Our world is changing very quickly – the rapid embedding of social media in our daily and business lives, and the developments seen in the AI field being good examples of this.
This means that we need to prepare our children for a future that will no doubt see a world changing in ever-faster ways.
“All this implies that education must evolve beyond the traditional,” comments Zeesy Deren, Director of Development on the board of Jewish International School Cape Town (JI). “Our educational philosophy focuses on nurturing independent thinkers, fostering exploration, and instilling confidence, all grounded in Torah values and guided by innovation. We offer a multi-sensory educational journey, designed around nature, curiosity and connection.”
This philosophy is evident at the school’s three campuses.
At Phyllis Jowell in Camps Bay, “Students learn through a Forest School model,” says Rav Gav Ziegler, the campus principal, “Nature becomes the classroom and learning is experiential, dynamic, and joyful. With Table Mountain as a backdrop and the Atlantic breeze in the air, children grow resilient, confident, and curious.”
“Discovery and creativity are encouraged at the Sinai Academy in Blouberg,” says Morah Candy Voss, the campus principal. “Every child is given the space to thrive at their own pace in a calm, nurturing environment. The school offers a Montessori and Reggio-inspired early years’ experience in a warm, nature-rich setting.”
Cape Town Torah High in Gardens, a high school, provides students with the opportunity to pursue the American matric programme – the only one of its kind in a South African Jewish school. Campus Principal Morah Sarah Hull says, “This globally recognised qualification opens doors to international universities, as well as allowing students to study at local universities, while maintaining a strong Torah foundation and meaningful Jewish identity.”
According to Zeesy, “Through our approach to learning, students are able to progress at their own pace, which works really well for all types of learners: those who need more time, as well as allowing the learner who wants to accelerate to take on additional courses or research topics they find particularly interesting.”
Across all campuses, JI is intentionally boutique, deeply nurturing, and proudly innovative. Zeesy explains that the schools offer intimate classes, personalised attention, and a strong sense of belonging. “Our goal beyond academic excellence is helping each child discover who they are and who they’re meant to become.”
Rabbi Avi Shlomo, JI Dean concludes, “The Jewish International offering is certainly something to consider for your child, whether your family already resides in Cape Town or if you’re considering a lifestyle move here from elsewhere. We’re more than a school. we’re a family.” ●
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