International Education in Cape Town
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Considering a move to Cape Town, with kids in tow? Then here’s some good news: South Africa has the cheapest fees in the world for international schools. As well as enjoying the views of Table Mountain and the South Atlantic ocean, the intriguing mix of cultures and the affordable cost of living, you can rest assured your children will get a stellar education too.
Cape Town is the second biggest city in South Africa and is no stranger to expats. There is a wide range of international schools to choose from in various neighbourhoods of the city. While you will find a handful in or close to the city centre, the southern suburbs of Kenilworth, Claremont and Rosebank offer more choice. Just outside the city, the beautiful coastal town of Bloubergstrand also has several international schools.
With its history as a British colony, it’s unsurprising that Cape Town’s international schools mainly teach the British curriculum. This city is a true melting pot of cultures and nations however, so you’ll also find South African, French, German, and the Waldorf curriculum on offer. All schools cater for children up to the age of 18. While most teach primary and secondary levels, some will only cater for second level students (from age 12 or 13).
South Africa’s state schools have a pretty poor reputation when it comes to standards of education. International schools in the country are privately run however, so you can expect similar standards to international schools around the world. In big cities like Cape Town, schools also come with impressive facilities and smaller than average class sizes.
The academic year in international schools in Cape Town begins in August and finishes in June. In general the school day begins at around 8am and finishes at 2 or 3pm. Most schools offer a range of extracurricular activities, or ‘supervised study’ for the older students.
Many International schools in South Africa make religion a core part of their approach. In Cape Town there are several Catholic, Anglican or more general Christian schools. Boarding schools also have a long history here and you will find a selection in or around Cape Town. These schools are generally the most well-established and traditional, but don’t worry if boarding isn’t desirable; they also have ‘day school’ options for students too.
The newer international schools in Cape Town tend to be more modern. They emphasise a ‘global education’ for students, preparing them for university education and for life anywhere in the world. Both types of school, long-established and traditional or new and modern, will provide your child with a top-class education. Neither category is better than the other - it all depends on you and your child.
Below, we have compiled the top 10 international schools in Cape Town according to our users. However, there are another 19 schools to choose from in the city. You can find the best international school for your child by personalising your results. Just fill in your search criteria, and we will calculate a personal score for every international school in Cape Town based on your requirements.
