Are you curious about the best avenues for holistic education in Pretoria? Delve into this guide as we uncover the top 15 best boarding schools in Pretoria, each fostering academic excellence and personal development in unique ways.
Pretoria is a beacon of educational prowess, offering a diverse range of boarding schools catering to a spectrum of interests and aspirations. From a solid academic foundation to cultivating essential life skills, these institutions have carved a niche in providing a comprehensive learning experience.
If Gauteng is your desired location for study, check out the top 15 cheapest boarding schools in Gauteng and their fees.
Beyond the confines of traditional education, Pretoria’s boarding schools strive to create environments that nurture curiosity and foster a sense of community among students. The city’s rich history and cultural diversity permeate through the halls of these institutions, contributing to a vibrant tapestry of learning beyond textbooks.
In our journey through the top 20 boarding schools, we’ll explore their distinct educational philosophies and approaches. Some emphasize a rigorous academic curriculum, while others focus on creative arts, sports, or leadership development.
By understanding these unique offerings, prospective students and parents can make informed decisions about the best fit for their educational aspirations.
Top 15 Best Boarding Schools In Pretoria
Below is a comprehensive list of the top 15 best boarding schools in Pretoria, South Africa.
1. Pretoria Boys High School
- Tuition: R61,150-R63,800
- Boarding: R76,000 per annum
- Grade: 8-12
Founded in 1901, Pretoria Boys High School is a time-honored institution for boys. Spanning across an 85-acre campus southeast of the city center, it is one of the oldest schools in the province. With an impressive enrollment of approximately 1,500 pupils, it proudly holds the title of the largest boys’ school in South Africa.
At the heart of its Identity is an unwavering commitment to maintaining exceptional standards, reflected in its comprehensive approach to education encompassing academics, culture, and sports.
Operating as a public school, PBHS supplements its funding through school fees. Adding to its offerings, the school accommodates over 300 pupils across three boarding houses. No doubt, Pretoria Boys high school is one of the best boarding schools in Pretoria.
Related: Top 15 Best High Schools in Johannesburg South Africa
Documents required for application
- Latest school report
- Reference letter from current school
- SA Unabridged birth certificate OR Passport (if non-SA citizen)
- Mother/Guardian ID or Passport (if non-SA citizen)
- Father/Guardian ID or Passport (if non-SA citizen)
- Current pay slips if applying as a boarder
- Proof of residence
Contact Details
- Telephone:012 460 224
- Email: admissions@boyshigh.com
2. Cornwall Hill College Boarding
- Tuition: R70 550-R93 550
- Boarding: R70,900
- Grade: 8-12
Established in 2008, Cornwall Hill House caters to 60 boys, while the more recent addition, Tintagel House, inaugurated in 2014, provides lodging for 32 girls. Within this nurturing and supportive boarding environment, pupils can foster self-assurance and forge enduring friendships.
Cornwall Hill College Boarding presents an energetic and thriving community, effectively becoming a “home away from home.” Encouraging active participation in all school activities, the boarding experience aims to mold content and engage members of the school community.
Pupils are organized into family groups, each overseen by a dedicated Family Head responsible for their daily routines and pastoral well-being, resembling the care provided by parents.
Using shared activities designed to foster bonding, boys and girls have forged a sense of “brother and sisterhood,” reflecting the ethos of unity. This unity is embodied in their motto, “All for one and one for all.”
A meticulously structured program, closely monitored by the Boarding Staff and the Head of Boarding, ensures a harmonious equilibrium between academic pursuits and co-curricular engagements. The Boarding Residences offer academic support and monitoring to complement the student’s educational journey. This makes Cornwall Hill college one of the best boarding schools in Pretoria.
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Document required for application
- A clear copy of the Birth Certificate of the pupil
- A recent color photo of the pupil
- Clear copy of Identity and/or passport documents for both parents and guardians and fee payers.
- Clear copy of Utilities account for Proof of Residence (lights & water or rates & taxes account of less than three months old)
- Proof of payment of (non-refundable) the provisional application fee of R500 per child
- Academic report from the previous school (Applicable from Grades 1-11)
- Any legal documentation regarding pupil adoption papers or proof of legal guardianship, etc. (if applicable)
How many students are at Cornwall Hill College?
Currently, our enrollment is more than 1800 pupils, ranging from Grade 000 to Grade 12.
Contact Details
- Telephone:+27 12 667 1360
3. St. Alban’s College
- Tuition: R272,850 (Boarding & Tuition), R155,100 (Day Scholar)
- Grade: 8–12 (Forms I–V)
Situated in the Lynnwood Glen suburb of Pretoria, St. Alban’s College is a distinguished private high school exclusively for boys. Founded in 1963 by Anton Murray, the school operates as both a boarding and day institution, conducting its education in the English medium. English is one of the 11 Official Languages in South Africa.
Located within the Gauteng province of South Africa, St. Alban’s College boasts a rich history, substantial influence, impressive resources, and a renowned academic standing, collectively elevating it to prestige. Its counterpart for girls, St. Mary’s Diocesan School for Girls, Pretoria, shares a sisterly bond with the institution.
Contact Details
- Telephone: +27 12 348 1221
- Email: secretary@stalbanscollege.com
Related: Top 10 Best Online Schools In South Africa
4. Pretoria High School for Girls
- Tuition: R46 400.00-R51 820.00.
- Boarding: R72 200.00
- Grade: 8-12
Pretoria High School for Girls, commonly called PHSG, is a prominent English-medium high school situated in Hatfield, Pretoria, within South Africa’s Gauteng province. Functioning as a full-government institution with fees, PHSG is a counterpart to Pretoria Boys High School.
The school’s support base includes influential individuals and organizations, and it is backed by noteworthy figures such as Minister of Finance Pravin Gordhan and Minister of Health Aaron Motsoaledi, both of whom have daughters enrolled.
Additionally, PHSG has enjoyed patronage from the diplomatic community, with diplomats from countries such as Chile, Malawi, and Uruguay. Notably, the school has earned the distinction of being voted the best high school in Pretoria by the Pretoria News.
Required Documents when applying
- Unabridged Birth Certificate – A certified copy of your daughter’s unabridged (full) birth certificate (computer-generated certificate from the Department of Home Affairs). If unavailable, proof of application should be provided with a certified copy of an abridged birth certificate.
- ID Photo – Recent ID-style photograph of your daughter
- 2023 Term 1 Report – A certified copy of your daughter’s 2023 Term 1 report showing her and her school names.
- 2022 Year-End Report – A certified copy of your daughter’s previous year-end (2022) report showing her and her school names.
- Parent / Guardian Documents –
- certified copies of both parents/legal guardians’ RSA identity documents;
- Certified copies of death certificate/s should a parent or both parents be deceased;
- Certified copies of passports as well as work permits of parents who are Foreign Nationals.
- Legal Guardianship – In case of legal guardianship adoption, copies of legal documents produced by the courts (court orders) are required, including a certified copy of appointment from the Master of the Court to act as legal guardian/s. In case of divorce, upload a certified copy of the court order.
- Proof of Residence – Proof of the permanent residential address of both parents as well as the learner and legal guardian (only a valid government/parastatal or body corporate utility bill and lease agreement will be accepted) in the parents/legal guardian name or a certified copy of the lease agreement
- Immigrant Documentation –
- Immigrants must submit certified copies of both parents’ passports, permanent residence permits and relevant study permits, residence or work permits, as well as any other related permits (refugee permit /asylum seeker permit);
- In the event of Diplomats, Diplomats are to submit passports and Diplomatic identities.
- Letters of Employment – A letter of employment for each parent/legal guardian confirming work on an original company letterhead. The letter must –
- Be stamped by the Employer, and the signature of the Employer affixed over the stamp;
- Contain confirmation as to whether the parent is employed indefinitely or for a fixed term period;
- Confirm the parent/legal guardian’s work address and work contact number.
- Medical Aid Card – If the learner is on Medical Aid, a certified copy of both sides of the Medical Aid Card
How much does it cost to go to Pretoria Girls High School?
Fees for 2023 are as follows:
- School Fees Grade 8: R51 820.00.
- School Fees Grade 9-12: R46 400.00.
- Boarding Fees: R72 200.00 or R20 000.00 for the first three terms and R12 000 for the 4th term, payable before the start of each time.
Contact Details
- Telephone: +27 12 430 7341
- Email:info@phsg.org.za
Related: Top 15 Best Free Online Courses In South Africa
5. Willowridge High School
- Tuition: ZAR 29,950
- Grade: 8:12
Nestled within the Die Wilgers suburb of Pretoria in South Africa’s Gauteng province, Willowridge High School is a public English co-educational institution. Since its establishment in 1987, it has gained recognition as one of Pretoria’s premier academic institutions, and today listed as one of the best boarding schools in Pretoria.
Renowned for its educational excellence, Willowridge High School offers a comprehensive range of subjects, ensuring a diverse and enriching curriculum.
From core subjects like English, Afrikaans, and Mathematics to specialized areas such as Physical Science, Information Technology, Economics, and more, the school provides a comprehensive learning experience.
In addition to academic pursuits, students can explore various fields, including the arts, sciences, and practical disciplines. Through its extensive subject offerings, Willowridge High School facilitates a well-rounded education catering to different interests and aspirations.
Contact Details
- Email: headmaster@willowridge.co.za
6. Pro Arte Alphen Park
- Tuition: R61,750
- Boarding: R32,120
- Grade: 8-12
Pro Arte Alphen Park is a distinguished institution in Menlopark, Pretoria, within South Africa’s Gauteng province. This semi-private, English medium co-educational high school is renowned for its academic excellence and its strong focus on the arts. It proudly offers boarding facilities, further enhancing its educational experience.
Rooted in the legacy of the Pretoria Art School and the commercial school, Pro Arte Alphen Park preserves a rich heritage. With its multifaceted approach to education, the school embraces six distinct study fields. These encompass art, music, dance, drama, enterprise management, and hospitality studies.
By combining these areas of expertise, Pro Arte Alphen Park provides students with a holistic learning environment that nurtures their artistic talents and entrepreneurial skills. As one of Pretoria’s premier private schools, the institution is a beacon of academic and creative achievement.
What Subjects are Offered at Pro Arte Alphen Park?
Grades 8-and 9
- Compulsory subjects
- Edit
- English HL
- Mathematics
- Social Sciences
- Natural Sciences
- Technology
- Afrikaans FAL
- French SAL
- Life Orientation
- Economic and Management Sciences
- Arts & Culture
Main Focus Area Subjects
One of the following: All focus areas and acceptance at the school are subject to Auditions. Auditions must be passed.
- Drama
- Arts
- Music
- Enterprise Management (Accounting as the main subject)
- Hospitality
- Dance (Ballet, Jazz & Spanish)
Grades 10 to 12
Compulsory subjects
- Life Orientation
- English HL
- Afrikaans FAL
- Mathematics OR Mathematical Literacy
Optional subjects
- Tourism
- Visual Arts
- Dramatic Arts
- Dance Studies
- Hospitality Studies
- Accounting
- Physical Sciences
- Computer Applications Technology
- Information Technology
- Economics
- Geography
- Business Studies
- Life Sciences (Biology)
- French SAL
- Music
- Design
- History
Contact Details
- Telephone: +27124606221
- Email:info@proarte.co.za
Also Read: Top 10 Cheapest Universities in South Africa
7. St. Mary’s Diocesan School
- Tuition: R 85 200 per annum
- Boarding: R152 480 per annum
- Grade: 8-12
St. Mary’s Diocesan School for Girls, located on St Mary Road in the Kloof suburb near Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is a distinguished private boarding and day school exclusively for girls.
The school’s compound accommodates both a primary and high school, each with distinct areas, and they share certain facilities, such as the school hall, in rotation. In its earliest days, the school, known initially as St. Elizabeth’s Diocesan School for Girls, was established in 1906 atop Field’s Hill in Kloof town.
The institution later transitioned to its current location in 1909. It was subsequently renamed St. Mary’s Diocesan School for Girls in 1919, a change prompted by a generous benefactor. With its Anglican foundation, the school maintains a solid connection to its spiritual roots, as students participate in chapel sessions several mornings a week.
Contact Details
- Tel: +27 12 366 0503
- Email: admissions@stmarys.pta.school.za
8. Cornerstone College
- Tuition: R34,080
- Boarding: R48,00
- Grade: 8-12
Founded in 1991 by Sally and Rob Hurlin as a response to South Africa’s education crisis, Cornerstone College stands as a beacon of Christian values and quality learning.
Situated in Silverton, Pretoria, the college was conceived to offer a disciplined and secure educational environment. This initiative sought to extend the best possible education to disadvantaged students, all while keeping costs minimal.
With a committed vision, Cornerstone College has established itself as an independent High School and Hostel, offering education from Grades R to 12. Guided by a commitment to Christian principles, the institution provides an environment conducive to academic excellence and personal growth. Today, it has earned it’s place as one of the best boarding schools in Pretoria.
The college is dedicated to equipping its students with a solid educational foundation and invested in nurturing the future of South Africa through the development of its youth.
Contact Details
- Tel: 012 804 8350
- Email: admin@corncol.co.za
9. Hoërskool Waterkloof
- Tuition: R32,400
- Boarding: R40,000
- Grade: 8-12
Hoërskool Waterkloof, affectionately known as Klofies, is a prominent public Afrikaans medium co-educational high school in Pretoria’s eastern suburbs within the Gauteng province of South Africa.
Renowned for its academic excellence, this institution is recognized as one of the most esteemed Afrikaans medium schools, with an annual fee of R 32,400 per child.
Throughout its history, Hoërskool Waterkloof has consistently demonstrated exceptional academic prowess. This commitment to excellence has garnered several accolades, including being named the literary school of the year by the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) in 2004, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012.
Notably, in 2018, the school received the prestigious award for the best academic school in the Gauteng province, marking the ninth time since 2009.
With an impressive 100% matric pass rate spanning 30 consecutive years, Hoërskool Waterkloof is a testament to its dedication to providing quality education.
Contact Details
- Telephone: +27 12 347 0277
Related: Top 10 Best High Schools In South Africa
10. Redford House The Hills
- Tuition: R98,214-R103,583
- Boarding: R85,386
- Grade: 8-12
Redford House The Hills is one of the best boarding schools in Pretoria, established in 2015. It is located in Mooikloof Glen, Pretoria. It is an ideal boarding school to enroll in because its premium boarding facilities create a serene environment for boarders to live in.
At Redford House, The Hills, top-tier boarding facilities offer weekly and full-time boarding choices. This dynamic setup fosters an environment that encourages boarders to pursue excellence while relishing a fully engaged school experience within a lively campus atmosphere.
Contact Details
- Telephone: +27100600757
- Email: info@thehills.reddford.co.za
11. Waldorf School
- Tuition: R65,340 to R74,000
- Boarding: R98,000
- Grade: 8-12
Dr. Max Stibbe, a dedicated Dutch educationalist, co-founded the inaugural Waldorf School in The Netherlands nearly 49 years before establishing the first Waldorf School in Pretoria in 1972. His unwavering passion for education led him to teach our school’s initial cohort of learners well into his seventies.
His guidance not only enriched the students’ experiences but also served as an inspiration to the original teachers, instilling in them the essence of the Waldorf Way.
Initially, the school operated from the Brooklyn Scout Hall, where it thrived for two years. Eventually, the school found a new home on a picturesque smallholding in Kameeldrift, just north of Pretoria. In tribute to Dr. Stibbe’s legacy following his passing in 1973, the school underwent a renaming process.
In 2016, the school embraced a new identity, becoming “THE WALDORF SCHOOL at Rosemary Hill.” This rebranding aimed to align more closely with the global WALDORF educational system, a heritage of pride and success spanning nearly a century.
With over a thousand institutions worldwide, including schools, kindergartens, and training centers, the international WALDORF system is a testament to Dr. Stibbe’s enduring influence.
Contact Details
- Email:info@thewaldorfschool.co.za
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12. Die Hoërskool Menlopark
- Tuition: R37,200
- Boarding:R44,800
- Grade: 8-12
Situated in Pretoria’s Menlo Park suburb within the Gauteng province of South Africa, Die Hoërskool Menlopark, affectionately referred to as Menlo or Parkies, stands as a co-educational public high school with an Afrikaans medium of instruction. The school’s vibrant student body identifies themselves as Parkies. Today, the list of the best boarding schools in Pretoria will not be complete without the mention of the Die Hoerskook Menlopark.
With its inception dating back to 1963, Die Hoërskool Menlopark was established by the accomplished artist Bettie Cilliers-Barnard.
In its nascent form, the school comprised 12 classrooms, catering to 372 students spanning grades 8, 9, and 10, which were referred to as Standards 6, 7, and 8 at the time. Notably, Cilliers-Barnard was also the creative mind behind the school’s emblem, infusing it with her artistic vision.
Contact Details
- Telephone: +27 12 361 7738
- Email:info@menlopark.co.zT
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13. Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool
- Tuition: R49,800
- Boarding: R49,185
- Grade: 8-12
Nestled within Pretoria’s Gauteng province in South Africa, Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool, fondly referred to as Affies, proudly stands as a public Afrikaans medium high school exclusively for boys. Its location graces the suburb of Elandspoort.
In the historical year of 1920, the school was established through the collaborative efforts of Jan Joubert and Reverend Chris Neethling. This significant moment also saw the simultaneous founding of its counterpart, Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool Pretoria.
14. Afrikaans Hogere Skool
- Tuition: R33,200
- Boarding: R60,000
On the 28th of January in 1920, the Afrikaans Hogere Skool commenced its journey within the premises of General PJ Joubert’s residence. Situated at 218 Visagie Street, Pretoria, this establishment marked a significant milestone as the pioneer Afrikaans-language secondary school, a daring move given that Afrikaans was not yet an official language in South Africa.
The school held a unique stance as a rebel institution, opening its doors to both boys and girls. A momentous shift occurred on the 26th of January in 1927, with the unveiling of a new school building. This pivotal period also marked the inception of separate institutions for boys and girls: Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool and Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool, respectively, in 1930.
Rooted in the essence of Jan F.E. Celliers’s poem “By die vrouebetoging,” the school’s motto, “Ek sien haar wen,” embodies its spirit, resilience, and triumph.
Related: Top 10 Private Schools in Gauteng
Best Boarding Schools For Girls In Pretoria
The following is a quick list of the best boarding schools for girls in Pretoria:
- The Waldorf School at Rosemary Hill
- Willowridge High School
- Redford House The Hills
- Cornerstone College
- Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls
- Cornwall Hill College
- Pretoria High School for Girls
- St. Mary’s Diocesan School for Girls
Cheapest Boarding Schools In Pretoria
- The Waldorf School at Rosemary Hill
- Waterkloof House Preparatory School
- St. Mary’s Diocesan School For Girls
- Die Hoërskool Menlopark
- Willowridge High School
- Redford House The Hills
- St. Alban’s College
- Pretoria High School for GirlsPretoria Boys High School
FAQs About Pretoria’s Best Boarding Schools
How Much Does Boarding School Cost in Pretoria?
The affordability of the best boarding schools in Pretoria can vary significantly, with monthly expenses ranging from R2,500 to R6,000 or potentially higher in specific cases.
However, it’s essential to note that annual school fees for most of Pretoria’s boarding schools fall within R45,000 to R250,000. It’s critical to remember that these figures exclude any additional boarding fees that might apply.”
Is Boarding School a Good Idea in South Africa?
Boarding schools in South Africa are renowned globally for their excellence, offering students an exceptional education within an enriching learning environment. These institutions boast smaller class sizes than public schools, fostering personalized attention. Additionally, students benefit from diverse spaces for independent study, further enhancing their educational journey.
At What Age Is Boarding School Beneficial?
While the optimal age for boarding school isn’t set in stone, experts generally suggest that the period between 8 and 13 years is well-suited for initiating a boarding school education.
This window aligns with crucial developmental stages, allowing students to adapt well to the residential learning environment while thriving academically and personally.
Best Boarding Schools In Pretoria (Summary)
The best boarding schools in Pretoria offer excellent academic programs, a nurturing and supportive environment, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
These institutions allow students to grow academically, socially, and personally, preparing them for future success.
When choosing a boarding school, it’s essential to consider factors such as faculty expertise, facilities, student well-being, and overall educational philosophy to make the best decision for your child’s education.
