Where the journey begins
Known affectionately as Scrummies, the Pre-Primary School of St Charles College in Pietermaritzburg is where boys as young as three take their first steps into the St Charles College journey.
These early years are not something to rush. They are a time for play, imagination, discovery and gentle guidance, where boys begin to grow in confidence, curiosity and belonging.
Through nurturing relationships, creative exploration, Christian foundations and age-appropriate learning, Scrummies gives boys a joyful and secure start to school life.
Space to run, build, explore and imagine
Outdoor play is an essential part of the Scrummies experience.
Boys enjoy open grass areas, shaded spaces, mature trees and the Natural Playpark, designed for movement, adventure and imagination. They roll, run, slide, zip, bike, dig, build forts and invent new adventures every day.
Beyond the Scrummies campus, boys also enjoy opportunities to explore the wider St Charles College grounds, including fields, pathways, sporting facilities and shared College spaces. These experiences encourage curiosity, confidence and a sense of belonging within the wider College community.
At Scrummies, play is not a break from learning. It is one of the most important ways boys learn.
Play is where learning begins
Young boys learn best when they are engaged, active and curious.
At Scrummies, learning is hands-on, playful and age appropriate. Through close relationships, careful observation and gentle encouragement, teachers help boys feel safe, known and confident as they begin their school journey.
Cambridge Early Years forms part of the Pre-Primary curriculum, supporting early learning through an internationally recognised framework designed for young children.
In Year 000 and Year 0, boys develop early reading, writing, numeracy, social and emotional foundations through practical activities, play and guided discovery.
By the end of Year 0, they are ready for a confident transition into Junior Primary.
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In Year 000, boys begin developing pre-reading and pre-writing skills through fun, practical activities. In Year 0, these foundations grow stronger as boys gain confidence, curiosity and readiness for the next stage of school.
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Numeracy is introduced through concrete, practical activities that help boys explore and understand numbers. The Maths approach follows the Singapore Maths programme, helping boys build confidence and competence in problem-solving from the beginning.
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Alongside academic development, boys learn empathy, cooperation, emotional awareness and the confidence to participate. They begin to understand how to share, listen, take turns, manage feelings and form friendships.
A joyful start to sport
At Scrummies, sport begins with movement, confidence and joy.
Rather than rushing boys into formal sporting pressure too early, the focus is on developing movement skills that naturally support sporting ability later on. Playball lessons form part of the weekly school day, helping boys build coordination, confidence and body awareness.
On warm days, boys enjoy their own 1m-deep swimming pool, where they build water confidence in a familiar and age-appropriate environment. Year 0 boys are also introduced to a variety of sporting codes throughout the year in a fun and supportive way.
This is where boys begin to develop confidence, coordination and a lifelong love of sport.
Imagination brought to life
Creativity is part of everyday life at Scrummies.
Through drama, music, storytelling, play and creative activities, boys are encouraged to use their imagination, express themselves and grow in confidence.
At this stage, expression matters as much as achievement.
Supporting boys and families
Scrummies offers convenient, caring after-care from Monday to Friday until 5pm. Within a secure facility, teachers and assistants provide close supervision, helping boys feel safe and supported after class.
During school holidays, holiday care camps support working parents while giving boys more time to play, explore and enjoy creative activities with friends.
This gives families practical support while keeping boys within a familiar, caring environment.
Begin the journey
Come and experience Scrummies, where boys take their first steps into the St Charles College journey with confidence, care and joy.