Boarding schools in South Africa are private schools that primarily serve the needs of students from abroad, with higher tuition fees than local government-run schools. However, they provide a mix of education and care for students who are often removed from their parents and communities.
History of Boarding Schools in South Africa
Boarding schools have a long and varied history in South Africa. They were first introduced to the country by British settlers in the late 1800s and became popular among the white population. African students were not allowed to attend boarding schools at the time, so they were sent to missionary schools instead.
In the early days of democracy, South Africa was a diverse country with many cultures and languages. This made it difficult for children from different backgrounds to socialize and learn. Boarding schools were seen as a way to provide a uniform education for all children, regardless of their race or background.
Today, boarding schools play an important role in the education system in South Africa. They offer a quality education that is tailored to each student’s needs. They also play an important role in developing character and leadership skills.
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Benefits of Studying in South Africa Boarding Schools
Boarding schools in South Africa offer students a variety of benefits not found in traditional schools. These include:
More Independence: Boarding students are more independent and have more freedom to explore their interests and passions.
For Creativity and Innovation: Boarding students are often given more opportunities to experiment and try new things, which can lead to greater intellectual development.
Greater Exposure to other Cultures: Students at boarding schools in South Africa are often exposed to various cultures, which can open their minds to new perspectives and ways of life.
For Physical Activity: Boarding students are often required to participate in a variety of physical activities, which can improve their fitness and overall well-being.
More Opportunities for Social Interaction: Boarding students generally have more opportunities for social interaction than students at traditional schools, which can lead to stronger friendships and connections later on in life.
Admission Requirements into Boarding Schools in South Africa
There are many different boarding schools in South Africa, each with its admission requirements.
Some of the more common admission requirements into boarding schools in South Africa are:
- A good academic record
- A valid passport
- A high IQ
- Fluent in English
- Good physical health
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How to Apply for Admission into South Africa Boarding Schools
- Research the School you are interested in. Find out what type of students they accept, what the curriculum is like, and how expensive tuition is.
- Fill out an Application form and send it with your resume and test scores to the school you have chosen. Make sure to include contact information so that the school can contact you if they have any questions.
- Attend a visit or interview at the school. This will allow you to ask questions and get a feel for the atmosphere.
- Submit your application package ASAP. Schools receive a large number of applications each year, and some may choose not to accept any applicants.
Average Cost of Boarding Schools in South Africa
According to The Telegraph, the average cost of boarding schools in South Africa is R2.5 million per year. This amount includes both tuition and room and board. Boarding schools in South Africa can range in price from a small private school that charges around R350,000 per year to a more prestigious international school that charges upwards of R8 million.
If you’re looking to find an affordable boarding school for your child, you’ll likely want to look into private schools. These schools tend to be much cheaper than their international counterparts, with the average tuition coming in at just over R1 million per year.
However, if you’re willing to shell out a bit more money, international boarding schools can be a great option for your children. These schools typically charge between R3 million and R8 million per year but offer a greater variety of programs and opportunities than private schools.
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Programs Offered at Boarding Schools in South Africa
Boarding schools in South Africa offer a variety of programs to meet the needs of students. These schools provide an environment where students can learn and grow in an organized setting.
Some of the programs offered at boarding schools in South Africa include:
- International Baccalaureate program
- American School System
- English as a Second Language program
- Specialized courses for gifted and talented students
- Sports programs
- The arts
- Computer Science program
List of Boarding Schools in South Africa
- The Academy at Claremont:
This boarding school is based in Claremont, Johannesburg, and offers a wide range of subjects, from primary to high school. The Academy strongly focuses on sports and outdoor activities, which helps foster character development.
- Kearsney College:
Kearsney College is based in Durban and offers an excellent education for both boys and girls. The school has a rich tradition, with many alumni going on to successful careers both within South Africa and abroad.
- The Cape York Peninsula School:
The Cape York Peninsula School is based in Port Douglas and offers an Australian-style education. It is one of the few boarding schools in South Africa that offers an International Baccalaureate program.
- The Gordon Institute:
Gordon Institute is based in Johannesburg and offers a unique mix of academic programs for students aged 11-18 years old. It offers access to some of the best private schools in Johannesburg as well as sports facilities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many students are enrolled in a typical boarding school in South Africa?
A: There is no typical number of students that are enrolled at a boarding school in South Africa. However, the majority of schools typically have between 30 and 100 students enrolled during the academic year.
Q: What is the curriculum like at a boarding school in South Africa?
A: The curriculum at a boarding school in South Africa varies depending on the specific school you choose to attend. However, most boards offer a variety of subjects such as English, mathematics, science, history, geography, and arts.
Q: What are the different types of boarding schools in South Africa?
A: There are a few different types of boarding schools in South Africa, these include independent boarding schools, state-owned boarding schools, and co-educational boarding schools.