Gloria PenLooking for the best secondary schools in South Africa for your child? You’re in the right place. Choosing the right school is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make as a parent or student, as a good school sets the foundation for academic success, personal growth, and a bright future.
In this blog post, I’ll list out the top-rated secondary schools in South Africa. These schools have great academic results, good facilities, caring teachers, and a good reputation.
So whether you’re living in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, or any other city in South Africa, you must find a school perfect for your child’s interest here.
Read on as we outlist them.
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Top 10 Best Secondary Schools in South Africa
Here are the top secondary schools in South Africa that many parents and students consider when looking for quality education:
1. St. John’s College – Johannesburg
Location: Houghton, Johannesburg, Gauteng
Tuition Fees: Around R144,000 per year
This school offers a mix of strong academics, sports, and values. It’s a private Anglican boys’ school with a proud tradition. You’ll find modern classrooms and many activities to help your child grow. Visit School
2. Diocesan College (Bishops) – Cape Town
Location: Rondebosch, Cape Town, Western Cape
Tuition Fees: Around R162,000 per year
Bishops is one of South Africa’s oldest schools. It has a focus on academics, music, and leadership. If you’re in Cape Town, this is one of the best secondary schools in South Africa to send your son. Visit School
3. Hilton College – KwaZulu-Natal
Location: Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal
Tuition Fees: Around R343,155 per year (boarding only)
Hilton College is a full boarding boys’ school, as well one of the best secondary schools in South Africa to enroll your male child.
It has large campus and excellent academics, a great option if you want your child to study in a peaceful and focused environment. Visit School
4. Roedean School – Johannesburg
Location: Parktown, Johannesburg, Gauteng
Tuition Fees: Around R153,000 per year
Roedean is a top girls’ school with a good history. The school promotes leadership and independence. The campus is beautiful, and the teachers are caring. Visit School
5. Michaelhouse – KwaZulu-Natal
Location: Balgowan, KwaZulu-Natal
Tuition Fees: About R360,000 per year (boarding only)
Michaelhouse is another all-boys boarding school. It’s well respected and has produced many successful leaders. If you’re looking for top boarding schools, this is one of the best secondary schools in South Africa that stands out. Visit School
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6. Rondebosch Boys’ High School – Cape Town
Location: Rondebosch, Cape Town, Western Cape
Tuition Fees: Around R60,000 per year
This public boys’ school also offers high academic results. It’s also strong in sports and culture. The school is more affordable and still offers great value. Visit School
7. Pretoria Boys High School – Pretoria
Location: Brooklyn, Pretoria, Gauteng
Tuition Fees: Around R55,000 per year
This government school is one of the best in Pretoria. You’ll find a mix of tradition and modern education. It’s ideal if you want great academics at a more affordable price. Visit School
8. St. Mary’s Diocesan School for Girls – Pretoria
Location: Hillcrest, Pretoria, Gauteng
Tuition Fees: Around R128,000 per year
St. Mary’s offers a good balance of learning, values, and faith. It’s a top private school for girls. Many parents choose it for the care and high standards. Visit School
9. Crawford College – Sandton
Location: Sandton, Johannesburg, Gauteng
Tuition Fees: Around R140,000 per year
Crawford College is part of the CrawfordSchools group and among the best secondary schools in South Africa doing absolutely well.
It’s modern, inclusive, and offers creative teaching methods. If you’re a parent, this’s a good fit if you want a more flexible learning style for your child. Visit School
10. Maritzburg College – Pietermaritzburg
Location: Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal
Tuition Fees: Around R45,000 per year
One of the oldest boys’ schools in the province, it’s popular for academics, sports, and leadership. It’s also more affordable compared to other private schools in South Africa. Visit School
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What Is the Number One High School in South Africa?
Many people want to know the number one high school in South Africa, but the answer depends on what you’re looking for.
If you want a school that has strong academics, Hilton College and Michaelhouse are top choices. For a balance of academics, sports, and leadership, schools like St. John’s College and Bishops are excellent.
But if you’re looking at national academic performance, schools like Rondebosch Boys’ High School and Pretoria Boys High School often stand out in public rankings.
So, the “number one” school really depends on your needs, location, fees, boarding or day school, and values.
How Much Are School Fees in South Africa?
Fees in South African secondary schools can be very different from one school to another.
In Public schools, you can expect to pay between R25,000 to R60,000 per year.
While in Private day schools, school fees are around R100,000 to R160,000 per year.
Meanwhile, Private boarding schools is between R250,000 and R360,000 per year.
Remember, fees might also include textbooks, uniforms, and extra lessons. It’s best to contact the school directly for a full breakdown.
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FAQs for Top Best Secondary Schools in South Africa
Here are some questions other parents asked about best secondary schools in South Africa and their answers that might help you as well:
Q1. Are public schools in South Africa good?
Yes, many public schools like Rondebosch and Pretoria Boys offer great education, especially in big cities. You just need to do your research.
Q2. Can international students attend secondary schools in South Africa?
Yes, many private schools welcome international students. You’ll just need to meet their admission requirements and apply for a study visa.
Q3. Do South African schools follow the same curriculum?
Most schools follow the national CAPS curriculum. While some private schools offer IEB or Cambridge curricula.
Q4. What’s the best girls’ school in South Africa?
Roedean School and St. Mary’s DSG are top girls’ schools known for strong academics and personal development.
Q5. Is boarding school better than day school?
It depends on your child. Boarding schools offer more structure, but day schools give more family time. Think about what works best for your child’s personality. See reasons why boarding schools are better than day Schools(Debate)
Final Words
South Africa is home to some of the best secondary schools on the continent. Whether you want a public school with excellent academics or a private school with top facilities, you have good options.
Always think about your child’s needs, your budget, and your location before making a choice. Take your time to visit the schools, speak with other parents, and ask questions.
I hope this top 10 Best Secondary Schools in South Africa helps you make a better choice for your child’s future. If you found it helpful, feel free to share with others.
Good luck!
Gloria Pen