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Letter from the Principal
Bumble Bee – The Place to “Bee”
Dear Parents, Staff, and Little Learners,
For over 38 years, Bumble Bee has been more than just a pre-primary school—it has been a home for growing hearts and bright minds. It is with immense pride that I welcome you to another exciting year, as we continue our mission of providing excellence in early childhood education.
Our goal has always been simple but profound: to give each child and family an exceptional experience—rooted in care, quality, and joy. Every day, we strive for superior standards in everything we do, from our loving environments to our thoughtfully designed curriculum.
We see the proof of our efforts reflected in our alumni, who step confidently into their next schools as well-rounded, curious, and compassionate learners. Your trust in placing your precious child in our hands is a responsibility we cherish deeply. Together, we nurture, shape, and prepare our little ones not only for school, but for life.
At Bumble Bee, we believe in building a better future—one child at a time. By instilling values of kindness, respect, and a love for learning, we are helping raise the compassionate citizens our Rainbow Nation and world so dearly need.
We honour the vital role you play as parents and are committed to partnering with you in this beautiful journey. With love, knowledge, and positivity, we create a true home from home—where every child feels safe, seen, and inspired.
Our Promise to You
- ✅ Superior standards of operation in a secure, stimulating environment
- ✅ Best-in-class curriculum tailored for early development
- ✅ Excellence in every interaction—with children, parents, and staff
- ✅ A loving bond between teachers, parents, and children
- ✅ Healthy, homemade meals prepared with care by our school chef
- ✅ Safe and reliable transport in our beloved Bumble Bee buses
After four decades in education, we understand what it takes to create a happy, thriving hive. You can rest assured that your little one is in nurturing, experienced hands.
Here’s to a wonderful year ahead—filled with discovery, laughter, and growth.
Warmly,
Italia Swart
The PrincipalIlda de Freitas
OwnerBumble Bee Pre-Primary School
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Our History
Bumble Bee Pre-Primary School (initially known as Bumble Bee Playschool) has been in existence for over 60 years.
It was originally situated where Barclay Square now stands. Barclay Square was built in 1970, and Bumble Bee Playschool moved to Muckleneuk, one of the oldest residential areas in Pretoria, just below the UNISA main campus.
Since 1982 the School has been owned by the De Freitas family.Our playgrounds are big and shady and adjacent to us, you will find one of the oldest Jacaranda trees in Pretoria.
It is our aim to prepare our young ones for school and life.
A good foundation, concerning small and gross muscle development, while also catering for a variety of movement activities and a thorough knowledge of music.
Social and creative development as well as language and numeracy are well addressed with daily activities.

