Top 10 Best Private Secondary Schools In South Africa

South Africa’s education system is as dynamic as the country itself—diverse, ambitious, and deeply invested in shaping future leaders. While public schools remain the backbone of education, private secondary schools have carved a strong reputation for offering world-class academics, modern facilities, and holistic development that extends well beyond the classroom.

With smaller class sizes, passionate educators, cutting-edge facilities, and an impressive range of extracurricular activities, these schools are not only raising academic standards but also nurturing confident, well-rounded individuals ready to thrive in a competitive world.

In this 2025 guide, we’ll explore the top 10 private secondary schools in South Africa. Whether you’re a parent looking for the right fit for your child or a student curious about where the best opportunities lie, this list highlights schools known for their heritage, innovation, and all-round excellence.

Why Private Secondary Schools?

Before jumping into the rankings, here’s why so many South African families choose private secondary education:

• Academic Excellence: Private schools consistently achieve high matric pass rates and produce distinctions well above the national average. Smaller classes also allow teachers to focus on individual students.

• Holistic Growth: Sports, arts, music, drama, debating, and leadership programmes ensure students leave with more than just academic knowledge.

• World-Class Facilities: Science labs, tech hubs, arts studios, and sporting arenas rival those found in universities.

• Global Outlook: Many schools offer IEB, Cambridge, or IB curricula, preparing students for opportunities abroad.

• Networking Advantages: Prestigious alumni networks and university partnerships often open doors long after graduation.

The Top 10 Private Secondary Schools in South Africa (2025)

1. St John’s College – Houghton, Johannesburg

Founded in 1889, St John’s College is one of South Africa’s most prestigious boys’ schools. Its reputation rests on a tradition of discipline, academic rigour, and strong moral values.

• Academics: Exceptional matric results, with high distinction rates under the IEB curriculum.

• Facilities: State-of-the-art labs, sports fields, and a library that rivals small universities.

• Beyond Classrooms: Drama, debating, music, and a strong sports culture. Boarding is also available.

Why it stands out: Over 130 years of heritage and an alumni network that stretches across the globe.

2. Roedean School – Parktown, Johannesburg

Established in 1903, Roedean is an all-girls school with a strong legacy of empowering young women.

• Academics: Consistently outstanding matric results with a strong emphasis on critical thinking.

• Facilities: Innovative technology centres, art studios, and excellent sports facilities.

• Beyond Classrooms: Leadership programmes, cultural initiatives, and community service are core to its ethos.

Why it stands out: A balance of tradition and modern innovation, with a mission to develop confident, independent leaders.

3. Redhill School – Morningside, Johannesburg

With more than 115 years of history, Redhill is one of the few schools offering both IEB and International Baccalaureate (IB) qualifications.

• Academics: Dual pathways give students flexibility and access to global universities.

• Facilities: Advanced science labs, a modern library, and creative arts studios.

• Beyond Classrooms: Extensive sports and cultural programmes designed to develop creativity and teamwork.

Why it stands out: Forward-thinking curriculum choices and consistently high results.

4. SAHETI School – Bedfordview, Johannesburg

Founded in 1974 with guidance from human rights lawyer George Bizos, SAHETI blends academic excellence with inclusivity.

• Academics: Strong matric performance with a focus on creativity and critical thinking.

• Facilities: Science and computer labs, modern sports facilities, and arts spaces.

• Beyond Classrooms: Diverse extracurriculars including community service and leadership clubs.

Why it stands out: A welcoming, multicultural environment rooted in progressive teaching.

5. Crawford International Sandton – Johannesburg

As part of the Crawford Schools group, this institution is known for its global perspective and contemporary approach.

• Academics: High pass rates and distinction averages, with a forward-looking curriculum.

• Facilities: Digital labs, sports complexes, and performing arts centres.

• Beyond Classrooms: Strong emphasis on public speaking, drama, music, and sport.

Why it stands out: A modern school designed for the global stage.

6. Durban Girls’ College – Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

Founded in 1877, this prestigious all-girls school has been a pioneer of academic excellence for nearly 150 years.

• Academics: Exceptional results and a reputation for preparing students for top universities.

• Facilities: Expansive campus with science labs, cultural centres, and sports fields.

• Beyond Classrooms: Drama, community service, and sports complement a strong academic programme.

Why it stands out: A blend of tradition, discipline, and empowerment of young women.

7. Herzlia High School – Cape Town, Western Cape

This independent Jewish day school in Cape Town offers a strong cultural heritage alongside academic achievement.

• Academics: Consistently excellent matric results with strong distinction rates.

• Facilities: Science labs, sports fields, arts centres, and modern classrooms.

• Beyond Classrooms: Cultural clubs, sports, and active community projects.

Why it stands out: Academic excellence within a culturally rich, values-driven environment.

8. King David Linksfield – Johannesburg, Gauteng

King David Linksfield is a co-educational institution with a strong tradition of academic success and cultural balance.

• Academics: High matric performance with a focus on creativity and problem-solving.

• Facilities: Top-class library, labs, and sporting facilities.

• Beyond Classrooms: Drama, debate, music, and sports form part of a vibrant school culture.

Why it stands out: Balanced academics and a supportive community ethos.

9. Kingsmead College – Johannesburg, Gauteng

Established in 1933, Kingsmead is an all-girls school with a mission to develop character and leadership.

• Academics: High matric pass rates and a curriculum focused on independent thinking.

• Facilities: Arts centres, labs, sports complexes, and modern classrooms.

• Beyond Classrooms: Strong programmes in leadership, service, and cultural activities.

Why it stands out: Emphasis on moral values, leadership, and empowerment.

10. St Mary’s Waverley – Johannesburg, Gauteng

One of South Africa’s oldest independent girls’ schools, St Mary’s combines heritage with academic strength.

• Academics: Outstanding matric results with high distinction averages.

• Facilities: Advanced labs, extensive sports facilities, and excellent boarding options.

• Beyond Classrooms: Cultural programmes, music, and leadership development.

Why it stands out: A heritage school with modern excellence and world-class facilities.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Private School

• Location & Accessibility: Decide between day or boarding options and consider transport logistics.

• Culture & Values: Match your family’s ethos with the school’s traditions and outlook.

• Curriculum: Check whether they offer IEB, IB, or Cambridge qualifications.

• Facilities: Science labs, arts centres, and sports complexes enrich learning.

• Costs: Private education is a major investment—compare tuition, boarding, and extra fees.

• Alumni Network: A strong alumni community can provide mentorship and career advantages.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right school is about more than academic results—it’s about finding an environment that nurtures your child’s character, passions, and potential.

Whether you’re drawn to the heritage of St John’s and St Mary’s, the innovation of Redhill and Crawford International, or the cultural richness of Herzlia and SAHETI, each of these schools has proven itself as a leader in South African education.

Private schools may require a significant investment, but many families view it as one of the most important decisions they’ll ever make—shaping not just a student’s future, but their identity and opportunities in life.

As you weigh your options, visit campuses, speak to parents and alumni, and consider your child’s personality and goals. The right school will not only challenge them academically but will also inspire them to grow into leaders, innovators, and changemakers.