| Legal Name | John Cowie Primary School |
|---|---|
| Year Founded | 1912 (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/ |
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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