Parents who are looking for a completely unique approach to academics would want to enroll their high schools in Abbotts College Johannesburg. 

First things first – we admire how they are non-traditional the school is. While their focus is academics (so much so that they have no sports), they implement this in a student-centric way.

Abbotts College Johannesburg has no uniform policy, which we love because it encourages healthy self-expression. At the same time, we find it interesting and appealing that they don’t make use of any school bell in a bid to encourage students to manage their own time.

We think that through these, the school has created a culture where students feel free to thrive in their own ways. And when there is a supportive culture in place, students are assured that their success is genuinely at the heart of their teachers and mentors.

Another thing we love about Abbotts College Johannesburg is the way they focus on academics. Apart from students generally doing well, they also help those transferring from other schools improve their grades in order to get closer to their goals.

To do this, teachers’ lines remain open to their students even outside schooling hours, whether through WhatsApp or other online platforms. Homework is also supervised within schooling hours so that students can access the help they need, which is a refreshing approach.

Abbotts College Johannesburg releases 7 reports per student, which sounds like a lot. The great thing about this for us is that the shorter the period between the reports, the more intricately academic progress can be tracked.

Understandably, tuition here is higher than in most high schools. However, the institution offers monthly payment options via debit, as well as the option to pay the entire annual fee upfront with a good discount.

Known as another one of Joburg’s finest private schools, Eden College Lyndhurst boasts a focus on holistic education that we are sincerely impressed with. While they already have a reputation for academic excellence, this is bolstered by strong sports and cultural programmes. 

By offering different activities representing a range of interests, Eden College has ensured that students not only get to prepare well for further studies but pursue their passions and interests at the same time.

We also think that this sets up students for more than academic success. Being involved in extracurricular activities and clubs is a great way to apply themselves and hone their life and leadership skills.

In terms of academics, the school puts a strong focus on preparation for the coming academic years through a wide range of FET subjects. From various languages and visual art to consumer and business studies, Grade 10 to 12 students are spoilt for choice.

We think parents of high schoolers would be appreciative of this as their children would not be limited to a handful of specialties to choose from. They can mix and match and create a unique combination of subjects that suits their strengths and interests.

Private education is not accessible to many young people in the city, but we are pleased to know that Eden College offers plenty of academic and cultural scholarships. For us, this evens out the playing field and creates a more diverse profile of learners for the institution.

The only Afrikaans school in our list, Helpmekaar College has a long and deep history of excellence and heritage under its belt since 1921. This is evident in the number of current and former “Helpies” (as students are fondly called) testifying to the positive experience the school gives its students.

We are really wowed by the list of extracurricular subjects the school offers learners. From sports and culture to socials and clubs, there is certainly a place for every kind of student and aficionado here.

In fact, theirs is probably one of the most extensive selections of academic and support activities we’ve encountered. 

To us, this concretises Helpmekaar’s desire to create a culture of learning, camaraderie, and relationships among the student body. True to its school name, which literally means “Help each other,” the institution offers every opportunity for students to interact, learn, and socialise.

We are pleased that there is a consistent narrative to former and current Helpies’ review of their school. They commend it for encouraging them to be excellent in every aspect of life and for making sure that they receive a well-rounded education.

Of course, the limitation here is that the main language of instruction is Afrikaans. Native or near-native English speakers may struggle with this, but for those who are able to adapt, it looks like a warm and family-like culture of learning is waiting to welcome them.

After getting to know Roedean Senior School for ourselves, we can certainly say one thing: it’s a worthy investment for parents – if they can afford it.

Admittedly one of the most expensive private schools for girls in Joburg (it’s also a boarding school, so that explains the premium rates), Roedean is also one of the most beautiful. 

We think that walking the school grounds alone is already inspiring, as you become an audience of the works of famous architect Sir Herbert Baker. Parents and students alike commend the historical beauty and significance of the school structures, as well as the well-landscaped gardens. 

Academics-wise, the standout for us is Roedean’s Cognitivie Education Programme, which is the foundation of entire learning experience. We love that the school recognises the value of critical and creative thinking, thus infusing this into every subject area.

The first whole school to be accredited as a  Thinking School in South Africa, Roedean recently received Advanced Accreditation, again another first in the country. 

This is a proven indicator that the school is intentional in producing graduates who are able to grapple with and respond to relevant issues in the world today. We appreciate that the focus goes beyond perfect grades and academic accolades, but on producing valuable contributors in society and the world.

For instance, the school offers an Ethical Thinking course for Middle V, which provides a safe avenue for students to wrestle with the issues of our times.

Finally, another big plus for us is the integration of IT into its academic framework. Subjects such as coding and robotics and digital citizenship are included in the curriculum to prepare students to cope with the evolving technological demands of the world.

While Edenvale High School is not a private school, many parents testify that the quality of the education, programmes, and facilities are at par with these private school counterparts. 

With its three-prong focus on academics, culture, and sport, Edenvale impresses us with its approach to holistic education. Parents and students alike commend the school for offering such a well-balanced experience for all three.

As such, we aren’t surprised that there is a great selection of sporting and cultural activities that students can choose from. To us, this is definitive proof of the school’s thrust to offer every avenue for learners to grow and succeed, all while enjoying the experience.

The school also boasts of well-designed sports facilities that we think athletic students would really appreciate. We think it’s nice to see a school invest so much in its facilities, as this is the litmus test of their willingness to invest in their students’ experience.

Parents likewise commend the school administration and management team for being so well-organised. Events and activities are planned and executed well, and we think this is a fantastic bonus for meticulous parents and guardians.

They also appreciate the school for the energetic atmosphere they create for students to learn, as well as their kind and compassionate instructors.