The Department
There are two experienced Accounting teachers at the Girls’ school. The department is well equipped with projectors and whiteboards, and the recommended textbooks by Catherine Coucom, who is instrumental in setting the IGCSE exam papers, and Accounting for Cambridge IGCSE by Austen, Gilchrist, and Hailstone.
Teaching
Cambridge IGCSE Accounting is a 2-year course in which students take the IGCSE exams at the end of the second year. The aims of the syllabus are to enable students to develop:
Course Structure
B Block
There are 8 lessons per 10-day cycle.
Lent Term – Accounts and Data
Trinity Term – Accounting procedures
Michaelmas Term – Financial Statements with year-end adjustments; Year-end Exams.
A Block
There are 8 lessons per 10 day cycle.
Lent Term – Financial Statements of different business entities
Trinity Term – Analysis and Interpretation of Data; Mock IGCSE Exams.
Michaelmas Term – Accounting Principles and Policies.
Rufaro Mtevera: Head of IT and Commercials.
The Department
The Biology department is comprised of five experienced, passionate, and dedicated teachers. Three of whom are full-time Science teachers. We have five laboratories, two preparatory rooms, and one well-stocked storeroom. Teachers have access to data projectors in each of the laboratories and the department is well equipped with the recommended textbooks. Practical work is at the centre of instruction and learning. The subject is very popular and offered to all girls in B block and we are proud to see a sizeable number of these girls achieving success at IGCSE.
Teaching
There are eight periods per cycle comprising one double and seven singles for extended Biology. Doubles in the cycle are devoted to practical tests. We also offer Core Biology to the challenged girls. The girls in the Core Biology have a total of twelve periods per cycle, four of them are extra Biology lessons. To give the requisite grounding in the scientific method, girls work through a practical handbook that gives them opportunities to develop lifelong skills of observation, measurement, recording, analysis, deduction, and evaluation. We also encourage learners to devise and plan investigations, drawing on their knowledge and understanding, analyse and interpret data to draw conclusions. Learners get to investigate the way things work and we hope the knowledge gained will be of benefit to mankind.
Interaction with the content enables our learners to acquire knowledge and develop positive attitudes toward the environment and an understanding that we can make the best out of our environment without damaging it. Some of our themes use Biology to promote healthy living. We teach our girls the internationally acclaimed Cambridge IGCSE status. This enables them to earn internationally recognised qualifications that will help them prepare for A level Biology or life after school
Course Structure
B Block
Lent Term – Classification, Cells, Enzymes and Nutrients
Trinity Term – Plant and Animal nutrition, Plant transport
Michaelmas Term – Human transport, Respiration, Gas exchange
A Block
Lent Term – Coordination and Response, Drugs , Reproduction
Trinity Term – Inheritance and Ecology
Michaelmas Term – Revision for exams
Norma Mafukidze: Head Science Department
The Department
Chemistry is taught in labs 2 and 3 respectively. Two teachers are involved in the teaching of Chemistry at Peterhouse. The teachers are very dedicated to their work and are always willing to assist pupils to increase their understanding of the concepts studied. The department is well equipped with chemicals, apparatus, an excellent large wall periodic table for each class and textbooks that are relevant to their syllabus and this enhances the learning of this subject.
Teaching
There are eight lessons per cycle, one double and six single lessons. Chemistry is a practical subject and experiments are central to the teaching of the subject. These are done as demonstrations, or by the pupils themselves working individually or in a small group. At the end of the two years, our pupils sit for IGCSE Chemistry (0620).
At the end of the two years, the candidates should have the following attributes:
Course Outline
B Block
Lent Term – Principles of Chemistry, Matter, Experimental Techniques, and bonding, stoichiometry
Trinity Term –Acids and Bases, Oxides, salts, identification of ions, Redox reactions Reactivity series, Extraction of metals
Michaelmas Term – Electrolysis, Energetics, and rates of reactions
A Block
Lent Term – Reversible reactions, Air and water, Sulphur, Carbonates, Separating and mixing, Organic Chemistry
Trinity Term –Synthetic and natural polymers
Michaelmas Term – Revision
Norma Mafukidze: Head of Science
The Department
The Department is staffed by six dedicated teachers, all of whom bring their own individual skills and interests together to ensure that the subject is taught effectively.
CHECKPOINT ENGLISH – D & C BLOCK
The junior classes are streamed into 4 sets based on the Access Reading Tests and Writing assignments, taken in their first week at high school.
In D Block, which is their first year in high school, we consolidate and extend the girls’ knowledge about language; we seek to develop and refine their literacy skills and to introduce them to the study of Literature by analysing a variety of genres, of the teacher’s choice and appropriate for the set.
The department works to develop the pupil’s accuracy in spelling and vocabulary and spends a significant amount of time on advanced grammar. The skills taught in D Block provide a foundation for the IGCSE syllabus. In addition, the girls are encouraged to develop their skills in listening and speaking in activities such as debating, class presentations, and small-group discussions. The girls are encouraged to write creatively, and whilst doing so implement the grammar and vocabulary learnt with each piece of work. As they grow in confidence, they are encouraged to enter the National Allied Arts Literary Competition in the Trinity Term and can enter their work into the Standard Cover to Cover Essay Writing Competition.
In C Block, the girls are taught how to write in a range of styles appropriate for a range of audiences – from persuasive to analytical writing. Once again, the skills they have been taught in D Block are tested with each writing assignment. Shakespeare is introduced halfway through the year, so they have a sound understanding of the playwright and the nature of his work. This is to provide them with a foundation for the IGCSE English Literature syllabus.
IGCSE – B & A BLOCK
The B Block classes are set according to the year-end results at C Block. All of the classes prepare the girls to earn two qualifications – IGCSE English Language and English Literature.
The English Language syllabus extends upon their writing skills for various purposes and forms – including, but not limited to, summary writing, analysis, and persuasion. There is an opportunity to write creatively, therefore, they are encouraged to expand on their vocabulary, and perfect their use of grammatical structures and use of imagery by reading as widely as possible as this expands on their sphere of experiences.
The IGCSE English Literature syllabus complements the English Language syllabus, by providing a variety of texts which the girls study. The syllabus covers a range of genres and these have to be read and analysed by the pupil – drama, prose and poetry. Through our pupil-centred approach, pupils learn to develop independent opinions on texts, identify themes and examine the effectiveness of linguistic devices. An important skill learnt through literature is an appreciation of different cultures and beliefs, understanding and accepting different characters, and they learn to appreciate who and what they are through reading about people and situations that are far worse than their own.
Sian Rae: Head of English Departme
The Department
The French department has three very dedicated teachers. The staff who teach in the Department are very enthusiastic about their subject, and they encourage girls to develop an interest in the language and to use it around them and in the wider world. To support this vision, we have an annual French soirée and our weekly French club sessions, visits to French cafés when we have the opportunity, and French tours to get our girls immersed into the French environment.
Teaching
D & C BLOCK
French is usually a completely new subject at D Block level, so much is introductory. It is important to introduce the reading, writing, oral, and listening skills earlier on so that at IGCSE level, this foundation is solid. Their end-of-year exam at C Block covers all these skills. Our junior end’s participation in the French tour and French soirée is critical in ensuring that solid foundation. There is also an emphasis on Vocabulary, Grammar, Basic speaking skills (introductions, preferences, likes/dislikes etc), Verbs (present, imperfect and perfect tenses)
These are all necessary, especially for DELF preparations for the C Block who will also need to have some knowledge of these skills when they go on French tour.
A & B BLOCK
There are eight lessons per two-week cycle in both B and A Block. Most of the lessons are normally taken as single but we have 1 double lesson per cycle which is used for oral work.
The overall aim of the department at this level is to develop the ability to use French effectively for purposes of practical communication.
COURSE OUTLINE
It is difficult to list topics term by term, as there is much overlap and combination of skills and learning, but during the two years, the pupils develop in the following areas.
Besides the IGCSE exam which is taken after two years, pupils also write the DELF diploma. This is a diploma in French, which is offered by the Ministry of Education in France and is administered here by the Alliance Francaise in Harare. It assesses the pupil’s level of and competence in French. The diploma is started in C Block, where they sit for the A1 module. Pupils usually sit for the A2 module in A/B Block, or they may finish it in A level or they may choose to continue with the diploma after school. We are encouraging our A Block to sit for their B1 in A Block so that they can do their B2, C1 and C2 in Vth and VIth form.
V T Mukuruva : Head of French Department
The Department
The Geography Department has two full-time teachers, plus one who also spends part of their time teaching in another department. We have a suite of two dedicated classrooms. The teachers have access to data projectors. The staff are enthusiastic about their subject, and we encourage girls to develop an interest in the Natural and Built environments around them and in the wider world.
Teaching
In D and C Block there are five lessons per ten-day cycle, all taken as singles rather than double lessons. Geography is a content subject, as well as a practical one, so we try to keep the girls interested by making their lessons as varied as possible.
Over the two years, our pupils learn about the Geography of their own country, both the Physical and the Human aspects. We also begin to look regionally and globally, by looking at aspects of Geography. A lot of basic concepts are introduced at this level, including weather and climate (making use of our weather station), landforms, population, and settlement dynamics.
In addition to purely factual knowledge, Geography is a subject that teaches skills. Map reading is a skill that girls learn in their second year at Peterhouse Girls, and then build on as they move up the school.
Field work is also important, whether it is going out to draw a map of a part of the school, recording and observing elements of weather, looking at settlement patterns and visiting the Weather station. Tours to other countries are also organised as exposure and to market the subject to Junior forms.
By the time they reach the end of C Block, girls have acquired a good working knowledge of the world around them, and are well equipped to take the subject further up the school curriculum.
COURSE OUTLINE
D Block
Lent Term – What is Geography and the Solar System
Trinity Term – The geography of Zimbabwe, Rocks and Soils, The Hydrological Cycle and Rivers
Michaelmas Term – Weather and Climate
C Block
Lent Term – Map Reading
Trinity Term – Human Geography
Michaelmas Term – Human Geography and introduction of the structure of the Earth
GEOGRAPHY AT IGCSE LEVEL
Teaching
In B Block there are eight lessons per two-week cycle, taken as two double and four single lessons. Geography is a content subject, as well as a practical one, so we try to keep the girls interested by making their lessons as varied as possible, and often practical or fieldwork can be done in the double lessons. This teaches them some useful examination techniques by practising using the actual Cambridge Past Examination Papers. Visits to Gosho Park are organised as part of their practical and tours to other countries, as exposure to the real world, will be organised. At the end of two years, our pupils sit for IGCSE Geography (0460).
Successful Cambridge IGCSE Geography candidates develop lifelong skills, including:
At the end of the two-year course, our pupils are well equipped to study the subject at A level, but if they choose not to, then they will have acquired skills and knowledge that will be helpful to them for many years to come as they try to solve some of the problems the world is facing today such as food and water shortages, climate change and natural disasters.
Course Outline
B Block
Lent Term – Natural Environment- Earthquakes and Volcanoes, River Studies, Coasts
Trinity Term – Weather and Climate, Enquiry/Investigative skills
Michaelmas Term – Development and Resources
A Block
Lent Term – Population, Settlement, Agriculture
Trinity Term – Industry and Tourism, Revision
Michaelmas Term – Revision
S.R Mukucha: Head of Geography Department.
The Department
There are three members of staff in the History Department, two full-time teachers and one who also teaches in other departments. After A Block (IGCSE) the Fifth and Sixth Form girls go to Peterhouse Boys for lessons. We are constantly updating our resources, and endeavour to make the subject come alive, so that the pupils will want to continue it throughout their school career.
Teaching
In D Block there are five lessons per cycle. Our syllabus focuses on Africa, especially early Zimbabwean History. We aim to arouse interest and historical appreciation in the girls, as well as an awareness of the history of our country. The recall of facts and logical understanding is encouraged in our D Block, along with exposure to a variety of sources and the development of source analysis skills. Our trip to Great Zimbabwe is integral to a first-hand experience of our History.
In C Block, there are also five lessons per cycle. We look at various revolutions as a study of how cause and consequence are a crucial part of historical understanding and also serve as an important part of the IGSCE course. The Industrial Revolution allows the girls to understand how technological advances in the 1800s have influenced our way of life today. We also study the French and Russian Revolutions. We view this level as crucial in the preparatory stage of the IGCSE course and hence the study of WWI in the third term to provide adequate background knowledge for the first section of the IGCSE syllabus.
In A and B Blocks, there are eight lessons per cycle and the lessons are structured according to the IGCSE syllabus, ensuring it is finished in time for adequate revision and past paper practice to comprehensively prepare the girls for their exams. We issue a number of different textbooks including the two main ones, 20 Century World History by both Cantrell and Walsh as viewing slightly different versions of History is an important part of the course. The girls learn to analyse and evaluate a number of different kinds of sources, (important skills) as there is one paper which focuses only on sources. We also do Paper 3, the coursework essay, where they research, select, and produce a piece of extended writing, discussing significance in some detail on a given topic, to develop their research skills and the ability to work independently. This is excellent preparation for what is required at university level.
We aim to use a variety of media and internet facilities in all of our lessons, in all blocks, to engage the girls in the vast amounts of information available to us and the ability to differentiate between reliable and unreliable sources. We try to ensure that each class has a project in the school holidays, from C block onwards, in order to develop their research skills and the ability to work by themselves.
COURSE STRUCTURE
D Block
Lent Term – Introduction to African History, Ancient Egypt, Early Man
Trinity Term – Iron Age, Mutapa and Rozvi states
Michaelmas Term – Zulu and Ndebele States, Slave Trade
C Block
Lent Term – Industrial Revolution 1750 -1900
Trinity Term – French Revolution 1789, Russian Revolution 1917
Michaelmas Term – WWI 1914 – 1918 and start of Paris Peace Conference
B Block
Lent Term – Paris Peace Conference, League of Nations
Trinity Term – Germany Depth Study
Michaelmas Term – Collapse of International Peace by 1939, Early Cold War
A Block
Lent Term – Containment: Cuba, Korea, Vietnam, USSR’s control over Eastern Europe
Trinity Term – Revision. Mock examinations. Coursework Essay.
Michaelmas Term – Revision and Past Paper Practice
Head of History – Mrs H Nel
The Department
The department has two full-time teachers who, through their experience, are constantly looking for innovative ways of delivering lessons. There are two IT Laboratories and one technical staff who is responsible for maintenance and technical support. The IT labs are equipped with state-of-the-art computer equipment, overhead projectors, and whiteboards. There is also full broadband Internet access and pupils are allowed to access educational websites for learning purposes and download any valuable materials. Internet access is closely monitored using classroom management software, firewalls, and a reliable hotspot server. Personal printing is also allowed and is charged to the pupils’ accounts.
Teaching
D and C Block (Form 1 and 2)
As technology continues to shape every aspect of our lives, the department ensures that pupils are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge crucial for their future success and participation in the digital age. Thus, our curriculum is structured to provide pupils with a solid foundation for IGCSE Computer Science and ICT in addition to covering the digital essential skills drawn from the IGCSE ICT syllabus and the programming and problem-solving skills drawn from the IGCSE Computer Science syllabus.
The subject is compulsory for pupils in D Block and C Block but after two years they can either drop it or choose to study IGCSE ICT or Computer Science depending on their interest and ability.
D Block and C Block classes are allocated four lessons per ten-day cycle.
COURSE STRUCTURE
D Block
Lent Term –
Computer Hardware
Software
File Management
Word Processing: Formatting, page settings, images and tables
Trinity Term –
Spreadsheets: Sum, Functions – average, min, max, and formatting
Computer Networks
Health and physical Safety issues,
E-safety awareness
Introduction to coding
Michaelmas Term –
Presentations
Emerging Technologies: robotics, AI, VR, language translation
Information Security, Presentation Tools, Spreadsheets, and Internet/Email
Progress on coding
C Block
Lent Term –
Data representation – conversion binary, denary, addition
Word processing 2 – mail merge, advanced tables, house styles
Communication methods – web conferencing, sms, emails, electronic fax
Coding
Trinity Term:
Spreadsheets II:
Introduction to databases – key terms, data types, advantages over flat files, creating simple tables
Coding
Michaelmas Term:
Databases and Internet/Email
Emerging technologies
Databases continued
B Block and A Block (Form 3 and 4)
IGCSE Information Communication Technology (ICT) is offered as an optional subject. The ICT syllabus encourages learners to develop lifelong skills, which will be useful to them in their work across the curriculum and prepare them for future employment. They will develop an understanding of the implications of technology in society, including social, economic, and ethical uses and awareness of the ways ICT can help in home, learning, and work environments.
The syllabus combines theory concepts and practical concepts focusing on the ability to use common software applications to solve problems, including word processors, spreadsheets, databases, interactive presentation software, web browsers, and website design. Learners analyse, design, implement, test, and evaluate ICT systems, ensuring that they are fit for purpose.
Ownership of a laptop is highly recommended to enable students to develop practical skills and to access learning materials posted on Google Classroom in their spare time and during the holidays.
There are eight lessons per ten-day cycle for both B and A Block.
COURSE OUTLINE
B Block – Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
Lent Term:
Theory – Types and components of computer systems, Input and output devices, Storage devices and media and File Management.
Practical – Document production: Images, Styles, Layout and Proofing and Presentations.
Trinity Term:
Theory – The effects of using IT, Networks and the effects of using them and Safety and Security.
Practical – Spreadsheets, Graphs and Charts.
Michaelmas Term:
Theory – The systems life cycle and Communication.
Practical – Website authoring.
A Block
Lent Term:
Theory: ICT applications
Practical: Databases
Trinity Term:
Theory: ICT applications
Practical: Databases
Michaelmas Term –Revision
Rufaro Mtevera: Head of IT and Commercials.
The Department
There are five members in the Mathematics department, three of whom teach Mathematics full-time. They are all enthusiastic, innovative, and always willing to advance their skills of teaching the curricula offered by attending various Cambridge courses and web research. The use of technology has been effectively applied in the department owing to the flexibility of the teaching staff.
Teaching
Our classes are set according to the pupils’ mathematical ability. Setting tests are done in the first week of D Block. There are four sets in D and C Blocks and the sizes of the classes decrease as we get to the lower sets. This is to allow more teacher-pupil interaction for the slower learners and at the same time facilitate a much slower pace with emphasis on the reinforcement of the foundation concepts. The more able pupils in the top sets work a bit faster and are often challenged through extensive exercises and research.
The main aim is to provide a sound background for the IGCSE course and the department has adopted the Cambridge Checkpoint curriculum in D and C Blocks to this effect. This curriculum has a similar structure to the IGCSE course and it is hoped that the transition is made smoother. There are four main areas of teaching: Number; Algebra; Shape, Space and Measures; and Statistics and Probability. There are ten periods of teaching per cycle with at least one double period.
COURSE STRUCTURE
D Block
Lent Term – Number and Calculation, Fractions, Decimals and Percentages, Ratio and proportion, Measures
Trinity Term – Sequences, Algebraic Expressions, Equations and Formulae, Functions, Graphs, Geometry of shapes, Symmetry, Angle properties.
Michaelmas Term – Area, Perimeter and Volume, Transformations, Statistical Representation and Data Interpretation, Probability, Sets and Venn diagrams
C Block
Lent Term –
Number patterns; Integers; Decimals, Fractions and Percentages; Ratio and Proportion; Measures.
Trinity Term – Expressions and Functions; Equations and Formulae; Sequences; Functions and Graphs; Times and Rates of Change; Geometry.
Michaelmas Term – Area, Perimeter and Volume; Shapes and Mathematical Drawing; Planning, Collecting and Processing data; Data presentation and Interpretation; Probability; Transformations; Vectors and Matrices.
IGCSE
The Department
The world of mathematics education is forever changing. It is our hope, as the PHG Maths Department, that at IGCSE, the problem-solving approach associated with the use of technology will not only enhance the pupils’ understanding and appreciation of Mathematics but also its universal application. Our mission is to develop confident, innovative, and responsible mathematicians who are not only able to count, add, subtract or simply memorise the abstract concepts learnt but also able to apply skills learnt, in practical and real-life situations. The department has a wealth of knowledge in its staffing.
The aim is to motivate the more able girls and inspire them to study the subject further. It is now an established fact that a higher qualification in Mathematics allows for a vast choice of areas to study at tertiary level. There are three full-time Maths teachers three of whom also teach other subjects.
Teaching
Our classes are streamed according to ability, with more teaching time allocated to the lower sets. The aim is to allow reinforcement of foundation concepts at a much slower pace with the weaker sets and at the same time maintain an environment that keeps the pupils interested and ensures growth in confidence in their scope of mathematical ability. Our Maths teachers understand that pupils learn in different ways and thus they keep up with the best practices in maths education and regularly incorporate these into their instruction to help all of our students learn. They also understand that there may be multiple ways to solve problems and use those alternate strategies to help struggling students grasp difficult concepts. Our lessons engage students and hopefully help them feel confident in their mathematical abilities. As any experienced teacher knows, teaching focuses less on the content being taught than the students being taught, our department cares about their students. Therefore, our teachers offer students second chances when warranted and take time out of their own schedule to help students catch up. There are four time-tabled extra Maths sessions in the afternoons.
There are four sets in B and A Blocks, with the lower set being the smallest and having two hours more learning time. Sets 1, 2 and 3 do the Extended Syllabus while sets 4 and 5 will do the Core Syllabus. There are two exams papers for each course but the Extended papers are half an hour longer than the corresponding Core papers.
COURSE STRUCTURE – CORE MATHS
B Block
Lent Term – Number; Algebra 1(intro)
Trinity Term – Algebra 1 continued; Geometry
Michaelmas Term – Trigonometry and Mensuration, Coordinate Geometry
A Block
Lent Term – Algebra 2; Calculus.
Trinity Term – Vectors and Transformations; Statistics and Probability
Michaelmas Term – Revision
COURSE STRUCTURE – CORE MATHS
B Block
Lent Term – Number; Algebra 1
Trinity Term – Algebra 1 continued; Geometry;
Michaelmas Term – Trigonometry; Mensuration
A Block
Lent Term – Algebra 2; Vectors and Transformations
Trinity Term –Statistics and Probability; Revision
Michaelmas Term – Revision
Mrs N Chinodyaruswa: Head of Maths Department
The Department
The department is staffed by two well-qualified teachers with many years of experience in teaching Physical Education. They are both knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their subject and have played or coached sport at a high level.
Teaching
In B Block and A Block there are eight 40-minute lessons per two-week cycle. Practical work is incorporated into lesson time and augmented through the afternoon sports program.
All A Block students write the IGCSE Physical Education examination in the May/June exam period.
By following the course, the girls will be able to develop an understanding of effective and safe physical performance and to appreciate the necessity for a sound understanding of the principles and practices that underpin improved performance, better health, and well-being. They will also study exercise and training, safety aspects and risk assessment, and applied anatomy and physiology.
COURSE OUTLINE
The emphasis of the course is on practical skills and the coursework component carries an examination weighting of 60%. The students participate in a wide range of sporting activities, and submit their four top assessments to Cambridge. The final 40% is assessed through a written examination which completes the girls overall grade.
The theoretical topics that will be covered in conjunction with the practical component are as follows:
B Block
Lent Term – Health and Fitness, Skill in Sport and The Skeletal System
Trinity Term – The Skeletal System (cont.), The Muscular System and Fitness Testing
Michaelmas Term – The Heart, The Respiratory System and Principles of Training
A Block
Lent Term – Diet, Drugs, Hygiene, Prevention and Treatment of Sports Injuries and Sport in Society.
Trinity Term – IGCSE examination is written in May.
Stacy Bhana : Head of Physical Education Department
The Department
The Physics Department has three teachers, who also teach Biology or Mathematics as their other subject. The subject is taught in labs 4 and 5 respectively. The department is equipped with apparatus which enables learner-centered teaching and learning to take place. The teaching staff is enthusiastic and passionate, and they impart lifelong problem-solving skills as well as develop an inquisitive mindset within our learners so that they are able to lead society in the quest to adapt and overcome the ever-changing world.
Teaching
In both A and B Block, they have eight lessons per two-week cycle, generally taken as two doubles and four single lessons.
Physics is a hands-on Practical subject that seeks to explain the properties of Matter and Energy and the relationships between the two, and as learners progress from B Block to A Block they are taught and exposed to the instruments that are used to make such deductions as well as the basic behaviour of materials such as light, sound and matter. Lessons are structured into Theory, Practical, and Demonstration lessons. At the end of A Block our learners sit for IGCSE Physics which is broken down into three assessment components namely, Knowledge with understanding, Handling information and problem solving, and Experimental skills and investigation.
Successful Cambridge IGCSE Physics candidates gain lifelong skills including:
COURSE OUTLINE
B Block
Lent Term – Measurement, Properties of waves, light and sound
Trinity Term – Electricity and Magnetism
Michaelmas Term – Thermal Physics
A Block
Lent Term – Energy, work and power, Forces
Trinity Term – Atomic Physics
Michaelmas Term – Revision
Norma Mafukidze: Head of Science
The Department
The Shona Department has two teachers, who share their time between Shona and Religious Studies. We have now managed to stock our Department with the current textbooks for our learners. The staff who teach in the Department are enthusiastic about their subject. We emphasise the importance of Shona as a subject just like any other language subject.
Teaching
The subject is only offered at D and C block for both L1 and L2 speakers. There are three lessons per cycle, generally taken as single lessons which are 40 minutes long. Shona is a content subject, as well as a practical one, so we try to keep the girls interested by making their lessons as varied as possible, we try to take them on field trips to places relating to the syllabus such as Seke rural village where girls get to know what surrounds a Shona Homestead. There are no external exams at the end of the two-year course but the L2 girls will have an oral and written exam at the end of year exams.
At the end of the two year course, girls should have mastered the following:
COURSE STRUCTURE
D Block L1 – Language, grammar, culture, Literature
D Block L2 – Language, grammar, culture, oral
C Block L1 – Language, grammar, culture, literature
C Block L2 – Language, grammar, culture, oral, Field Trips
Mrs G. Fantiso: Head of Department
The Department
The Religious Studies department is staffed by two teachers, who also teach elsewhere in the curriculum. Over the past few years, the teaching of the subject has been offered to B to A Block pupils. This is an option subject taught over two years.
Teaching
There are 8 periods per 10-day cycle generally taken as two double periods and four singles. At IGCSE, the subject matter is a comparative study of two out of three religions, Christianity, Judaism, and the Islamic faith. Two religions are covered in detail in order to prepare our pupils for their final examination. We feel that in today’s world, an understanding of other people’s religious beliefs can only help to foster international understanding and cooperation between the peoples of the world. The same teacher will take the class through the two years and will have a better understanding of the pupils and their needs before they sit for their examination.
At the end of the course, candidates should be able to:
COURSE OUTLINE
B Block
Lent Term – Christianity (Worship, Sacred Writings, Festivals)
Trinity Term – Fasts, Pilgrimage / Historical places, Rites of passage, Religion and the family
Michaelmas Term – Religion and Social Action, Introduction to Islam, Worship
A Block
Lent Term – Islam (The Quran and the Hadith, The Hajj, Ramadan, Fasts) Rites of Passage
Trinity Term – Religion and the Family, Judaism (Worship, Sacred Writings, Festivals and Fasts)
Michaelmas Term – Pilgrimage/Historic places, Rites of passage and Religion and the family
Mrs G. Fantiso: Head of Department
The Department
Junior Science has four teachers and two efficient technicians to support the practical side of our teaching. The four teachers also teach other science subjects as follows: three teach Biology and one teaches Chemistry and Mathematics. These teachers are all dedicated and enthusiastic about their subject, and they encourage girls to develop an interest in the subject and to apply it around them and in the wider world.
We have three well-resourced labs to give learners a solid grounding in science skills.
Teaching
D Block has 9 periods in a cycle and a similar setup in C Block. The course is dedicated to the acquisition and nurturing of lifelong science skills such as observation, measurement, recording of results, either in table form or drawing, processing of results in the form of graphs, analysis of results, making deductions from results, evaluating methods used and making conclusions which are informed by evidence. Through these experiences, our girls develop knowledge and understanding of basic scientific concepts and principles as well as the ability to handle information and solve problems. Pupils develop attitudes relevant to the study of science such as accuracy, inventiveness, inquiry and objectivity. Experiences also promote awareness of the benefits and detrimental effects of science.
COURSE STRUCTURE
D Block
Lent Term – Use of apparatus, measurements and presentation of data
Trinity Term –Classification of Organisms, Cell Structure and Organisation,Animal Nutrition and Plant Nutrition
Michaelmas Term –, kinetic theory of matter, Energy, Fuels Atoms, elements, compounds and mixtures/Periodic Table and Acids and Bases
C Block
Lent Term – Chemical reactions, Rates of Reactions, Combustion and Global warming,(Extension: Metal Reactivity Series,Soap Making)
Trinity Term – Force, reproduction in plants and animals
Michaelmas Term – Electricity, Introduction to IGCSE Biology: Classification
Norma Mafukidze: Head of Science Department
The Department
There are two highly experienced teachers in the Travel and Tourism Department. We have well-equipped classrooms and up-to-date text books that enable our pupils to stay abreast with the changes in the outside Tourism Industry. The teachers who teach in the Department are enthusiastic about the subject. The girls are encouraged to develop an interest in global issues that affect tourism, the built and natural environments and destinations around them and the wider world. In B and A Blocks the changing world around us becomes important, as our pupils are mature enough to understand and appreciate that our world is not a static place. Sustainable Tourism which is the current industry trend is the underlying theme for all the topics covered. This makes the subject current and very relevant in this dynamic world.
Teaching
Travel and Tourism is a content subject, as well as a practical one, so we try to keep the girls interested by making their lessons as varied as possible, we try to take them on field trips to places relating to the syllabus such as Travel agencies in Harare, hotels and restaurants and to the airport in A Block. At the end of two years, our pupils sit IGCSE Travel and Tourism (0471).
Successful Cambridge IGCSE Travel and Tourism candidates develop lifelong skills, including:
At the end of the two year course, our pupils are well equipped to study the subject to A level, but if they choose not to, then they have acquired skills and knowledge that will be helpful to them for many years to come.
COURSE OUTLINE
B Block
Lent term – The Travel and Tourism Industry
Trinity Term – Global Perspectives
Michaelmas Term – Organisations in the Travel Industry
A Block
Lent Term – Customer Service
Trinity Term – Destination Marketing
Rufaro Mtevera: Head of IT and Commercials.
The Department
The world has automatically become business. So it’s important that pupils learn and start appreciating business aspects that help them to grow in their careers, irrespective of the career they will embark on. In one way or another, they will end up in business or dealing with business related issues. Mathematics is learnt so that pupils can calculate numbers, and English and other languages are taught so that they can communicate. Business concepts are also needed so that they can have an appreciation of the business workings of the world. By its nature, Business Studies prepares pupils to respond and act professionally which is a critical element needed in all areas in academic and non-academic areas. Both interpersonal and intrapersonal communication is taught.
At IGCSE an introduction is given on the basics of financial literacy, organisational structure, marketing and promotion and key elements of people in business and the things that influence their behaviour in an organisation. It sounds exciting, but not as easy as it sounds. So like any other subject, effort is needed to get the top grades.
COURSE OUTLINE
B Block
Lent term – Business Activity
Trinity Term – People in Business
Michaelmas Term – Marketing
A Block
Lent Term – Operations Management + External Influences
Trinity Term – Financial Management
Rufaro Mtevera: Head of IT and Commercials.
The Department
The world is fast changing, and we keep seeing new innovations in programming, and process automation in industry, business, and even in our homes! There are a lot of emerging and fast-growing technologies such as AI, Robotics, Cryptography and many others. Computer Science provides students with foundational computational thinking and programming skills, and an appreciation of automated systems and emerging technologies. The pupils learn the basic principles of problem-solving as they create computer-based solutions using algorithms and a high-level language – we are currently using VB.Net for programming solutions.
Be assured that at the end of the IGCSE Computer Science course pupils will be more:
The combination of knowledge and skills in Cambridge IGCSE Computer Science gives learners a solid foundation for AS & A Level Computer Science.
In both B and A Block there are eight lessons per ten-day cycle.
COURSE OUTLINE
B Block
Lent Term:
Computer Systems: Data Representation and Data transmission
Algorithms, Programming and Logic: Boolean Logic
Trinity Term:
Computer Systems: Hardware and Software
Algorithms, Programming and Logic: Algorithm design & Problem Solving and Programming
Michaelmas Term:
Computer Systems: Internet and its Uses
Algorithms, Programming and Logic: Algorithm design & Problem Solving and Programming
A Block
Lent Term:
Computer Systems: Internet and its uses
Algorithms, Programming and Logic: Databases
Trinity Term:
Computer Systems: Automated and emerging technologies
Algorithms, Programming and Logic: Databases and Programming
Michaelmas Term – Revision
Rufaro Mtevera: Head of IT and Commercials
There is one Food and Nutrition teacher with a teaching degree specialising in Food and Nutrition.
The subject is taught in a newly designed kitchen with 12 fully equipped kitchen areas with granite
countertops and up to date equipment.
In the junior end of the school. Classes are taught to mixed ability groups, over a six month course,
three double periods are allocated over a two week cycle.
Theory
D and C Block work builds up to form a base for the IGCSE course as well as give the girls a
foundation for healthy eating for life.
D Block
Introduction to Nutrition, main food groups, functions and sources.
Analysis of meals from what they have eaten for 2 days.
Meals for Toddlers, nutrition and meal planning, advertising.
Packaging and picnic foods. Functions of packaging
Meals for celebrations, party planning for 8 yr olds.
Eating disorders – Anorexia, Bulimia and Obesity.
Practical:
This is centre driven but a basic baking course during the two, six month time slots in D and C Block
is undertaken.
Rock cakes, Chocolate biscuits, Cinnamon rolls, Muffins, Short biscuits, Jam buns, Breakfast – made,
served and eaten, which allows for table laying and flower arrangements.
C Block
Theory
Continuation of Nutrition: Detailed look at individual Vitamins and Minerals, functions and sources.
Meal Planning continued: Vulnerable groups, Teenagers, the Elderly, Sport nutrition, Celiacs and
Diabetics. Nutritional needs, associated issues, menu planning for one day for each group showing
vulnerable nutrients.
Protein foods: Eggs, Fish, Milk, Cheese, Meat. Nutrition, structure, uses, storage. Practical:
Pastry making, shortcrust. Lattice tart, Sausage rolls, Cornish pasties. Bread cooking: Plaited loaf,
shaped rolls, pizza. Cake making: Banana muffins
IGCSE
This is syllabus is taken from the IGCSE Cambridge course. The course covers two years of education
and can be taught in any order. Eight periods are taught over a two week cycle which tend to be
double periods.
B BLOCK
Theory
Nutrition.
Protein, Fats, Carbohydrate, chemical structure, the effect of heat on each nutrient.
Vitamin B12, Sodium, Iron, Chlorine. Notes added to C Block work.
Fibre: Insoluble and soluble, related health benefits and diseases.
Protein foods: Added to C Block work. The effect of heat on each protein food.
Cereal food that provide protein.
Preparation for practical examination: Time plans, use of past examination papers.
Cereals: staple foods and milling of wheat.
Vegetables, salads: Classification, uses and nutritional value.
Practical:
Flaky pastry – various dishes showing use of. Fish cakes, Macaroni cheese cutlets, Scotch eggs,
Savoury macaroni, Toad-in-the-hole, Soups. Swiss roll, Upside down pudding, Steamed pudding,
Eve’s pudding, Banana custard.
A BLOCK
Theory
Flour mixtures: Pastries, cakes, batters, scones, bread, puddings – function of ingredients, methods
of making, effect of heat on ingredients.
Preservation: Reasons for, types of preservation, scientific principles involved.
Raising agents: Function, classification, how they work.
Sauces: Classifications, uses in the diet, nutritional value, detailed methods of making and reasons
why.
Stocks and soups Classifications, uses in the diet, nutritional value.
Food poisoning: Most common causes and symptoms.
Hygiene, kitchen safety, first aid: Build on good practice through practical work.
Kitchen planning. From sinks to whole layout, ergonomics and choices of materials.
Continue revision of Time plans for practical examination.
Revision of B Block work with tests to ensure last year’s work is not forgotten.
Practical:
Picnic foods, Potato salad, 3 bean salad, Coleslaw, salads and dressings.
Lemon meringue pie, Zambezi mud pie, Milk tart. Use of gelatine, Lemon soufflé, Cheesecake, Jelly,
Fruit salad.
Sweet doughs: Swedish tea rings, Chelsea buns, Hot cross buns.
Practical work questions from the IGCSE Paper 2 are given and practical dishes are chosen by the
girls; Time plans are adhered to as much as possible. It helps the girls to see their practical timings in
real time.
Revision of skills from C Block or any skills that need remedial help.
The number of dishes that can be completed in a double period increases as the IGCSE gets nearer.
Friday afternoon is used to go through 3 dishes, back to back, or as full a practical as possible. It is a
club, but there is an unwritten expectation that the A Block girls taking Food and Nutrition will join it
in Trinity term.
Head of Department – K.R. Barrie B.Ed
The department has one dedicated teacher. There are two rooms, one for drawing and planning and a well-equipped workshop.
D and C Block
At the junior level Design and Technology is taught as a series of modules that are designed to take the pupil through the basic skills needed in design activities. The subject is compulsory for pupils in D and C Blocks but after two years they can either drop it or choose to continue with the subject as one of their IGCSE choices.
In the D and C Blocks pupils are allocated three double lessons per cycle for one and half terms per academic year. Pupils are introduced to designing as an activity with a bias towards practical work. Pupils will start with a Graphic Communication module focusing on both freehand and the use of drawing instruments to construct basic 2D, 3D views including rendered views of simple objects. Basic 2D CAD drawing will also be taught.
Pupils will also engage in practical-based modules on working with woods, metals, and plastics and one involving Systems and Control. The Systems and Control module will introduce pupils to basic terminology and practice involving Structural and Mechanical design.
Later, they extend their ability to communicate through drawing to include the discipline of preparing orthographic views in working drawings.
The grounding experience over the two years covers all the basic knowledge and practical skills to prepare pupils to extend themselves within their focus areas at IGCSE
IGCSE
The subject aims to impart practical skills to pupils and make them aware of design as a human activity that has an impact on society and the environment.
Skills are developed in Graphic Communication, Product design or Systems and Control. They will have the opportunity to extend their knowledge of the subject, work with a variety of materials and experience new techniques for production in the workshops. Topics pertaining to the Design Process, Workshop practice, Drawing systems and Technology related to structures, mechanisms and electronic control will be covered.
Much of the A Block year is spent on various aspects of coursework design and realisation. Coursework portfolios and testing of the final products is done early in the third term in order to pave the way for revision.
Post IGCSE
On completion of the course pupils can take Design and Technology at both AS and A Level subject in combination with Mathematics, Physics and Geography. The subject has also proved to be handy to students wishing to pursue a career in technology fields.
Karen Barrie, Head of Practical Department
This provides learners with the ability to use a broad range of ICT skills and encourages
knowledge and understanding of the development of ICT systems, networks and their safe
use. They will learn to understand the rapid change of ICT in a technology-based world and
the impact ICT has on the world. Learners in a modern ICT-based world need to have the
ability to gather, process and manipulate data; this course helps learners to fulfil this.
The pupils will cover the following topics:
Theory
1 Types and components of computer
systems
2 Input and output devices
3 Storage devices and media
4 Networks and the effects of using them
5 The effects of using IT
6 ICT applications
7 The systems life cycle
8 Safety and security
9 Audience
10 Communication
Practical
11 File management
12 Images
13 Layout
14 Styles
15 Proofing
16 Graphs and charts
17 Document production
18 Databases
19 Presentations
20 Spreadsheets
21 Website authoring
The Department
The department is staffed by two full-time qualified teachers who both studied Art at Rhodes University. While our Head of Department has many years of teaching experience in traditional media, our junior teacher is an IT specialist and brings with her knowledge of digital media and photography. The combination of these skills enhances what we are able to offer to our pupils so that they are keeping abreast of current trends. The two studios where art is taught are well equipped and girls who don’t necessarily do Art for IGCSE and are interested in Photography and Digital Art are able to attend clubs in the afternoon sessions.
COURSE OUTLINE
D and C Block
In D Block the Elements of Art and Art terminology are introduced as a foundation course. Different media are also introduced and while projects are skills-based, free expression is also encouraged. There is a strong emphasis on drawing.
In C Block, the skills learned in D block are extended with more challenging projects in preparation for those choosing to continue with Art. Art terminology and an introduction to Artists and movements are incorporated into the course. Development of drawing skills and working with different media are an ongoing practice at this level.
B Block
Lent Term – Natural forms – drawing from life. The emphasis is on drawing this term which is then taken into different media, like painting, printmaking, monotypes and mixed media.
Trinity Term – Portraiture – how to draw the face. The emphasis of this term is on painting and drawings based on photographs. This culminates in a 4-hour practical examination of an A3 portrait. Exposure to working on a larger scale (A2) where pupils are encouraged to work on their own choice of subject matter. These works are then selected for the NIAA exhibition.
Michaelmas – The IGCSE coursework starts this term. Themes are selected and studies based on an artist of their choice are investigated. Sketches and artworks related to the theme are produced for Paper 1 Coursework and this culminates in a 4-hour examination.
A Block
The emphasis of the Art course in A Block is on developing practical skills and research on artists which culminate in two portfolios of Coursework and a final artwork. Paper 1 – Coursework ( 8 sides of A2) related to a topic of their choice and a final A2 Artwork. This is 50% of the Art mark. The Cambridge Practical Examination is Paper 2 and pupils have to select and respond to a topic given by Cambridge. The Paper 2 Coursework is (4 sides of A2) and a final 8-hour Art exam is done under exam conditions. This is 50% of the final Art mark.
Roxandra Dardagan Britz : Head of Art
Music plays a very important role at PHG due to its many benefits in positively impacting children’s academic performance, assisting in the development of social skills, and providing an outlet for creativity that is crucial to children’s development. At PHG, learners are taught music as an academic subject from form 1 to IGCSE. In addition, learners take part in music extracurricular activities such as choir, orchestra, jazz band, wind band and Marimba. We also have experienced and qualified teachers taking one-on-one lessons in various instruments such as guitar, piano, drums, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, Scottish pipe and drums, and orchestral string instruments.
PHG is a centre for the London College of Music (LCM), the only international music examination body in Zimbabwe currently. Our students take the LCM exams in different instruments and grade twice a year.
Our musical facilities are of a very high standard with a beautiful music centre that houses a beautiful grand piano, five practice rooms; each with a working acoustic piano, and a drum and marimba room.
Music in the classroom
Music is compulsory in D and C Block as a practical subject. Here, learners are introduced to basic music skills such as note reading, rhythm, music listening and performance.
In B Block, students who choose music for their IGCSE study the IGCSE Music (0410) syllabus. With this syllabus, learners take three compulsory components; music listening, composition and performance. Through a wide range of tasks, students learn about many aspects of music and styles. This course also prepares learners to continue their studies into A Level Music and IB, and as an excellent Arts subject, it teaches learners disciplines and skills favoured by modern employers and universities.
Milupi Imbula: Head of Music