South Africa is home to numerous prestigious schools renowned for their academic excellence, extracurricular achievements, and holistic development programs. While rankings can vary based on criteria and sources, here are ten schools frequently recognized among the top in the country:
1
Grey College
High School
Established in 1855, Grey College is one of the oldest schools in South Africa, known for its strong academic performance and sports achievements.
2
King Edward VII School
High School
A prominent boys’ school with a rich history, offering a balanced education emphasizing academics, sports, and cultural activities.
3
St Johns College
High School
A leading Anglican boys’ school offering a comprehensive curriculum and a strong emphasis on moral and ethical education.
At the top of the list with an average distinction of 4.13, is St John’s College that is based in Houghton, Johannesburg. This Christian, African school was founded in 1898. The school accepts boys from Grade 0 to Grade 12 into the Pre-Preparatory, Preparatory and the College.
Both boys and girls are accepted in The Bridge Nursery School and Sixth Form.
St John’s College follows the traditions of the Anglican church, but also celebrates the traditions of other faith communities. To balance the academic demands, St John’s has a diverse and rich extracurricular cultural and sporting programme.¹
| St John’s College annual fees² | R114,011 – R120,163 (about £4,760 – £5,020) | R161,709 (about £6760) | Tuition fee: R206,768 (about £8,640)With termly boarding: R352,610 (about £14,740) |
4
Durban Girls’ College
Education
An independent girls’ school celebrated for its academic excellence and diverse extracurricular offerings.
Durban Girls’ College was established in 1877 and is a successful South African school. The school is located high above the city on Durban’s Berea. DGC is an independent IEB school for girls from Grade 00 to Grade 12, with weekly boarding available from Grade 7.
This independent Christian school aims to inspire their students to fulfil their potential through a dynamic educational experience.
DGC has comprehensive sporting and cultural programmes
5
Michaelhouse
High School
A renowned Anglican boys’ boarding school focusing on holistic education and leadership development.
6
St Anne’s Diocesan College
High School
An independent girls’ school dedicated to providing a nurturing environment and a well-rounded education.
7
Rondebosch Boys High School
High School
A leading public boys’ school with a strong academic record and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
These Best schools in south Africa have earned their reputations through consistent academic performance, comprehensive extracurricular programs, and contributions to their communities. It’s important to note that the “best” school can vary depending on individual preferences, needs, and values. Prospective students and parents should consider factors such as location, school culture, facilities, and specific programs when making a choice.
South Africa boasts a diverse array of top-tier schools, each offering unique educational experiences across various regions. Here’s an overview of some of the Best schools in South Africa around diffarent provinces:
Gauteng Province:
- St John’s College (Johannesburg): An esteemed Anglican boys’ school known for its rigorous academics and comprehensive extracurricular programs. Wise
- Roedean School (Johannesburg): A prestigious all-girls institution celebrated for its outstanding academic achievements and cultural activities. BusinessTech
- King Edward VII School (Johannesburg): A renowned public boys’ school with a strong emphasis on academic excellence and sportsmanship. Daberistic
Western Cape Province:
- Hoër Meisieskool Bloemhof (Stellenbosch): The oldest Afrikaans-medium girls’ school in South Africa, consistently ranked among the top high schools in the Western Cape. Wise Move
- St Cyprian’s School (Cape Town): A values-driven, all-girls private school offering a balanced education with strong academic and extracurricular programs.
- Grey High School (Gqeberha): A leading boys’ school recognized for its competitiveness and excellence in academics, sports, and cultural activities.
KwaZulu-Natal Province:
- Durban Girls’ High School (Durban): A modern, innovative institution providing a secure environment that respects personal dignity, catering to young women from Grades 8 to 12. Wise Move
- Hilton College (Hilton): A private boarding school for boys, offering a unique learning approach on a 1,600-hectare estate, encouraging excellence in academics, sports, and cultural activities.
Eastern Cape Province:
- Selborne College (East London): A semi-private boys’ school with a mission to offer an excellent, well-rounded educational experience, promoting tolerance of various faiths and belief systems. Wise Move
- Clarendon High School for Girls (East London): Provides an innovative environment that values creativity, offering a dynamic education geared towards the future for young women.
Free State Province:
- Eunice High School (Bloemfontein): A public all-girls school with a long-standing tradition of excellence, offering a multi-faceted education supported by unique staff, learners, and parents.
- Grey College (Bloemfontein): Provides a secure and positive school environment, offering parallel medium education in Afrikaans and English, maintaining high standards in academics and sports.
When selecting the best school for your child, consider factors such as location, type (public or private), gender, language of instruction, and budget to ensure the institution aligns with your child’s needs and aspirations.
How to Apply to a Best schools in south africa
When applying to a private school in South Africa, it’s important to start early—ideally before the cut-off date, which typically falls between August and October. Be sure to double-check the application timelines and specific requirements for the schools you’re considering. Submitting your application promptly increases the likelihood of securing a place for your child.
Best schools in south Africa Required Documents for Application
To enroll your child, you’ll generally need to provide the following documents:
- Birth certificate
- Proof of immunization
- For students with prior schooling experience: a transfer card and their last school report
For non-South African citizens, additional documents are required:
- A study permit
- A temporary or permanent residence permit, or proof of application for permission to stay in South Africa
Best schools in south Africa Admission Requirements
Admission criteria vary between private schools, but most evaluate:
- Academic performance, including good grades
- Participation in and achievements related to extracurricular activities
Many schools also conduct admission tests and interviews, so preparation is key. Consider hiring a tutor to help your child succeed during this process.
To ensure you meet all requirements, reach out to the school directly. Schools often provide guidance on the admissions process and can answer specific questions.