Welcome to the Da Vinci Centre

Every student who enters the doors of the Centre is recognised for having strengths.

Our goal is to harness these strengths and facilitate the learning so that their academic journey becomes a safe, enjoyable, creative and multi-sensory experience.

Academic support is of utmost importance at our Centre. Whether or not this means revision, consolidation or study guidance, there is always a teacher or a Sixth Form Tutor who will offer counsel at the Da Vinci Centre. Curiosity is encouraged and no question is too trivial to answer. We believe that the confidence and skill for knowing how and when to ask for help is crucial for academic engagement. The many different approaches to learning are respected and employed. Empathy is exhibited towards those who may have barriers to learning. The utmost integrity is demonstrated by our staff and student tutors. There is a place for all voices at the College.

Leonardo Da Vinci, (1452-1519), was a passionate teacher and lifelong learner. As an artist, inventor and writer he had many talents, but he wrote backwards, struggled with spelling and often did not complete his projects. These were learning and thinking differences. Whether or not he had Dyslexia or Attention Deficit Disorder, Leonardo capitalised on his strengths and channelled them to earn a place as one of history’s greatest geniuses.

When learning plans are created for students, all their learning requirements are incorporated into their individualised programme. Together with the College Academic Heads, College Teachers, Safeguarding Department and School Counsellor, each student at the school is given the opportunity to take part in every aspect that the College has to offer.

Da Vinci City & Guilds Electrical and Electronic Engineering Club

Electrical and Electronic Engineering was introduced in 2021 as one of the Da Vinci Centre vocational subjects. Sunshine Zimbabwe Project is a registered City & Guilds Centre, and together with their qualified tutors, St John’s College facilitates this course. We have seen all of our young men graduate with Level 2 Certificates, and most then go on to take the Level 3 Qualification, which affords them a Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.  This enables them to undergo trade testing by the Zimbabwe Ministry of Manpower and Development and they are able to acquire trade licences which enable graduates to practise as certified electricians thereafter.

This course provides an exciting and alternative option for learners who prefer the more practical vocations and want to work in skills-based professions