At home in the world
Welcome to Waterford International
Here, every child is at home.
At Waterford International, students are equipped to thrive anywhere in the world. Our mission is to inspire knowledge, character, and confidence so that every child can succeed wherever life takes them.
About
Waterford International (formerly British International Preparatory School) is an independent Cambridge school in Johannesburg, now entering an exciting new chapter under the ownership of ThriveEd. Designed with international families in mind, while warmly welcoming local families, we offer the stability, care, and world-class Cambridge curriculum that children from across the globe need to flourish.
Our full-day programme balances academic focus with enrichment and play, while small classes capped at 15 learners ensure that every student benefits from personal attention, encouragement, and challenge in a safe, supportive environment.
Growing with your child
Our high school launches in 2026 with the introduction of Grade 8, laying the foundation for a seamless learning pathway from the early years through to pre-university.
Where excellence is nurtured, and every family feels at home.
Cambridge curriculum
Delivered in its purest form, with the rigour and recognition that prepares learners for global success.
World-class facilities
From modern IT labs and well-resourced libraries to specialist spaces for sport, art, and performance, our campus is continually being upgraded to provide learners with everything they need to excel.
Small classes, personalised learning
No more than 15 learners per class, ensuring individual attention and meaningful teacher-student relationships.
A thriving co-curricular offering
A wide variety of sports, arts, and clubs nurture well-rounded learners and encourage talents beyond the classroom.
Qualified educators
Our teachers are highly qualified professionals who are committed to ongoing development and excellence in their practice.
A supportive international community
With families and students from around the world, Waterford International offers a welcoming environment where learners and parents quickly feel at home. This diversity creates a culturally rich atmosphere that nurtures respect, tolerance, and global citizenship.
Full-day programme
Our official school day runs from 08:30 to 16:00, with supervised care available both before and after school to support busy families. Morning care begins at 07:15 until classes start, while afternoon care continues until 17:00. Children follow structured schedules that balance academics, prep, activities, and play—ensuring a safe, stimulating, and well-rounded experience for every child.
Co-curriculars
Learners are encouraged to explore and grow their talents through a wide and ever-expanding co-curricular programme, including:
Sports
Swimming, Athletics, Cross-Country, Soccer, Netball
Clubs
Chess, Environmental Club
Creative & performing arts
Music, Art, Drama, Pottery
Specialist activities at additional fees
Judo, Ballet, Dance Mouse, Pottery
About ThriveEd
Waterford International forms part of ThriveEd, a fast-growing network of schools united by one bold purpose: delivering an education to thrive, for all. ThriveEd believes that an education to thrive is life-changing, equipping learners with the knowledge, skills, and character to succeed in every aspect of life.
While each school in the network is set up to uniquely serve its community, they are united in applying modern, highly effective educational practices.
Today, the ThriveEd network encompasses 10 schools, serving more than 9,000 learners and their families, with Waterford International carrying this vision forward in Johannesburg.
Executive Head
Dr. Garth Thompson brings over two decades of leadership experience in education, training, and school management, with a strong record of transforming schools and guiding them to sustained excellence. As principal of several independent schools and higher education institutions, he has built stable, high-performing teams, maintained world-class academic standards, and led schools through times of growth and change, including the transition to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also acted as Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson of the Association of Cambridge Educators Southern Africa, where he contributed to curriculum development and collaboration across schools.