Cape Town is home to many outstanding high schools that provide exceptional educational opportunities to students. From academic excellence to a diverse range of extracurricular activities, these top schools in Cape Town cultivate an environment where students can academically and personally thrive. In no particular order let’s look at ten of Cape Town’s high schools, including some of their notable alums.
Table of Contents
Rondebosch Boys’ High School (Public) 🌲
Founded in 1897, Rondebosch Boys’ High School is one of the oldest schools in the country, with a strong academic reputation. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers various subjects, which aims to prepare students for tertiary education and offers Advanced Programme (AP) subjects for those seeking an extra challenge.
Extracurricular activities include sports, cultural clubs, societies, and community service initiatives. Rondebosch Boys’ High School has a strong sporting tradition and participates in sports such as rugby, cricket, hockey, soccer, athletics, swimming, and more. The school’s teams have achieved considerable success at regional and national levels.
2024 School fees (per annum):
R76 900 for Grade 8 (includes R4 000 iPad prepayment).
R71 900 per annum for Grades 9.
R74 650 per annum for Grade 10 (includes R5 750 for “The Grade 10 Journey”).
R68 900 per annum for Grades 11 to 12.
Website: www.rondebosch.com
Contact Number: 021 686 3987
Email Address: infoline@rondebosch.com
Herschel Girls’ School (Private) 🏫
Founded in 1922, it is one of the leading independent schools in the country and has gained a reputation for providing high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment. The academic program is designed to challenge and stimulate students, preparing them for tertiary education and future careers. The school is known for its strong academic results and high university acceptance rates.
Herschel Girls’ School provides a variety of extracurricular activities to complement the academic program and allow students to explore their interests and talents. These include sports, cultural clubs, societies, and community service initiatives. The school encourages students to engage in a well-rounded education and provides opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and teamwork.
2024 School fees (per annum):
Grade 8 to Grade 12 – R 148,400
Website: www.herschel.org.za
Contact Number: 021 670 7500
Email Address: info@herschel.org.za
Bishops Diocesan College (Private) 🦁
Established in 1849, Bishops is one of the country’s oldest and most renowned independent schools. It provides education from pre-primary (age 3) through to Grade 12 and has a strong reputation for academic excellence, sports achievements, and a well-rounded education. The academic program is designed to challenge and inspire students, preparing them for tertiary education and future careers.
Bishops is known for its outstanding academic results, consistently achieving excellent matriculation results and high university acceptance rates. The school provides a diverse range of extracurricular activities to complement the academic program and foster the holistic development of students. The school also offers cultural clubs, music ensembles, drama productions, debating societies, and community service initiatives.
2024 School fees (per annum):
Grades 8 to 12 – R199 650 (Tuition), R 141 780 (Boarding) and R341 430 (Tuition and Boarding).
Website: www.bishops.org.za
Contact Number: 021 659 1000
Email Address: marketing@bishops.org.za
Westerford High School (Public) 🌄
Established in 1953, the school has gained a reputation for its academic excellence, inclusive environment, and strong community spirit. It’s known for its rigorous academic program and provides a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for tertiary education and future careers. The school also promotes cultural activities, including music, drama, art, and debate, providing students with opportunities to explore their creative and intellectual pursuits.
2023 School fees (per annum):
Grade 8-12: R49, 740.00
Website: www.westerford.co.za
Contact Number: 021 689 9154
Email Address: admin@westerford.co.za
Rustenburg Girls’ High School (Public) 🎒
Founded in 1894, the school has a rich history and is well-regarded for its academic excellence, strong values, and commitment to empowering young women. Rustenburg Girls’ High School strongly emphasises academic achievement and intellectual growth. The educational program is designed to challenge and inspire students, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a lifelong love for learning.
Rustenburg has a strong academic record, with many students achieving outstanding results in national examinations. The school provides diverse extracurricular activities to complement the academic program and promote holistic development. The extracurricular activities offer opportunities for students to explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and build lifelong friendships.
2023 School fees (per annum):
Grade 8 (includes R3 500 iPad pre-payment) – R62 847
Grade 9 – R59 180
Grade 10 – R58 680
Grade 11 – R56 680
Grade 12 – R56 480
Website: www.rghs.org.za
Contact Number: 021 686 4066 / 686 4070 / 686 3683
Email Address: info@rghs.org.za
South African College Schools (SACS) High School (Public) 🏅
Established in 1829, it is one of the oldest schools in the country and has a rich history and a reputation for academic excellence, sporting achievements, and a well-rounded education. SACS High School is known for its rigorous academic program and aims to develop critical thinking skills, intellectual curiosity, and a love for learning which places it into one of the top high schools in Cape Town. The school offers a variety of extracurricular activities to complement the academic program and promote holistic development, such as music, drama, debating, and art.
2023 School fees (per annum):
Grade 8 – R 62 800
Grade 9 to 11 – R 61 000
Grade 12 (excl extras) – R 61 000
Website: www.sacollege.org.za
Contact Number: 021 689 4164
Email Address: twinek@sacollege.org.za
🚗Car Problems On A School Day? Rent A Car So You Don’t Miss School Drop Off Or Pick Up! 🚘
Wynberg Boys’ High School (Public) 🌳
Established in 1841, it is one of the country’s oldest and most reputable schools. Wynberg Boys’ High School has a proud history, strong academic tradition, and a focus on holistic education. The academic program is designed to challenge and inspire students, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for learning. Wynberg Boys’ High School has a strong academic record, with many students achieving outstanding results in national examinations.
Wynberg Boys’ High School has a rich sporting tradition and participates in various sports such as rugby, cricket, hockey, soccer, athletics, swimming, and more. The school also offers cultural activities, including music, drama, debating, and art.
2024 School fees (per annum):
Grade 8 – 12: R62 350
Website: www.wbhs.org.za
Contact Number: 021 797 4247
Email Address: secretaries@wbhs.org.za
Springfield Convent School (Independent) 🚸
Founded in 1871, it is a Catholic school with a rich history and a reputation for academic excellence, values-based education, and a nurturing environment. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of subjects, including Mathematics, Science, English, Afrikaans, History, Geography, and many others. The academic program is designed to challenge and inspire students, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a love for learning which makes it one of the best schools in Cape Town.
As a Catholic school, Springfield Convent School provides religious education as an integral part of the curriculum. The school aims to develop students’ spiritual growth, moral values, and understanding of the Catholic faith. However, the school welcomes students of various religious backgrounds and promotes respect and tolerance for different beliefs.
2023/2024 School fees (per annum):
Grade 8 – Grade 12: R 93,126
Website: www.springfieldconvent.co.za
Contact Number: 021 797 6169
Email Address: snrpost@springfieldconvent.co.za
The Settlers High School (Public) 🌻
Established in 1952, the school serves the surrounding community and is known for its commitment to academic excellence, cultural diversity, and holistic education. The Settlers High School offers a comprehensive academic program that aims to provide students with a solid foundation for their future endeavours. The curriculum challenges and engages students, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for learning.
The Settlers High School celebrates cultural diversity and promotes an inclusive and tolerant environment. The school embraces students from various backgrounds and encourages mutual respect and understanding among students. Cultural events and activities are organised to showcase and appreciate the diverse traditions and heritage of the student body.
2023 School fees:
Grade 8 to 12 – R29 650
Website: www.settlers.org.za
Contact Number: 021 948 6116
Email Address: info@settlers.org.za
Reddam House Constantia (Private) 🏉
Reddam House Constantia is an independent and private school, co-educational school part of the Reddam House Group, a global network of schools that offers education from early childhood through to high school. Reddam House Constantia follows a comprehensive and balanced curriculum based on the South African National Curriculum, supplemented by international elements.
Reddam House Constantia’s academic program emphasises academic rigour and personal growth. It focuses on developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a love for learning. The school offers various subjects, including languages, mathematics, sciences, humanities, arts, and technology.
2024 School fees (per annum):
Grade 8 – R165 515
Grade 9 – R170 487
Grade 10 – R170 487
Grade 11 – R170 487
Grade 12 – R170 487
Website: www.reddamhouse.com
Contact Number: 021 702 2322
Email Address: info.constantia@reddam.house
Camps Bay High School (Public) 🫂
Camps Bay High School, located in the scenic coastal suburb of Camps Bay in Cape Town, South Africa, is a prestigious institution that stands as a beacon of academic excellence and personal growth. With a rich history dating back to its establishment, the school has fostered a vibrant learning environment where students are encouraged to explore their passions, develop critical thinking skills, and embrace a global perspective.
Known for its dedicated faculty and comprehensive curriculum, Camps Bay High School offers a wide range of subjects and extracurricular activities that cater to diverse interests, nurturing well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of the future. The school’s picturesque surroundings and close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean add to its appeal and make it one of the best public high schools in Cape Town.
2024 School fees:
Grades 8 to 12 – R45 600 annually
Website: https://www.campsbayhigh.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 438 1507
Email Address: campsbayschools@gmail.com
Fish Hoek High School 👔
Fish Hoek High School shows a commitment to fostering an effective education with a vision centred on “Learning to Make a Difference.” Guided by a mission to inspire students to realize their full potential and contribute positively to society, the school upholds four core values: Respect, Responsibility, Service, and Truth. These values form the foundation for an educational environment that prioritizes the development of well-rounded individuals equipped to navigate the challenges of the world beyond the classroom.
The school’s ethos is further underscored by a set of principles that guide both students and educators alike. Celebrating successes, extending warm greetings, expressing gratitude, paying it forward, responding to needs, and acknowledging the responsibilities that come with privilege are among the integral components of Fish Hoek High School’s ethos. The institution takes pride in its supportive parent body and a faculty composed of well-qualified, experienced, and stable staff. This collective dedication has borne fruit in the form of confident and accomplished graduates who have left an indelible mark on the world, exemplifying the school’s commitment to setting high standards of moral and ethical behaviour while achieving academic excellence.
2024 School Fees:
R31,500-00 per pupil annually
Website: https://fishhoekhighschool.co.za/
Contact Number: 021 782 1107 option 1
Email Address: admin@fishhoekhs.com
Silvermine Academy 🦉
Silvermine Academy, situated in the south of Cape Town, is renowned for its gold standard of independent education. Dedicated to guiding students through the challenges of adolescence, the academy focuses on fostering collaboration, confidence, and competence. Offering Grade 8-12 education with a maximum of 25 students per grade, Silvermine Academy emphasizes individualized attention and well-being across emotional, academic, physical, and community dimensions.
The curriculum spans from CAPS supplemented with ICT integration and 4iR skills in Grades 8-9 to a diverse array of subjects culminating in the internationally recognized IEB NSC exam in Grades 10-12. Technologically progressive, the academy utilizes Google for Education, encouraging student device ownership and providing Wi-Fi on campus. With Google Classroom as the central hub for resource sharing and a certified team offering IT support, Silvermine Academy equips students for success in the rapidly evolving world today
2024 School Fees:
R96 445 annually
Website: https://www.sma.education/about
Contact Number: 021 788 6903
Constantia Waldorf School ✨
Established in 1959 in Pinelands, the Constantia Waldorf School has evolved into a comprehensive educational institution now located on 15 acres in Constantia. Despite its modest beginnings, the school boasts a consistent 100% Matric pass rate since 1970, with alumni excelling in higher education and the professional realm. The purpose-built campus features classrooms, a Gym hall, a Library, and specialized rooms for various activities, reflecting the school’s commitment to holistic education.
Adhering to the educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, the co-educational Constantia Waldorf School provides a modern and meaningful education, aiming to sustain students’ innate curiosity and wonder. The balanced curriculum integrates sciences, humanities, and arts, fostering the development of well-rounded individuals capable of navigating the complexities of modern life. The school’s commitment extends beyond academics to include a Public Puppet Theatre, a Craft shop, and the Sophia Family Centre, providing an environment where students can thrive intellectually and emotionally.
2024 School Fees:
Grade 8 – R 91,946
Grade 9 – R 91,946
Grade 10 – R 91,946
Grade 11 – R 97,440
Grade 12 – R 97,440
Website: https://www.waldorfconstantia.org.za/
Contact Number: 021 794 2103
Email Address: reception@waldorfconstantia.co.za
Claremont High School 📕
Claremont High School stands out for their academic excellence and holistic development in Cape Town. The school’s commitment is evident in its mission to equip students with the essential qualities of active learners while fostering exceptional academic performance. Beyond academic pursuits, Claremont High School aims to cultivate happy, enthusiastic, and well-rounded individuals who become responsible South African citizens, embodying values of honesty and respect. Teachers at Claremont High School are encouraged to create a dynamic and creative learning environment, ensuring an inclusive educational atmosphere that empowers students.
The school takes pride not only in its outstanding academic achievements but also in offering a well-rounded experience, catering to the diverse needs and tastes of its student body. Located in a well-kept, leafy grounds with airy classrooms, the campus provides an optimal environment for development and learning. Claremont High School has expanded its facilities to accommodate a growing student body, offering superb athletics, rugby, hockey, and cricket fields. Parents can expect excellent services and facilities, including spacious classrooms with SMART Board technology, science and technology labs, a media centre (library), a computer lab, an attractive school hall, and recreational amenities such as a swimming pool and courtyards.
Contact Number: 021 671 0645
🩻Take The Kids Out On A Medical And Educational Adventure!🩺
These eleven Cape Town high schools provide students with excellent educational experiences, remarkable alumni networks, and numerous opportunities for personal growth. These High schools in Cape Town offer a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities for students to explore. Whether public or private, these institutions offer various programs encouraging academic excellence, sporting achievements, cultural pursuits, and community engagement. For further information about the best high schools in Cape Town, visit their websites or connect with them on social media platforms to stay updated with their latest developments and achievements.
Thank you for this, found it really useful and now have a starting point. As a single mom this was a God send 🌺
I feel like Parklands College should be on this list!!! AMAZING facilities! AMAZING staff and AMAZING experiences!!!!
These schools are very beautiful and I like them but can you show some public high schools that are cheap please.