Gauteng, the economic powerhouse of South Africa, is home to some of the country’s finest educational institutions. Whether you’re looking for a private or public high school, Gauteng offers a variety of options, each catering to different needs and preferences. In this article, we explore the Top 10 Best High Schools in Gauteng, examining their academic performance, fees, extracurricular activities, and overall reputation. This guide will help you make an informed decision when selecting the best high school for your child.
The Top 10 Best High Schools in Gauteng
1. St John’s College (Johannesburg)
Type: Private Anglican School
Grades: 8–12
Fees: R167,658 (tuition only); R352,850 (tuition and boarding)
Founded in 1898, St John’s College is one of Johannesburg’s oldest and most prestigious private schools. With a focus on academic excellence and a holistic approach to education, St John’s offers an impressive range of extracurricular activities, including rugby, cricket, drama, and music. The school is also renowned for its strong moral and ethical values, which contribute to the development of well-rounded individuals.
St John’s College is a leader in academic performance, consistently achieving top matric results. However, the fees are on the higher end, reflecting the premium education it provides.
2. Roedean School (Johannesburg)
Type: Private All-Girls School
Grades: 8–12
Fees: R218,877
Roedean School has long been recognized as one of the top all-girls schools in South Africa. Known for its outstanding academic results and commitment to empowering young women, Roedean offers a range of extracurricular activities, from leadership training to sports and the arts.
The school’s rigorous academic curriculum prepares students for top universities both locally and internationally. The fees reflect its prestigious status, but many families consider the cost justified by the quality of education and opportunities provided.
3. Parktown Boys’ High School (Johannesburg)
Type: Public All-Boys School
Grades: 8–12
Fees: R65,000 (tuition); R90,000 (boarding)
As one of the oldest public schools in Johannesburg, Parktown Boys’ High School has a strong legacy of excellence in both academics and sports. The school is known for producing well-rounded students who excel in a variety of fields, including academics, sports, and leadership.
The fees for Parktown Boys’ High are relatively affordable compared to private schools, making it a popular choice for families who want a high-quality education without the hefty price tag.
4. St Benedict’s College (Bedfordview)
Type: Private Catholic All-Boys School
Grades: 8–12
Fees: R116,000 (tuition); R210,000 (boarding)
St Benedict’s College was founded in 1958 and is known for its strong academic programme, religious ethos, and comprehensive extracurricular activities. The school places great emphasis on character development, teaching students not just academic skills, but also the importance of social responsibility and moral values.
While the fees are relatively high, St Benedict’s College offers excellent facilities and a well-rounded education, ensuring students are prepared for success in the modern world.
5. King Edward VII School (Johannesburg)
Type: Public All-Boys School
Grades: 8–12
Fees: R68,000 (tuition); R63,500 (weekly boarding); R75,000 (termly boarding)
With a history dating back to 1902, King Edward VII School is one of the most well-regarded public schools in Johannesburg. The school has consistently produced outstanding academic results, alongside excellent achievements in sport, arts, and leadership.
King Edward VII School is known for its disciplined environment and strong emphasis on moral and ethical values, helping to shape the leaders of tomorrow. The school offers an affordable education, especially for families looking for a public institution with a solid academic track record.
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6. Hoërskool Waterkloof (Pretoria)
Type: Public Co-Educational School
Grades: 8–12
Fees: R45,000 (tuition); R40,000 (boarding)
Hoërskool Waterkloof is one of Pretoria’s most prestigious schools, offering a world-class education with a strong emphasis on academic excellence. The school boasts a 100% matric pass rate for over 30 consecutive years, which speaks volumes about its commitment to quality education.
In addition to its academic achievements, Hoërskool Waterkloof offers a wide range of sports and cultural activities, providing a well-rounded education for its students. The school’s fees are relatively affordable compared to other top institutions, making it an attractive choice for many families.
7. St Mary’s School (Waverley, Johannesburg)
Type: Private Anglican All-Girls School
Grades: 8–12
Fees: R163,835–R204,140
As one of Johannesburg’s top all-girls schools, St Mary’s School is known for its strong academic programme, as well as its focus on character development and social responsibility. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and leadership opportunities, all of which help students become well-rounded individuals.
St Mary’s consistently achieves excellent matric results, making it a popular choice for parents seeking a prestigious educational institution for their daughters.
8. St Stithians College (Sandton)
Type: Private Methodist Co-Educational School
Grades: 8–12
Fees: R157,600 (tuition); R115,720 (boarding)
St Stithians College is a leading co-educational private school in Sandton, renowned for its high academic standards and holistic approach to education. The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports to arts, and is committed to producing well-rounded individuals who are prepared to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
The fees at St Stithians reflect its premium status, but the school’s comprehensive education and state-of-the-art facilities make it a top contender for families seeking a top-tier education.
9. Pretoria Boys High School
Type: Public All-Boys School
Grades: 8–12
Fees: Approximately R76,100
Pretoria Boys High School is a well-established public institution that has earned a reputation for academic excellence and a strong focus on extracurricular activities. The school is known for its exceptional sports programmes and academic results, making it one of the top schools in Pretoria.
Pretoria Boys High School offers affordable fees compared to private schools, making it a great option for families seeking a high-quality education without breaking the bank.
10. Barnato Park High School (Johannesburg)
Type: Public Co-Educational School
Grades: 8–12
Fees: Approximately R51,200
Barnato Park High School is an excellent public school offering a solid academic programme, alongside a wide range of sports and cultural activities. While it may not have the prestige of some of the other schools on this list, Barnato Park High School consistently produces strong academic results and is known for its inclusive environment and affordable fees.
For families seeking an affordable, well-rounded education, Barnato Park High School is a great option to consider.
Best High Schools in Gauteng
Choosing the right high school for your child is an important decision that can significantly impact their academic journey and future. Gauteng offers a wide variety of excellent schools, ranging from prestigious private institutions like St John’s College and Roedean School to exceptional public schools like Parktown Boys’ High School and Hoërskool Waterkloof.
Each of the Top 10 Best High Schools in Gauteng on this list offers a unique educational experience, with varying fees, facilities, and extracurricular offerings. By considering factors such as academic performance, extracurricular opportunities, and your family’s budget, you can select the right school for your child to thrive in.
