Cape Town is considered to be the world’s most beautiful city, thanks to its picturesque beaches and mountains. However, it is one of the most expensive cities in all of Africa. If you are thinking about moving there, make sure that your children are attending a good school, because they will have to attend school every day while they are living there.
History of Boarding Schools in Cape TownÂ
Boarding schools were initially established in Cape Town to educate the city’s children. The first boarding school on the Cape Peninsula was the Collegiate School, which opened in 1811. Other schools followed, and by 1900 there were ten boarding schools educating students from all over the Cape Colony.
The early boarding schools were very strict and focused on discipline. Students were not allowed to leave the school grounds, and punishments for breaking rules were severe. This approach was successful in instilling discipline in the students, but it also prevented them from developing a sense of community.
Over time, boarding schools began to change their approach. They started to emphasize education rather than discipline, and they started to allow students to leave the school grounds to attend local events. This allowed the students to develop a sense of community and create connections with their peers.
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Benefits of Studying at Boarding in Cape Town
Some of the benefits of boarding school include:
- A unique educational experience that will broaden your horizons
- A supportive and nurturing environment that will help you develop as a person
- Opportunities for sports and extracurricular activities that you may not be able to find at other schools
- Improved communication skills because you will be interacting with a diverse group of people from around the world every day
What is a Boarding School?
A boarding school is a school where students reside on the premises. Boarding schools can be for specific ages, such as preschool, elementary, or secondary school, or they can encompass multiple grades and levels of education. Boarding schools offer a unique educational experience that allows students to live and learn with other students from around the world.
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Admission Criteria into Boarding Schools in Cape Town
To gain admission into a boarding school in Cape Town, prospective students must meet specific requirements. Some of the most important factors to consider include academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and socializing skills.
- Academic Requirements
Boarding schools in Cape Town require students to maintain a high level of academic performance. Admission officers look for students who have excelled in both academic studies and extra-curricular activities. Many boarding schools also require applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation from teachers and other notable figures.
- Extra-Curricular Activities
Students who are interested in boarding schools in Cape Town should demonstrate an active and involved lifestyle. Boarding schools want students who enjoy participating in various after-school clubs and organizations. Applicants should also show leadership skills and be keenly aware of their social responsibilities.
- Socializing Skills
Many boarding schools in Cape Town emphasize the importance of socializing skills. Admission officers want to ensure that students arrive at school each day ready to engage with their peers. Applicants should demonstrate strong communication skills, as well as the ability to build relationships with others.
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Application Process for Boarding Schools in Cape Town
- First, you will need to gather all of the necessary documents. This includes your original birth certificate, passport, ID card, and proof of residency (such as a utility bill).
- Next, you will need to fill out an application form. The school will provide you with a copy of this, but you must complete it completely and accurately.
- Finally, you will need to arrange a meeting with the school’s admissions team. This can be done by phone or in person. At this meeting, the team will ask you many questions about your family and your educational background.
Boarding Schools in Cape Town
The Diocesan School:
The Diocesan School is a boarding school located in the Cape Town suburb of Camps Bay. The school was founded in 1903 as a day school for boys by the then Bishop of Cape Town, The Most Reverend Cuthbert Colquhoun. In 1913, the school became a co-educational institution. Today, it educates around 350 boys and girls aged 13 to 18 years.
The Diocesan School offers a classical education combined with an international perspective. The Boarding School boasts excellent facilities including a library, computer lab, and rugby field. In addition, The Diocesan School offers enrichment programs such as music and drama.
The Bishop’s School:
The Bishop’s School is a boarding school located in Cape Town, South Africa. Established in 1892, the school currently has about 1,000 students from all over the world. The school offers a wide range of programs, including international baccalaureate, British independent, and comprehensive schools. The school also has an annual enrollment of around 260 students.
The Cape Conversion Training College:
The Cape Conversion Training College is a private boarding school that offers a wide variety of programs for students. Their main focus is on preparing students for college, but they also have programs specifically for teens and young adults.
The school has an excellent reputation and offers many opportunities for students to participate in extracurricular activities. They also offer a wide range of courses that allow students to explore their interests and passions.
The Bishop’s School for Girls:
Bishop’s School for Girls is a boarding school located in Cape Town, South Africa. The school was founded in 1885 and is the oldest girls’ boarding school in South Africa. Bishop’s School currently has an enrollment of around 480 students.
Bishop’s School offers both day and boarding programs to its students. The boarding program offers a traditional British education with a focus on rote learning and disciplined living. The day program provides an alternative to the traditional boarding experience by allowing students to live on campus.
The Maynard School of Cape Town:
The Maynard School of Cape Town is a boarding school located in the heart of Cape Town. Founded in 1892, it is one of the oldest and most respected schools in South Africa. The Maynard School offers a wide range of academic and athletic opportunities for students.
The school has a rich history and offers an excellent education. It attracts students from all over South Africa and around the world. The Maynard School is known for its high standards, strong academics, and positive environment.
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Average Tuition Fee for Boarding Schools in Cape Town
Here are the average tuition fees for boarding schools in Cape Town:
- Afrikaanskamp School – R1,500 per term
- Bishop’s School – R2,500 per term
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) – R5,000 per term
- Craighall School – R6,000 per term
- Gordon Institute – R8,000 per term
- Houghton College – R12,000 per term
- Kleinmond School – R13,000 per term
Conclusion
Boarding schools in Cape Town can provide a great education for your child, but they also come with some hefty costs. Before deciding to send your child to boarding school, be sure to do your research and compare prices.