Gauteng is home to some of the best private preparatory schools in South Africa. These schools are known for their high academic standards, a well-rounded curriculum, and state-of-the-art facilities. If you’re a parent looking to provide your child with the best education possible, it’s essential to know which schools rank at the top and what fees to expect. Below are the best private primary schools in Gauteng, covering various areas, along with their school fees and a brief overview of what they offer.
Top 10 of The Best Private Primary Schools in Gauteng
1. St Stithians College (Johannesburg)

School Fees: R140,000 – R160,000 per annum
St Stithians is one of the most prestigious co-educational private schools in Johannesburg, offering a strong academic program and extracurricular activities like sports and arts. The preparatory school fosters a balanced learning environment with a Christian ethos.
2. Crawford Preparatory School (Sandton)

School Fees: R120,000 – R170,000 per annum
Crawford Preparatory Sandton is part of the larger CrawfordSchools network, known for its innovative educational methods. The school emphasises individualised attention, encouraging creativity and critical thinking through a broad curriculum that includes STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics).
3. Redhill Preparatory School (Morningside, Sandton)

School Fees: R100,000 – R170,000 per annum
Redhill Preparatory School offers a modern, inquiry-based curriculum designed to equip students with 21st-century skills. This co-educational school prioritises inclusivity, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to excel academically and socially.
4. St Peter’s Preparatory School (Paulshof, Sandton)

School Fees: R100,000-R120, 000 per annum
St Peter’s is a top choice for parents seeking a values-based education grounded in Anglican traditions. The school offers separate boys’ and girls’ preparatory programs, focusing on developing each child’s unique strengths. St Peter’s is well-known for its excellent academic performance and its commitment to community service.
5. King David Primary School (Linksfield, Johannesburg)

School Fees: R110,000 – R165,000 per annum
King David is one of the leading Jewish day schools in Gauteng, offering a strong academic program alongside Jewish cultural studies. The preparatory school’s curriculum balances academic rigour with extracurricular activities such as sports and music, promoting both intellectual and emotional growth.
6. Roedean School (Parktown, Johannesburg)

School Fees: R125,000 – R165,000 per annum
Roedean School is an all-girls private school known for its academic excellence and leadership programs. It offers a balanced education, emphasising not only academic success but also personal development and community involvement. The school’s historic campus in Parktown provides a beautiful setting for learning.
7. The Ridge School (Westcliff, Johannesburg)

School Fees: R135,000 – R165,000 per annum
The Ridge School is a boys-only preparatory school offering an excellent academic program designed to build leadership, creativity, and resilience. With small class sizes and a holistic approach, The Ridge encourages a love for learning while instilling moral values.
8. Pridwin Preparatory School (Melrose, Johannesburg)

School Fees: R143,000 – R195,000 per annum
Pridwin Preparatory School is a boys-only school that aims to provide an all-encompassing education, focusing on academic success, sports, and cultural development. The school’s motto, “Respects Conquers,” reflects its strong values-based education system, where respect and empathy are prioritized.
9. St Mary’s School (Waverley, Johannesburg)

School Fees: R124,000 – R153,000 per annum
St Mary’s is one of Gauteng’s oldest and most reputable girls’ schools, known for its high academic standards and strong sports and cultural programs. St Mary’s offers an enriched preparatory school curriculum designed to foster academic excellence and leadership among young girls.
10. Waterkloof House Preparatory School (Pretoria)

School Fees: R100,000 – R130,000 per annum
Waterkloof House Preparatory School (WHPS) is one of the best-known boys’ schools in Pretoria. With a tradition of academic excellence, WHPS focuses on nurturing well-rounded boys who excel in academics, sports, and leadership. The school also offers boarding facilities for boys from Grade 4 upwards.
Key Takeaways
- School Fees: The fees at these top schools range from R100,000 to R195,000 per year, depending on the school and its offerings. Many of these schools provide a range of extracurricular activities such as sports, arts, leadership training, and community service.
- Educational Excellence: Each of these schools offers a robust academic curriculum, with some focusing on specialized areas like STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and others integrating cultural or religious studies into their teaching.
- Facilities and Extra-Curricular: From modern facilities to boarding options, these schools provide students with a well-rounded educational experience designed to nurture their academic, social, and emotional growth.
FAQs
What are the benefits of private primary schools in Gauteng?
Private schools in Gauteng offer high academic standards, a broad range of extracurricular activities, and individualised attention.
How much do private primary schools cost in Gauteng?
Fees range from approximately R100,000 to R195,000 annually, depending on the school’s prestige, facilities, and offerings.
Are there boarding facilities available?
Yes, some schools, like Waterkloof House Preparatory School, offer boarding facilities, which are often available for students from Grade 4 upwards.
By understanding what these top schools offer and the fees they charge, parents can make an informed decision about the best educational fit for their children. Each school brings unique strengths, ensuring there’s a suitable option for every family’s needs.

