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John Cowie Primary School Biography

John Cowie is a government primary school located in Makoni District, Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe. Below is a detailed profile covering its history, leadership and more.

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John Cowie Primary School Logo
John Cowie Primary School Logo
Details
Legal NameJohn Cowie Primary School
Year Founded1912 (113 Years Ago)
Location
Makoni District, Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe
Type
Government, Co-educational, Day and Boarding
Headmaster
Mrs. Chanyawo (since 2024)
Student Population
900+
Average passrate
98.9%
Boarding Fee
USD 440 per term (subject to change)
Uniform Color
Green
Official Website
https://johncowiepri.com/
Social Media Links

Background and Leadership

John Cowie Primary School is a government-run school located in Makoni District, Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe. It was established in 1912 and is officially registered under the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (MoPSE). The school has grown from shifting students in just 2 classrooms into a large institution with over 900 learners.

In 2024, Mrs. Chanyawo became the head of the school, taking over from Sir Garikai S. Nyawo, a long-serving headmaster known for building a strong academic and community-based culture. The school is also supported by a School Development Association (SDA), currently led by Mr. Munyaradzi Manyengawana, a former pupil, teacher, and sports coach at the school.

Academics and Curriculum

John Cowie follows the ZIMSEC curriculum, offering both academic and practical subjects. These include:

  • Mathematics
  • English Language
  • Shona Language
  • Science
  • Social Science
  • Agriculture
  • Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

The school is known for its strong academic performance. It regularly achieves a 100% pass rate in Grade 7 final examinations. In 2024, the school maintained this record and was ranked among the top five primary schools in Manicaland Province.

Boarding and School Life

John Cowie provides boarding facilities for both boys and girls. Learners in boarding are supervised by a dedicated team and receive regular, balanced meals. The school environment supports both academic focus and personal well-being.

The school has a set uniform worn throughout the year:

Summer uniform:

  • Boys: Khaki shirt and shorts, green tie with gold stripes
  • Girls: Spring green dress with white collar
  • Both: Green jersey and brown shoes

Winter uniform:

  • Dark green blazer
  • Dark green trousers (boys) or slacks (girls)
  • White shirt, green tie, green school hat

Sports and Activities

Beyond the classroom, learners participate in various sports and extracurricular programs. These include:

  • Soccer
  • Volleyball
  • Netball
  • Athletics
  • Quiz competitions

Admissions and Fees

To apply, parents need to collect and fill out a form from the school. Required documents may include:

  • Birth certificate
  • Latest school report (if transferring)
  • Proof of residence

Shortlisted learners may be invited for interviews as part of the selection process.

The last known boarding fee was around USD 440 per term. Fees may change, so it's best to contact the school for up-to-date information.

See where John Cowie places on the top 100 list of primary schools in Zimbabwe

References