What is High School?
A secondary school or a high school describes an institution that provides secondary education and also usually includes the building where this takes place.
Some secondary schools provide both lower secondary education (ages 11 to 14) and upper secondary education (ages 14 to 18), i.e., both levels 2 and 3 of the ISCED scale, but these can also be provided in separate schools.
What Is The Best High School In South Africa?
1. Orban School
Our list of the best high schools in South Africa begins in Johannesburg, with the Orban School. This gem offers a vibrant, bilingual (English and Afrikaans) education for learners from pre-primary up to grade 7.
They maintain smaller class sizes to ensure that each child receives individual attention, and their curriculum, rich in arts, provides a creative outlet to the young innovators and creators of tomorrow.
2. Spark Schools
School Fee: R28,050
Next up, we have the Spark Schools network—pioneers in delivering a unique blended learning model that combines traditional teaching with modern technology. With campuses across the country, Spark is committed to providing accessible, top-quality education to all.
Beyond academic excellence, they focus heavily on character development and community engagement—a truly holistic approach to education.
3. Assumption Convent School
School Fee: R120,000
Our list of the best high schools in South Africa continues in Germiston at the Assumption Convent School. This all-girls Catholic institution provides quality education from grade 000 right through to matric.
It has a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to grow spiritually, academically, and personally. The school’s dedicated educators guide students toward achieving their full potential.
4. The Ridge School
School Fee: R140,000
Nestled in the suburb of Westcliff, Johannesburg, The Ridge School is a leading independent preparatory school for boys. Its vast, picturesque campus provides a serene environment for the holistic development of students. The school focuses on critical thinking, leadership skills, and a solid foundation in key academic areas.
5. Roedean School
School Fee: R91,000
In the leafy suburb of Parktown, Johannesburg, we find Roedean School, a prestigious all-girls school renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, co-curricular activities, and leadership development.
The school’s impressive alumnae, spanning over a century, is a testament to the quality of education Roedean offers.
7. Johannesburg Muslim School
School Fee: R5,000
The Johannesburg Muslim School, an independent school based on Islamic principles, offers high-quality education from Grade 0 to Grade 12. It seamlessly blends secular academics with Islamic teachings to create a balanced learning environment that fosters academic achievement and spiritual growth.
8. Reddam House
School Fee: R72,500
Reddam House, part of the International Inspired network, is a co-educational, independent school that fosters academic, sporting, and cultural excellence.
Known for its innovative, child-centered teaching methods, Reddam House places a strong emphasis on individual growth and achievement.
9. Saint Stithians College
School Fee: R120,000
Now let’s turn our attention to Saint Stotjoams College. This institution prides itself on its robust academic program, complemented by a rich offering of co-curricular activities. Students are empowered to strive for excellence in a nurturing, supportive environment.
10. Radford House
Radford House in Fairland, Johannesburg, is a dynamic, progressive school that offers education for children from Grades R to 7.
With a commitment to small class sizes, the school ensures personalized attention, promoting excellence in academic, sporting, and cultural spheres.