For over 130 years, Dominican Convent Primary School has been shaping confident, compassionate and capable young women through a tradition of academic excellence, faith formation, leadership development and service to the community.
Dominican Convent Primary School was founded on 28 October 1895 by the Dominican Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus - making it the oldest school in Bulawayo and one of Zimbabwe's most established educational institutions.
From humble beginnings with ten pupils in a rented wood-and-iron chapel on 9th Avenue, the school has grown into one of the country's finest primary institutions. What began as a small mission school has become a landmark of Catholic education - a place where generations of families have placed their trust, and where daughters, mothers and grandmothers have all walked the same corridors.
Today, Dominican Convent Primary School stands as a testament to over 130 years of unwavering commitment to the girl child - offering an English-medium Catholic education from ECD through Grade 7, aligned with the Zimbabwe Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education.
To be a leading Catholic primary school that nurtures confident, compassionate and academically excellent young women who are prepared to make a meaningful difference in the world.
To provide an excellent Catholic education rooted in the Dominican tradition of Veritas, fostering the intellectual, spiritual, social and physical development of every learner in a safe, inclusive and faith-filled environment.
As a Dominican school, we are guided by the principle of Veritas — the Latin word for Truth - and by the four Dominican Pillars that have shaped the Order’s mission of education for over 800 years.
"Veritas" is not merely a motto - it is a way of life. Truth in learning, truth in character, truth in faith, and truth in service. Since 1895 it has guided every teacher, every learner and every family that has been part of the Dominican Convent story.
We cultivate a deep relationship with God through daily prayer, liturgy and reflection - nurturing the spiritual life of every learner.
Academic excellence is central to our identity. We challenge every learner to think critically, learn deeply and pursue truth with intellectual curiosity and rigour.
We build a culture of belonging, collaboration and mutual respect - among learners, staff, parents and the wider community we serve.
We instil a heart for service. Our learners are encouraged to give back, to care for others, and to use their gifts in service of God and the community.
At Dominican Convent Primary School, we believe education extends far beyond the classroom. Our learners grow intellectually, spiritually, socially and physically - emerging as well-rounded young women ready to lead with confidence and serve with compassion.
Our curriculum, grounded in the Zimbabwe Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education guidelines, is enriched by Dominican values, co-curricular excellence and a commitment to developing the whole child.
We do not simply teach subjects. We shape character, grow faith and develop leaders who will leave their mark on Zimbabwe and beyond.
Year after year, families across Bulawayo and beyond choose Dominican Convent Primary School for one reason above all others - because we deliver on our promise to develop the whole child.
One of Zimbabwe's most established and trusted schools, with a legacy built over thirteen decades.
Moral formation and Catholic faith at the heart of every school day, shaping character alongside intellect.
A committed staff who know every learner by name and go above and beyond to nurture each child's potential.
A disciplined, caring and inclusive school community where every girl feels secure, valued and supported.
100% Grade 7 pass rate in 2023 and 2024, with learners consistently excelling in national assessments.
Sport, music, drama, clubs and community service - something meaningful for every learner beyond the classroom.
Prefects, school council, competitions and service projects that build confident young leaders.
A diverse and inclusive school family that celebrates every learner's background, culture and unique identity.
We encourage every learner to discover her strengths and develop the confidence to use them. Leadership is not reserved for a chosen few at Dominican Convent - it is nurtured in every girl, in every classroom, on every sports field and in every act of service.
Our goal is to send forth young women who lead with integrity, compassion and courage - women who are not afraid to stand up for truth, to serve others and to make their mark on the world.
Dominican Convent Primary School is more than a school - it is a family. We foster meaningful partnerships between learners, parents, staff and the wider community to create an environment where every child feels valued, supported and inspired to succeed.
Every girl at Dominican Convent is known by name, celebrated for her uniqueness and supported to reach her full potential — academically, spiritually and personally.
We see parents as partners in education. Through open communication, parent evenings and community events, we work together to support every child’s journey.
Our dedicated and experienced teaching staff bring passion, expertise and genuine care to every classroom — committed to inspiring a love of learning in every learner.
“Dominican Convent Primary is not just a school my daughter attends - it is a community she belongs to. The warmth, the values and the genuine care of the staff make this place truly special.”
Whether you are considering enrolment or simply wish to learn more about our school, we warmly invite you to visit our campus and experience the Dominican difference for yourself.