Bloemfontein High Schools are a group of schools in South Africa. They have been around for over a hundred years and have been changing with the times by adding new courses and programs which lead to the creation of the Bloemfontein High School Foundation.
History of Bloemfontein High Schools
Bloemfontein High Schools (BHS) is a group of nine public high schools in Bloemfontein, South Africa. The schools were established throughout the early 20th century and are now administered by the Free State Department of Education. BHS offers a broad range of academic programs, from the ordinary high school diploma to vocational qualifications.
The main BHS campuses are located in the city center, while additional campuses are located in suburbs such as Diepkloof and Randfontein. The first school in Bloemfontein was founded in 1892 as a primary school on De Kock Street. A secondary school was also established that year, but it did not have any formal links with the primary school.
In 1906, two separate secondary schools were merged to form Bloemfontein High School, which moved to its present location on Church Street the following year. In 1918, a new high school was built on Victoria Road in response to overcrowding on Church Street. This building operated as both a secondary school and an adult education center until 1967 when it became exclusively an educational institution for young people.
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Benefits of Studying in Bloemfontein High Schools
- Excellent facilities, including laboratories, libraries, and sports facilities.
- A well-qualified and experienced staff.
- Affordable tuition fees.
- Opportunities to participate in various extracurricular activities.
Eligible Criteria for Admission into Bloemfontein High Schools
- You must have achieved a passing grade in the SSC exams.
- You must be a resident of Bloemfontein.
- You must not have any disciplinary record at school.
- You must be able to speak and write English fluently.
The curriculum at Bloemfontein High Schools
At Bloemfontein High School, students take a broad range of courses that prepare them for university. Some of the most popular courses include: English, mathematics, science, business and information technology, art, and music.
The school also offers a wide variety of electives that allow students to explore their interests in depth. In addition to traditional subjects like maths and science, students can also choose to specialize in areas like dance or drama.
All high school pupils are required to take the National Senior Certificate Examination (NSC). This exam is designed to measure how well a student has mastered the basics of learning. The results of the NSC determine whether a student can continue their studies at a tertiary institution.
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Top Bloemfontein High Schools
- Parktown Boys’ High School
Parktown Boys’ High School is undoubtedly one of the top high schools in Bloemfontein. It was established in 1883 and has consistently ranked among the best schools in South Africa. The school offers a wide range of courses, including technical and vocational education as well as academic subjects. Additionally, Parktown Boys’ High School is known for its strong rugby and cricket teams.
- St Joseph’s College
St Joseph’s College is another excellent option for students looking for a top school in Bloemfontein. Established in 1889, it is one of the oldest secondary schools in the area and offers a variety of courses that appeal to both academic and vocational students. The college also boasts a strong athletics program, with teams competing at various levels throughout the country.
- Zion Christian College (ZCC)
Zion Christian College is unique among the high schools in Bloemfontein because it is an all-boys institution. This can be an advantage for some students, as it allows them to focus on their studies without having to worry about competing with girls for grades or spots on teams. ZCC also offers excellent academic programs and strong sporting facilities, making it an excellent choice for students who want to pursue a career in either field.
- Hilton High School
Hilton High School is another highly respected institution in Bloemfontein. It was founded in 1904 and has consistently been among the top-performing schools in South Africa. The school offers a diverse range of courses, from vocational training to tertiary-level studies. It has an excellent sporting program, with teams competing in various leagues across South Africa.
- Gariep High School
Gariep High School is also a very good school. It was established in 1875 and it has a long history of producing successful citizens. It provides an excellent education with plenty of opportunities for students to develop their skills and interests. The school also has strong links with industry, which helps to prepare students for future careers.
- Voortrekker High School
Voortrekker High School is a very good school and it has many famous alumni, including Nelson Mandela and Ford’s dad Alan Ford. It offers a wide range of courses, from standard academic subjects to more specialized programs. It also has excellent facilities, such as an Olympic-size swimming pool, a large sports field and a library which is second to none in the city.
- St Augustine’s College
St Augustine’s College is one of the oldest schools in Bloemfontein and it was founded in 1848 by the Dutch Reformed Church as a boarding school for boys. Today, it continues to offer an excellent education to both boys and girls, with a focus on preparing its students for future careers. The college has beautiful facilities, including an impressive library which contains more than 130,000 books.
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Application Process into Bloemfontein High Schools
The process of applying to a high school in Bloemfontein is as follows:
- Go to www.bloemfontein.gov.za and click on “Schools” on the left-hand menu
- On the School Information Page, click on “Apply Now”
- Complete the online application form and attach any relevant documents (academic transcripts, proof of residence, etc)
- Once all required documents have been submitted and verified, your application will be processed and you will be contacted for an interview
- If you are successful in being offered a place at one of our schools, you will need to pay your school fees ASAP.
Average Tuition Fee for Bloemfontein High Schools
The average tuition fee for Bloemfontein high schools is R2,500 per term. This fee includes the cost of tuition, books, and mandatory fees (such as student union membership). The most expensive school to attend in Bloemfontein is King William’s College, which charges students an annual tuition of R5,000.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How big is the student body?
A: The student population in Bloemfontein ranges from around 1,500 students to over 6,000 students. The average enrollment size is around 2,500 students.
Q: What are the admission requirements?
A: All applicants must have completed at least grade 10 and must have an overall good academic record. In addition, applicants must have an acceptable IQ score and be registered with the South African Medical Association (SAMA).
Q: What kind of courses are available?
A: The high schools in Bloemfontein offer a variety of courses that include traditional subjects like mathematics, science, and English as well as more specialized disciplines like law and commerce.
Q: Are there any extracurricular activities available?
A: Yes, there are plenty of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities such as sports, music groups, and debating clubs.