As well-established as its buildings in Observatory, Johannesburg, the extensive grounds of Sacred Heart College creates the sensation of being in the countryside. Founded on St Marcellin’s belief that in order “to teach children, you must first love them, and love them all equally,” the school operates under the philosophy that clear guidance, fine education and a respect for diversity in a spirit of compassion, justice and dignity will lead to the successes and excellence pursued by the students at the school. Founded in 1889, the school has been run from these particular premises since 1924, and is proud of its rich history and diversity, catering for pre-primary to high school level pupils. The school is conveniently and centrally located, and is easily accessible from Houghton, Kensington, Bedfordview, Edenvale, Linksfield, Sandringham and areas within that vicinity. Upholding the Catholic values upon which the school was founded, pastoral care continues to be one of the main areas of focus for the school. As faith forms such an integral part of the school community, the development of personal faith within each individual and the concurrent respect that this instills for the beliefs of others is expounded, leading to a culture of students with a deep sense of personal integrity. The resultant holistic education encompasses a commitment to excellence and the development of reflective and life skills within each individual as part of the school community. The school operates under the ethos of learner-centred education, catering to each learner’s needs and abilities and embracing the recognition of differences with a sense of acceptance, without compromising excellence or virtue. Sacred Heart College offers a number of co-curricular activities, both athletic and cultural aimed at developing skills and values outside of the classroom. Inside the classroom, however, the highest level of education is available at the College by a competent and passionate specialist staff body. The art and drama departments continue to produce high quality works, and are vastly popular Matric subjects. In addition to this, the school and its pupils display an inherent commitment to their community service projects and outreach programmes, most notably the Three2Six School, run from Sacred Heart’s grounds every afternoon. As a part of Three2Six, refugee children are provided with transportation to the school in the afternoons and provided with a meal and offered academic and social schooling. It is believed that bringing these children into a positive school environment, and through the education offered, will assist them in reducing vulnerability and building aspirations in a non-violent environment. Through empowerment and a concentration on the growth of wisdom, the past pupils of Sacred Heart College have gone on to be successful in education, business and medical fields, as well as in music and drama. Sacred Heart creates a solid foundation, fortified by good values, creating the groundwork upon which its graduates can exploit their own potential and the opportunities that will be the basis of a successful career and personal life.
Lifestyle and Decor
