Are you searching for the best secondary schools in South Africa for your child? If so, this article is here to help.
A solid education lays the foundation for a successful future. Every parent or guardian hopes their child will achieve great things, and one way to support that dream is by choosing a school that offers quality learning.
South Africa is known for its welcoming communities and supportive learning environment, making it home to some of the best secondary schools in Africa. With so many excellent options available, picking the right school for your child can feel overwhelming. This guide aims to make that decision easier.
The secondary education system in South Africa
The Department of Basic Education (DBE) manages primary and secondary education in South Africa. The education journey typically takes six years at the secondary level and is split into two main phases.
The first phase is called the General Education and Training (GET) Band. This includes the Lower Secondary or Senior Phase, which covers Grades 7 to 9. During this phase, students are usually between 12 and 15 years old.
The second phase is known as the Upper Secondary Phase or Further Education and Training (FET) Band. It includes Grades 10 to 12, where students are typically aged 16 to 18. In this phase, learners can attend either academic schools or technical/vocational schools to complete their studies.
To move on to Upper Secondary, students must successfully complete and pass Grade 9.
By the end of Grade 12, students are required to take the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, which mark the completion of high school.
Now that you understand the education system, let’s now look at some of the best secondary schools in South Africa.
The Top 10 Best Secondary Schools In South Africa
Here’s a list of the top 10 best secondary schools in South Africa to consider for your child:
1. Reddam House College
Reddam House College is known for its modern teaching style and well-rounded education. Students can follow either the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the South African National Curriculum, giving them plenty of academic options. The school also encourages creative thinking and offers clubs and sports like arts, drama, and athletics to help students explore their interests.
2. Inkamana High School
Founded in 1923 by German Benedictine missionaries, Inkamana High School focuses on more than just academics. The school encourages students to see education as a way to make a positive difference in their communities. With a strong sense of respect and responsibility, Inkamana helps learners grow into thoughtful and responsible individuals.
3. Pretoria Boys High School
If you’re after a school with a proud history and strong academic record, Pretoria Boys High School is worth checking out. It’s a public school known for its discipline, character development, and well-rounded education. The school offers a variety of subjects and activities, including impressive sports and arts programs, helping students thrive in different areas.
4. Kearsney College
Kearsney College is all about helping boys grow into independent and confident young men. The school welcomes both boarders and day students, offering a balanced education that focuses on academic success and personal development.
5. Eldorado Park Secondary School
This school is dedicated to uplifting its community through quality education. From the start, Eldorado Park Secondary has worked hard to improve academic performance and provide programs that meet the diverse interests of its students. The school also offers a supportive learning environment with modern classrooms, well-equipped science labs, and sports facilities to encourage both learning and personal growth.
6. Westerford High School
Located in Newlands, Cape Town, Westerford High School has earned a reputation as “the school that never sleeps” due to its vibrant academic and extracurricular activities. Since opening in 1953, the school has been committed to providing equal opportunities for boys and girls in academics, sports, and cultural activities. It’s a place where mutual respect and inclusivity are core values that every student carries with them.
7. Star Girls High School
Starting in 2009 with just 52 girls in Grade 8, Star Girls High School has grown into a thriving institution. The school is focused on empowering young women by helping them develop academic, leadership, and ethical skills. Students are encouraged to become confident, capable, and engaged members of society through programs designed to challenge and inspire them.
These schools are helping shape future leaders by creating supportive environments for students to learn, grow, and succeed. They truly represent some of the best secondary schools in South Africa.
8. St. John’s College
St. John’s College is a well-known Anglican boys’ school that has been providing excellent education and personal development for many years. The school follows a solid curriculum, including the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, and offers various extracurricular activities like music, sports, and drama. Leadership skills and community service are key parts of student life here, helping learners grow into responsible and compassionate individuals.
9. Orban School
Orban School offers a bilingual education in English and Afrikaans for learners from pre-primary through Grade 7. With smaller class sizes, students get more individual attention. The school also focuses on creativity, with a curriculum rich in arts, giving students plenty of chances to express themselves through creative projects.
10. Parel Vallei High School
Parel Vallei High School is a public school known for its academic achievements and supportive learning environment. The school offers a broad curriculum that includes arts, sports, and cultural activities, ensuring students get a well-rounded education. They also actively work with the local community to provide better learning opportunities and encourage students’ personal growth.
Also Read: Top 10 Best Boarding Schools in Cameroon for Your Child
Frequently Asked Questions on Best Secondary Schools in South Africa
1. What is The Most Expensive Secondary School in South Africa?
Michaelhouse and Hilton College are among the most expensive secondary schools in South Africa, with annual fees running well over R300,000.
2. What Are the Top 10 Private Secondary Schools in South Africa?
Some of the top private schools include:
- Hilton College
- St. John’s College
- Michaelhouse
- Kearsney College
- Roedean School for Girls
- St Stithians College
- Bishops Diocesan College
- Crawford College
- Reddam House
- Somerset College
Are Private Schools Better Than Public Schools in South Africa?
It depends on what you’re looking for. Private schools often have smaller class sizes, more resources, and a wider range of extracurricular activities. However, many public schools also provide excellent education and have high Matric pass rates.
What Are the Best Public Secondary Schools in South Africa?
Some of the top public schools include:
- Pretoria Boys High School
- Westerford High School
- Parel Vallei High School
- Parktown Boys’ High School
- Durban High School
How Do I Choose the Right Secondary Schools for my Child?
Consider factors like:
- Academic performance
- Extracurricular activities
- Class size
- School values and culture
- Distance from home
What curriculum Options Are Available in South African Secondary Schools?
Many schools follow the South African National Curriculum (CAPS), while some private schools offer the International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge, or other international programs.
Also Read: Top 10 Best Boarding Schools in Nigeria
Conclusion
This article highlights some of the best secondary schools in South Africa, many of which consistently perform well in yearly Matric exams. I hope this blog post gives you helpful guidance if you’re searching for great schools in the country.
Whether you choose a public or private school, South African schools offer more than just academics. They welcome students from all backgrounds, create supportive learning environments, and celebrate diversity.
These schools help students grow not just academically, but personally too, giving them the tools they need to thrive in life.
