South Africa’s educational landscape includes several prestigious schools renowned for their outstanding academic programs and holistic development. These institutions are distinguished not only by their excellence in education and cutting-edge facilities but also by their status as some of the most expensive in the country. The fees at these elite schools reflect their dedication to delivering a top-tier educational experience, encompassing premium instruction, extensive facilities, and a wide range of enrichment opportunities. This list of the top 10 most expensive schools in South Africa for 2024 showcases the schools that offer unparalleled educational experiences, catering to families seeking the best in academic and personal development for their children.
1. Reddam House
Reddam House is a renowned co-educational private school that offers a dynamic, holistic education from early learning to matriculation. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, Reddam House provides an environment that fosters critical thinking, creativity, and leadership. The school has multiple campuses across South Africa, with prominent locations in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Pretoria.
Academic and Extracurricular Offerings
Reddam House follows the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) curriculum, providing students with a rigorous and internationally recognized education. The school emphasizes academic excellence across all disciplines, offering a broad curriculum that includes sciences, humanities, arts, and languages.
In addition to its strong academic program, Reddam House offers a wide range of extracurricular activities. These include sports such as rugby, cricket, swimming, tennis, and hockey, as well as arts programs in music, drama, and visual arts. The school is equipped with modern facilities, including science labs, performing arts centers, and sports fields, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education.
Fees
The annual tuition fees for Reddam House vary depending on the campus and grade level. For 2024, fees range from approximately ZAR 100,000 to ZAR 250,000 per year. These fees cover tuition and basic activities, with additional costs for uniforms, textbooks, and certain extracurricular activities.
Location
Reddam House has several campuses in key cities:
Reddam House Atlantic Seaboard: Green Point, Cape Town
Reddam House Constantia: Constantia, Cape Town
Reddam House Helderfontein: Fourways, Johannesburg
Reddam House Waterfall Estate: Midrand, Johannesburg
Reddam House Bedfordview: Bedfordview, Johannesburg
Contact Details
For more information or to schedule a visit, you can contact the respective Reddam House campuses:
Reddam House Atlantic Seaboard (Cape Town):
Phone: +27 21 433 0105
Email: admissions@reddam.house
Reddam House Constantia (Cape Town):
Phone: +27 21 702 2322
Email: info@reddam.house
Reddam House Helderfontein (Johannesburg):
Phone: +27 10 060 7630
Email: helderfontein@reddam.house
Reddam House Waterfall Estate (Midrand):
Phone: +27 11 024 0697
Email: waterfall@reddam.house
Reddam House Bedfordview (Johannesburg):
Phone: +27 11 455 1906
Email: bedfordview@reddam.house
Website: www.reddamhouse.com
Reddam House remains one of South Africa’s leading private schools, offering a comprehensive education that prepares students for both local and international success.
2. St. John’s College
St. John’s College is a prestigious Anglican school for boys, located in Houghton, Johannesburg. Founded in 1898, the school has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence, leadership development, and a commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. The school serves students from pre-preparatory through to matric, with a co-educational environment at the pre-preparatory level.
Academic and Extracurricular Offerings
The school follows the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) curriculum, known for its rigorous academic standards. Students at St. John’s College benefit from state-of-the-art science laboratories, a well-stocked library, music and art studios, and extensive sports facilities. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and various clubs, encouraging holistic development.
Fees
For 2024, the annual tuition fees at St. John’s College range from approximately ZAR 130,000 to ZAR 200,000, depending on the grade level. These fees cover tuition, while additional costs may be incurred for uniforms, boarding, and extracurricular activities.
Location
St. John’s College is situated in the upscale suburb of Houghton, Johannesburg, offering a picturesque campus with a blend of historic architecture and modern facilities. The address is:
St. John’s College
St David Road,
Houghton,
Johannesburg,
2198,
South Africa
Contact Details
For more information or to arrange a visit, you can contact St. John’s College at:
Phone: +27 11 645 3000
Email: info@stjohnscollege.co.za
Website: www.stjohnscollege.co.za
St. John’s College continues to be a top choice for families seeking a premier education that emphasizes both academic excellence and character development.
3. Pretoria Boys High School
Pretoria Boys High School is one of South Africa’s most prestigious public schools, offering a comprehensive education for boys from grades 8 to 12. Established in 1901, the school has a rich history of academic excellence, leadership, and sportsmanship. Situated on a 85-hectare campus in the heart of Pretoria, the school is renowned for its traditional values, strong academic program, and vibrant extracurricular offerings.
Academic and Extracurricular Offerings
Pretoria Boys High School follows the South African National Curriculum (CAPS) and prepares students for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations. The school is known for its high academic standards, particularly in mathematics, science, and languages. It offers a broad range of subjects, including advanced programs in sciences, humanities, and arts. The school’s academic excellence is reflected in its consistently high pass rates and the large number of students who achieve distinctions.
Pretoria Boys High School offers an extensive extracurricular program that includes a wide range of sports, cultural activities, and clubs. The sports program is particularly strong, with facilities for rugby, cricket, hockey, swimming, athletics, and more. The school has produced many provincial and national sportsmen over the years.
Cultural activities include debating, public speaking, drama, music, and art. The school has a well-regarded music department, offering individual and group instruction in various instruments, as well as opportunities to participate in choirs and orchestras. The school also places a strong emphasis on leadership development, with various leadership roles and programs available to students.
Fees
As a public school, Pretoria Boys High School offers high-quality education at a more accessible fee structure compared to private schools. For 2024, the annual fees are approximately ZAR 65,000 to ZAR 75,000, depending on the grade level. Boarding fees are additional for students who stay on campus.
Location
251 Roper Street, Brooklyn, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
Contact Details
Phone: +27 12 460 2246
Email: info@boyshigh.com
Website: www.boyshigh.com
Pretoria Boys High School continues to uphold its tradition of excellence, providing a well-rounded education that prepares young men for success in both their academic pursuits and future careers.
4. King David High School
King David High School is a prominent Jewish school in South Africa, known for its strong academic performance, cultural enrichment, and commitment to Jewish education. The school operates under the South African Board of Jewish Education and is dedicated to providing a balanced education that fosters both academic achievement and spiritual growth.
Academic And Extracurricular Offerings
King David High School offers a rigorous academic curriculum from grades 8 to 12, following the South African National Curriculum (CAPS). The school is renowned for its excellence in mathematics, sciences, languages, and humanities. The academic program is designed to prepare students for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, with a strong emphasis on achieving high standards across all subjects. The school also integrates Jewish studies into the curriculum, offering courses in Hebrew, Jewish history, and religious studies.
King David High School offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that cater to various interests. Sports are a significant part of school life, with students participating in sports such as soccer, netball, swimming, tennis, and athletics. The school has a proud tradition of sporting excellence and regularly competes in inter-school competitions.
Cultural activities at King David High School include debating, drama, music, and art. The school encourages participation in choirs, orchestras, and theatre productions, fostering a vibrant cultural environment. Additionally, there are various clubs and societies, including chess, public speaking, and environmental awareness groups. The school places a strong emphasis on community service and leadership development, encouraging students to take on leadership roles and engage in social responsibility projects.
Fees
For 2024, the annual fees at King David High School are approximately ZAR 125,000 to ZAR 145,000, depending on the grade level and specific requirements. These fees cover tuition and most extracurricular activities. Additional costs may apply for specific programs, trips, or materials.
Location
100 Club Street, Linksfield, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
Contact Details
Phone: +27 11 480 4500
Email: info@kingdavid.co.za
Website: www.kingdavid.org.za
King David High School is committed to fostering academic excellence, cultural enrichment, and a strong sense of Jewish identity, preparing students for success both in their academic careers and as active members of the global Jewish community.
5. Bishops Diocesan College
Bishops Diocesan College, commonly known as Bishops, is one of South Africa’s most prestigious independent schools for boys. Established in 1849, the school is renowned for its high academic standards, extensive extracurricular programs, and strong Anglican traditions. Bishops is dedicated to developing well-rounded individuals who excel in academics, sports, culture, and leadership.
Academic And Extracurricular Offerings
Bishops offer a rigorous academic curriculum from grades 8 to 12, following the South African National Curriculum (CAPS) and the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) syllabus. The school has a strong emphasis on academic excellence, particularly in subjects like mathematics, sciences, languages, and humanities. Bishops prepare students for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) with an impressive track record of high pass rates and university entrance qualifications. Bishops boasts a comprehensive extracurricular program that includes a wide range of sports, cultural activities, and clubs.
The school has a strong sporting tradition, with facilities for rugby, cricket, hockey, swimming, rowing, tennis, and athletics. Bishop teams regularly compete at a high level in regional and national competitions. Cultural activities are equally emphasized, with students participating in music, drama, debating, and visual arts. The school has a vibrant music department, offering opportunities to join choirs, orchestras, and bands. The drama department is known for its high-quality productions, and the art department encourages creativity and expression. In addition to traditional academic subjects, Bishops incorporates modern technology and innovative teaching methods to ensure that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the 21st century. The school also offers advanced placement courses and enrichment programs for gifted students.
Fees
For 2024, the annual fees at Bishops Diocesan College range from approximately ZAR 180,000 to ZAR 250,000, depending on the grade level and whether the student is a day scholar or boarder. These fees include tuition, extracurricular activities, and boarding where applicable. Additional costs may be incurred for specific programs, excursions, or materials.
Location
65 Campground Road, Rondebosch, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Contact Details
Phone: +27 21 659 1000
Email: info@bishops.org.za
Website: www.bishops.org.za
Bishops Diocesan College is committed to providing a world-class education that nurtures academic excellence, leadership, and character development, preparing boys to succeed in an ever-changing global landscape.
6. Hilton College
Hilton College is one of South Africa’s most prestigious all-boys boarding schools, known for its exceptional academic standards, rich traditions, and stunning natural surroundings. Founded in 1872, Hilton College is renowned for its commitment to developing well-rounded young men who excel academically, athletically, and culturally.
Location
Hilton College Road, Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Academic And Extracurricular Offerings
Hilton College offers a robust academic program aligned with the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) syllabus, catering to students from Grades 8 to 12. The school is renowned for its academic excellence, consistently achieving high university entrance rates and producing top-performing students across various subjects. Emphasizing holistic education, Hilton fosters critical thinking, creativity, and intellectual curiosity, providing a strong foundation in core subjects such as mathematics, science, languages, and humanities, alongside a diverse range of electives including information technology, art, and drama. The school also supports students with advanced academic interests, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience that extends beyond traditional classroom learning.
In addition to academics, Hilton College boasts an extensive array of extracurricular activities designed to nurture students’ talents and interests. The school has a rich sporting tradition, with state-of-the-art facilities for rugby, cricket, hockey, tennis, squash, swimming, and rowing, and a reputation for developing athletes who excel at regional, national, and international levels. Culturally, the school is vibrant, offering opportunities in music, drama, debating, and visual arts, supported by a well-established music department, active drama productions, and a dynamic visual arts program. Hilton College also places a strong emphasis on leadership development and community service, with an outdoor education program that leverages the school’s expansive 1,600-hectare estate, providing unique opportunities for adventure, environmental education, and personal growth.
Fees
For 2024, the annual fees at Hilton College are approximately ZAR 369,920. This fee covers tuition, boarding, and most extracurricular activities. Additional costs may apply for specific programs, trips, or materials.
Contact Details
Phone: +27 33 383 0100
Email: admissions@hiltoncollege.com
Website: www.hiltoncollege.com
Hilton College is committed to providing an exceptional education that nurtures academic excellence, character development, and leadership skills, all within a supportive and inspiring environment.
7. Redhill School
Redhill School, located in Morningside, Johannesburg, is a prestigious co-educational independent school that offers a comprehensive academic program from pre-primary through to Grade 12. Founded in 1907, the school is known for its commitment to excellence in academics, arts, and sports, fostering a nurturing environment that encourages holistic development.
Academic and Extracurricular Offerings
Redhill School follows the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) curriculum, preparing students for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams. The school is recognized for its strong academic performance, with a focus on critical thinking, creativity, and global citizenship. Beyond academics, Redhill offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports such as soccer, tennis, swimming, and hockey, as well as cultural activities like drama, music, art, and debating. The school also emphasizes leadership development and community service, providing students with numerous opportunities to engage in meaningful initiatives.
Fees
As of 2024, the annual tuition fees at Redhill School range from approximately ZAR 95,000 for lower grades to ZAR 160,000 for upper grades. Additional costs may include extracurricular activities, uniforms, and other school-related expenses.
Location
Redhill School is situated at 20 Summit Road, Morningside, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa.
Contact Details
Phone: +27 11 783 4707
Email: info@redhill.co.za
Website: www.redhill.co.za
Redhill School’s commitment to academic excellence, along with its wide range of extracurricular offerings, makes it a leading institution in South Africa, dedicated to developing well-rounded individuals prepared for future success.
8. St. Mary’s School Waverley
St. Mary’s School, Waverley, is an esteemed independent Anglican girls’ school located in Johannesburg. Established in 1888, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious girls’ schools in South Africa, offering education from preschool to matric (Grade 12). The school is known for its strong academic program, values-driven education, and commitment to empowering young women.
Academic and Extracurricular Offerings
St. Mary’s School follows the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) curriculum, with a focus on achieving academic excellence and developing critical thinking skills. The school has a reputation for outstanding matric results, with many students progressing to top universities in South Africa and abroad. In addition to core academic subjects, St. Mary’s offers a range of elective courses and advanced programs in science, arts, and humanities.
Extracurricular activities are an integral part of life at St. Mary’s, with a wide array of options available. The school boasts strong programs in sports, including tennis, hockey, swimming, and netball, with students regularly competing at regional and national levels. The cultural life at St. Mary’s is vibrant, with opportunities to participate in music, drama, debating, and visual arts. The school also places a strong emphasis on leadership development, community service, and spiritual growth, encouraging students to become compassionate and responsible global citizens.
Fees
As of 2024, the annual tuition fees at St. Mary’s School, Waverley, range from approximately ZAR 100,000 for lower grades to ZAR 170,000 for higher grades. Additional costs may include fees for extracurricular activities, uniforms, and other school-related expenses.
Location: St. Mary’s School is located at 55 Athol Street, Waverley, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa.
Contact Details
Phone: +27 11 531 1800
Email: info@stmary.co.za
Website: www.stmaryschool.co.za
St. Mary’s School, Waverley, is renowned for its tradition of academic excellence, its comprehensive extracurricular offerings, and its commitment to nurturing well-rounded, confident young women ready to make a difference in the world.
9. Roedean School
Roedean School (SA) is a prestigious independent girls’ school in Johannesburg, South Africa, affiliated with the original Roedean School in the United Kingdom. Established in 1903, Roedean is known for its strong academic tradition, commitment to holistic education, and focus on developing young women who are confident, compassionate, and prepared to lead in the global community. The school offers education from Grade 0 to Grade 12.
Academic and Extracurricular Offerings
Roedean School follows the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) curriculum, with a consistent track record of excellent matric results. The academic program is rigorous, with a broad selection of subjects including mathematics, sciences, languages, and humanities, along with elective courses in arts, drama, and information technology. Roedean emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving, preparing students for top universities in South Africa and around the world.
Extracurricular activities are integral to the Roedean experience. The school has a rich tradition in sports, offering facilities and programs in swimming, tennis, hockey, netball, and athletics. Roedean teams regularly participate in regional and national competitions, achieving high levels of success. The cultural program is equally robust, with opportunities for students to engage in music, drama, visual arts, and debating. The school is particularly known for its music department, with choirs, orchestras, and individual music lessons available. Additionally, Roedean has a strong focus on community service, leadership development, and environmental awareness, with programs designed to instill a sense of social responsibility in students.
Fees
As of 2024, annual tuition fees at Roedean School range from approximately ZAR 120,000 for younger grades to around ZAR 200,000 for senior grades. Additional costs may include fees for extracurricular activities, uniforms, and other school-related expenses.
Location
Roedean School is located at Princess of Wales Terrace, Parktown, Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa.
Contact Details
Phone: +27 11 647 3200
Email: info@roedeanschool.co.za
Website: www.roedeanschool.co.za
Roedean School is highly regarded for its academic excellence, extensive extracurricular offerings, and dedication to producing well-rounded, socially conscious young women who are equipped to succeed in an ever-changing world.
10. The International School of Cape Town
The International School of Cape Town (ISCT) is a respected independent school offering a globally-focused education in Cape Town, South Africa. Established in 1998, ISCT provides an international curriculum catering to students from diverse cultural backgrounds. The school is known for its inclusive, supportive environment, and commitment to fostering global citizenship and academic excellence. ISCT offers education from pre-primary through to Grade 12.
Academic and Extracurricular Offerings
ISCT follows the Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) curriculum, offering programs leading to the IGCSE and A-Level qualifications, which are recognized by universities worldwide. The academic program is comprehensive, with core subjects including mathematics, sciences, English, and humanities, alongside electives such as art, music, drama, and modern languages. The school’s teaching philosophy emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, ensuring students are well-prepared for higher education and global opportunities.
Extracurricular activities at ISCT are diverse, aiming to develop students’ talents and interests beyond academics. The school offers a range of sports, including soccer, basketball, swimming, and tennis, with teams competing in local leagues. Culturally, ISCT provides numerous opportunities for students to participate in music ensembles, drama productions, and visual arts. The school also emphasizes community engagement, offering programs in leadership development, environmental awareness, and social responsibility.
Fees
As of 2024, annual tuition fees at ISCT vary by grade level, with fees ranging from approximately ZAR 85,000 for the early years to around ZAR 190,000 for senior grades. Additional costs may include fees for extracurricular activities, school trips, uniforms, and other related expenses.
Location
The International School of Cape Town is located in Wynberg, Cape Town, South Africa, nestled in a picturesque setting with views of Table Mountain.
Contact Details
Phone: +27 21 761 6206
Email: info@isct.co.za
Website: www.isct.co.za
The International School of Cape Town is distinguished by its international curriculum, commitment to global citizenship, and a broad array of extracurricular opportunities, making it a top choice for families seeking a well-rounded, globally recognized education for their children.
