Why The Daniel Academy?

Daniel and his friends were young leaders in a foreign land. They chose courage, wisdom, and integrity in the midst of luxury and temptation—and their influence shaped nations.
At The Daniel Academy, we cultivate the same qualities in today’s youth:

  • Leadership and loyalty

  • Tenacity and resilience

  • Respect and integrity

  • Stewardship of the world we live in

Our students learn not only how to excel academically, but how to lead with purpose and contribute positively to their communities.

Our Curriculum Pathway

🌟 Foundation Phase (Grades 1–3)

  • Montessori-based learning

  • Charlotte Mason approach (character, habits, love of learning)

  • Critical thinking and independence

🌟 Intermediate Phase (Grades 4–6/7)

  • Blended South African and International curricula (IXL)

  • Classic yet innovative learning methods

🌟 Senior Phase (Grades 7–9)

  • Preparation for international school-leaving certificates

  • Introduction to SAQA (NQF Level 2) options in:

    • Business & Finance

    • Agriculture

    • Health

    • Education

🌟 LIVE, LEARN, LEAD College Phase  1 (Grade 10–NQF 4 / GED)

  • SAQA qualifications (NQF 3–4)

  • USA GED (Matric equivalent, recognised in 85+ countries)

  • Career-focused pathways in:

    • Business Consulting

    • Education & Early Childhood Development

    • Tourism & Hospitality

    • Eco-Ranger & Sustainability

    • Emergency Medicine

    • Health & Wellness

    • Project Management

    • Agriculture & Food Production

🎯 Every student completes an aptitude test to discover their passion, purpose, and strengths.

🌟 LIVE, LEARN, LEAD College Phase 2 (beyond NQF 4 / GED or post Matric)

NQF levels 5,6,7,8 – certificates and degrees

  • Sample of Career-focused pathways in more detail or other subjects of your choice to develop your own combination of interests:

 

 

Beyond the Classroom

  • Whole-food meals daily (no packed lunches required)

  • Food & gardening: students learn to grow, prepare, and enjoy natural food

  • Life skills: budgeting, maintenance, first aid, natural health, business startups

  • Sustainability: solar energy, recycling, permaculture, eco-friendly living

  • Physical activity: tennis, hiking, swimming, netball, basketball, cycling

  • Creative arts: drama, art, music, poetry, literature, nature journals

  • Languages: English & Afrikaans (fun and practical)

Our Atmosphere

We create a safe, uplifting environment built on:

  • Mutual respect & kindness

  • Love of learning

  • Freedom from comparison and competition

  • Joy in both delight and struggle as part of growth

Practical Information

  • Class size: max 16–20 learners

  • School hours: 08h00 – 14h00, aftercare available

  • Start date: January 2026

  • Meals included: snacks, lunch, purified water

  • Detailed reports: narrative feedback, not just marks

  • Location: 959 Sir Lowry’s Pass Road / Misty Falls Road, Gordon’s Bay

Fee Structure (2026)

  • Grade 1–3: R71,000 (R5,950/month)

  • Grade 4–9: R80,400 (R6,700/month)

  • Grade 10–GED/NQF 4: R83,400 (R6,950/month)

  • Sibling discount: 10%

  • Enrolment fee: R4,000 once-off + R500 admin fee

Includes tuition, meals, activities, stationery, outings, and first aid services.

Our Mission

“To nurture children who are self-disciplined, courageous, and compassionate leaders—equipped with the skills and wisdom to build a better world.”

📞 Contact us: 060 966 9701
📧 admin@thedanielacademy.co.za
 

Our Roots and Ethos?

 

Our founder, Mary-Ann Shearer has 30 years of experience in teaching, sustainable living, hospitality, business and natural health. She has developed a school program that prepares children for a changing world.

 

The Daniel Academy started in January 2015 and is founded on practical Biblical principles. It is based on Charlotte Mason’s original philosophy which is used by several schools all over the world. We also incorporate Dr Maria Montessori's scientific observation of children's phases of development, and we are inspired by the success of Finland’s educational system.

 

We have a child-centred approach and prioritize learning beyond the classroom by incorporating practical life skills as well as social and relational development. Students discover how to be self-sufficient by learning how to grow and prepare food, and how to maintain superb health. They are also responsible for cleaning their own space. We help our students develop the necessary skills and confidence they need to succeed in their future careers and personal lives.

 

We require that each family commits to a diet free of refined and processed foods, especially refined and processed sugar, to aid their children’s growth, development and behaviour. Parents are stewards of their children's lives and should provide a range of natural, healthy foods at home. The diet provided at the Daniel Academy will be whole-food, plant-based, sugar-free, with gluten-free options. This will aid all children with allergies, intolerances and behavioural challenges. We do not dictate what families eat in their homes, other than to encourage them to avoid refined and processed foods.

Our Beautiful School

Visiting our "neighbours" during our morning walks...

Explorers in the Garden