Our History

Founded in 1982, Hillcrest Preparatory School was established to meet the growing need for a multicultural educational community serving Zimbabwean learners, particularly those from Mutare and the surrounding region.

In its earliest years, before the current campus was developed, lessons were conducted at La Rochelle in composite classes. Following the acquisition of the estate that now houses the school, operations were relocated, and the original farmhouse—today home to the school's administration offices—was converted into classrooms.

As enrolment grew, purpose-built classroom blocks were constructed, followed by a dedicated infants' section and a swimming pool. The development of the Paul Michalec Recreational Centre marked another significant milestone in the school's growth and remains a symbol of the vision, determination and community spirit that built Hillcrest. These achievements embody the school's enduring motto, "Simba Mate."

The formative years of Hillcrest were characterised by extraordinary community support. Parents, pupils, staff, friends of the school and members of the Mutare community worked together to transform a vision into reality. Volunteers planted grass on sports fields, established gardens and planted trees throughout the campus.

Today, Hillcrest Preparatory School stands as a thriving centre of learning and a place of natural beauty, reflecting the dedication and commitment of all those who contributed to its foundation.

We acknowledge with gratitude the pioneers whose leadership and vision helped establish the school:

D. Knight, A. Stephenson, J. Lewis, A. Went, E. Stockil, D. Meikle, B. Watkins, B. de Buys, F. Heyne, Bishops Muchabaiwa and Masuko, P. Genari and D. Jahwi.