When thinking of the best high school for your child, it is important to consider the location of the school. Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa, is home to some of the most prestigious high schools.
Are you in search of a private or public high institution for learning, or a boys-only or girls-only learning environment?
Pretoria has options to meet every student’s needs. Choosing the best academic institution is crucial as it affects the academic achievement, as well as discipline, personal development, and extracurricular activities of the student.
This article will take you through the top 10 high schools in Pretoria. This information will help you make informed choices for your child’s future.
Private High Schools in Pretoria
Private high schools in Pretoria offer tailored, quality education that meets the needs and desires of their students. They often design their curriculum around the specific values they uphold, which may include religious teachings or particular educational philosophies.
Whether your child’s interest is in the arts, sciences, or humanities, Pretoria’s private high schools offer specialised programs and subjects that will help them excel.
Some private high schools collaborate with universities to provide advanced placement programs that give students a head start in their academic and career paths.
Public High Schools in Pretoria
Public high schools in Pretoria receive funding from local, state, and federal governments and are established to provide basic education to all children in their communities. Through a balanced curriculum that merges academics with extracurricular activities, these institutions encourage innovation, sharpen critical reasoning, and build leadership potential.
Indeed, whether your child is interested in the sciences, humanities, or arts, these public high schools offer programs and subjects to help them excel.
Many of these schools prepare students for life after school and ensure that they have the necessary skills to succeed in the real world by providing career counselling, university preparation courses, and vocational training. Above all, most public schools collaborate with local universities to deliver advanced opportunities, thereby helping students get a head start on their future careers.
Boys’ High School in Pretoria
In Pretoria, there are high schools built for boys. These schools offer courses from arts and commerce to science and technology, and help students develop their talents in their areas of greatest passion.
Is your son interested in engineering, mathematics, leadership, or sports?
Boys’ schools provide him with the best environment to succeed, as activities beyond the classroom are essential for developing character and practical skills.
Participation in sports, leadership groups, cultural events, and outdoor programs helps build teamwork, confidence, and resilience. These schools teach core values that equip young men for life in society.
Looking ahead, these schools emphasize university preparation, career guidance, and mentorship. Some partner with professional organizations and higher learning centers to give students early exposure to real-world experiences. They aim to nurture well-rounded young men who succeed academically and are ready to lead in adulthood.
Girls’ High School in Pretoria
In Pretoria, girls’ high schools provide an environment where young girls can excel academically and personally. These schools give students the chance to uncover and strengthen their talents by offering courses across the sciences, mathematics, arts, and social studies.
Does your daughter have interest in creativity, leadership, or pursuing science? Girls’ schools provide the safest space to nurture these interests.
Beyond academics, extracurricular activities carried out in these schools are central to student growth. Sports, debating, community service, and cultural programs help build confidence, teamwork, and resilience.
These schools empower young girls, and prepare them to take on leadership roles and have a positive impact in society.
Looking ahead, girls’ high schools in Pretoria emphasize mentorship, career planning, and preparation for tertiary education. Many schools collaborate with universities to provide students with early access to academic and professional experiences. They aim to nurture confident, well-rounded young women ready to succeed in any path they pursue after graduation.
Top 10 High Schools in Pretoria and Their Fees
1. Crawford International Pretoria
Crawford International was first established in 1993 and has been in existence for over 25 years. This school is known as a home for students and parents’ hopes for a better future. It provides a solid foundation for learners from grades 8 to12 to attain academic excellence. Teachers are accredited to teach the students and support them in dealing with the day-to-day challenges they may face.
What makes Crawford International to stand out as one of the best high schools in Pretoria is its commitment to promoting global awareness, empowering student voice, and nurturing future-focused skills.
The academy exposes students to extracurricular activities, such as excursions, school tours, debating and lots more to ensure that every student can pursue their interests. The school is well-equipped with an auditorium, a modern science lab, music practice rooms, an art studio, and a computer center, all designed to enhance learning and overall development.
| Crawford International Pretoria Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +27 12 343 2257 |
| School Fees | R151 000 – R180 000 |
| Grades | 8 to 12 |
| pretoria@crawfordinternational.co.za | |
| Address | 555 Sibelius Road, Lukasrand, Pretoria |
| Website | crawfordinternational.co.za |
2. Tyger Valley College
Tyger Valley College is a leading private high school situated in the East of Pretoria. Founded by Centurus Colleges, this school has been in existence since 2015. Here, students thrive in a supportive environment guided by Christian-based values. The school has passionate and dedicated teachers who provide personalised attention to the students.
The school’s philosophy is to nurture lifelong learners who are confident, compassionate, and skilled across disciplines. The school provides excellent sports facilities, which include eight tennis courts, six netball courts, cricket fields with practice nets, hockey and rugby fields, and both indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools which are designed to meet competition standards.
Alongside a strong academic program, students have the opportunity to participate in STEAM clubs, robotics projects, hiking groups, and debate teams, as these activities sharpen critical thinking and nurture creativity in the minds of the students.
| Tyger Valley College Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | 012 809 2879 |
| School Fees | R119 500 – R132 000 |
| Grades | 8 to 12 |
| highschool@tygervalleycollege.co.za | |
| Address | Corner of Arthur & Graham Road, Shere, Pretoria East |
| Website | tygervalleycollege.co.za |
3. Hoërskool Waterkloof
Hoërskool Waterkloof, also known as Klofies, is a co-educational Afrikaans-medium school located in the eastern suburbs of Pretoria. This school was founded on 9 January 1979, and it stands out for its consistent academic excellence.
The school offers a comprehensive curriculum for Grades 8 to 12, and provides a nurturing atmosphere where students are encouraged to excel academically and personally, underpinned by a strong value system. The school offers a wide range of sports, including rugby, hockey, netball, athletics, and swimming, supported by a modern sports bureau established in 1997.
Klofies emphasises cultural development through activities like the school choir and orchestra, as well as annual events such as the Kultuurweek. This school features state-of-the-art classrooms, science laboratories, sports facilities, and boarding accommodations, providing a conducive environment for learning and growth.
Klofies has consistently been recognised for academic excellence, with multiple awards from the Gauteng Department of Education, including being named Academic School of the Year on numerous occasions.
| Hoërskool Waterkloof Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | 012 347 0277 |
| School Fees | R48 860 |
| Grades | 8 to 12 |
| klofies@klofies.co.za | |
| Address | Corner Boeing & Solomon Mahlangu Drive, Erasmuskloof, Pretoria 0048 |
| Website | klofies.co.za |
4. Clapham High School
Clapham High School stands as a well-respected English-medium public high school in Queenswood, Pretoria. It was founded in 1948 and accommodates students from Grades 8 through 12. About 1,300 students learn in their nurturing suburban campus where the students are taught by a dedicated team of about 100 staff members.
In Clapham High, academic life is balanced with a vibrant sports culture, sport houses in the school are named after the Terra Nova explorers. The school’s U15 boys’ soccer team has earned notable victories, winning Gauteng titles and even advancing to the CAF African Schools Championship final.
Arts and culture are woven into school life through traditions, school events, and inclusive educational values that focus on social responsibility and diversity. Clapham High’s campus includes modern classrooms and sports facilities that support both academic learning and extracurricular growth. These strengths combine to make it a truly balanced and engaging learning community.
| Clapham High School Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | 012 333 6011 |
| School Fees | N/A |
| Grades | 8 to 12 |
| admin@claphamhighschool.co.za | |
| Address | 1166 Soutpansberg Rd, Queenswood, Pretoria, 016 |
| Website | claphamhighschool.co.za |
5. Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool
Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool (Affies) is a prestigious all-girls Afrikaans school serving Grades 8 to 12. It is located in the heart of the jacaranda city The school is rooted in over a century of heritage. It supports about 1,200 learners, including 270 boarders from across South Africa and Namibia. The teachers here guide students with devotion and expertise in every classroom.
Affies has rich academic pursuits happening alongside arts and culture. A school orchestra of around 80 members performs at festivals and university events. In sports, more than 13 activities, including netball, athletics, equestrian, and cycling, allow students to explore interests and stay active. There are annual “derby weekends” with sister schools that bring excitement and unity.
The classrooms are modern and connected by Wi-Fi. At the same time, science labs, computer rooms, and laboratory spaces form part of a future-ready academy. The school’s values, built on faith, love, hope, and hard work, create a safe space for girls to grow with confidence. This nurturing environment helps each learner become well-rounded and ready to make a positive difference in the world.
| Afrikaanse Hoër Meisieskool Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | 012 344 3811 |
| School Fees | N/A |
| Grades | 8 to 12 |
| ahmp@ahmp.co.za | |
| Address | AHMP, Bond Street, Clydesdale, Pretoria, 0002 |
| Website | ahmp.co.za |
6. Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool
Afrikaans High School for Boys has existed since January 28, 1920. It is a proud Afrikaans all-boys school offering education from Grades 8 to 12. The school welcomes around 1,450 learners, led by dedicated teachers who guide young men to grow both in knowledge and character.
Each learner receives personal attention from teachers due to the small class sizes. On the sports field, Affies stands out with rugby, hockey, swimming, cricket, and athletics, producing alumni who have represented the nation on national games. The love for culture and music runs deep too, with students taking part in choirs, orchestras, and speaking clubs.
The school’s campus has modern classrooms with computers and projectors, a media center, boarding houses for Grade 8s, and a fitness hub. The school focuses on respect, leadership, and hard work which shapes the learning environment.
For parents who are looking for a good high school in Pretoria, where their wards will experience academic strength, discipline, and opportunity all in one place, Affies is a school that truly delivers.
| Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | (012) 344-3805/6/7 |
| School Fees | N/A |
| Grades | 8 to 12 |
| affies@affies.co.za | |
| Address | 1 Lynnwood Road Clydesdale, Pretoria |
| Website | affies.com |
7. Hoërskool Wonderboom
Hoërskool Wonderboom is located on the slopes of the Magaliesberg. It was established in 1949 and is known fondly as the Wonnies. It accommodates boys and girls from Grades 8 to 12 and guides them with strong academics and values. The teachers are dedicated and create a safe and supportive space where the learners can succeed.
Here, lessons are balanced with fun. The school offers nature-filled sports like rugby, hockey, soccer, swimming, and even jukskei and mountain biking. Creative students shine in music, drama, choir, and art contests. The famous school choir has performed beyond South Africa with great success.
Inside the school, students learn in modern classrooms, use science labs, work in media centers, and enjoy meals in their own on-site restaurant. The playground and fields buzz with energy. Wonderboom students often achieve top marks in the district, earning awards for academics and sport. This school is one of the most affordable high schools in Pretoria. It offers the kind of balance parents dream of for their children’s future.
| Hoërskool Wonderboom Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | (012) 335 6806 |
| School Fees | R28 600 |
| Grades | 8 to 12 |
| hswb@wonnies.co.za | |
| Address | Steve Biko Drive 1050 Wonderboom South Pretoria 0084 |
| Website | wonnies.co.za |
8. St. Alban’s College
Founded in 1963, St. Alban’s College is an English-speaking, all-boys school in Pretoria that welcomes learners from Grade 8 through Grade 12. From their very first day, students are guided by caring teachers in small classes that help them grow both in mind and heart.
Learning goes beyond books here. Boys compete in many sports like rugby, cricket, hockey, basketball, rowing, and more, which teach teamwork and self-respect. Artistic talents shine through drama, visual arts, and a world-renowned choir and Barbershop ensemble, which have won awards at home and abroad.
The school campus has modern science labs, technology-equipped classrooms, and a fantastic MakerSpace where boys build, code, and innovate. With such a rich blend of academics, creativity, and character, St. Alban’s stands out as a nurturing and top-tier choice for parents who want their sons to flourish both in school and in life.
| St. Alban’s College Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +27 12 348 1221 |
| School Fees | R201 060; Boarding: R353 580 |
| Grades | 8 to 12 |
| secretary@stalbanscollege.com | |
| Address | 110 Clearwater Road, Lynnwood Glen, Pretoria, 0081 Gauteng, South Africa |
| Website | stalbanscollege.com |
9. Pretoria Boys High School
Pretoria Boys High School is one of South Africa’s most respected all-boys schools. This institution was established in 1901 and is located in Brooklyn, Pretoria. The school is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, boasting a 100% pass rate in the National Senior Certificate examinations.
Students enjoy a variety of sports, from rugby and cricket to water polo. Arts are equally celebrated, with opportunities in drama, music, and photography.
The 85-hectare campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, science laboratories, sports fields, and boarding houses. This environment nurtures well-rounded individuals prepared for future challenges.
With a legacy of over a century, Pretoria Boys High School continues to shape young men of character and achievement. For parents seeking a school that balances tradition with innovation, it’s a choice worth considering.
| Pretoria Boys High School Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +27 12 460 2246 |
| School Fees | R73 750 – R76 900; Boarding: R165 550 – R168 700 |
| Grades | 8 to 11 |
| info@boyshigh.com | |
| Address | 251 Roper St , Pretoria, South Africa |
| Website | boyshigh.com |
10. Pretoria High School for Girls
The prestigious Pretoria High School for Girls (PHSG) was established in October 1902. It welcomes students from Grades 8 to 12 and offers a safe and inspiring environment where students thrive academically and personally.
PHSG provides learners with a weekly boarding facility in the form of two gracious hostels, North Lodge and School House. The school has dedicated teachers who ensure each girl receives guidance, support, and encouragement throughout her academic journey.
Academically, PHSG provides a wide range of curricula that include mathematics, sciences, languages, and arts, enabling students to explore their strengths. Outside of academics, learners engage in sports like netball and hockey, creative activities such as drama and music, debating, and cultural programs, all designed to foster teamwork, leadership, and self-confidence.
The campus boasts excellent facilities, from modern classrooms and science laboratories to sports fields and arts studios, enhancing the learning experience. PHSG places a lot of emphasis on excellence, personal development, and community engagement. These equip young women to achieve success in higher education and beyond, preparing them to become capable, confident, and well-rounded individuals.
| Pretoria High School for Girls Details | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +27 12 430 7341 |
| School Fees | R52 500 – R58 650; Boarding: R22 600 – R82 300 |
| Grades | 8 to 12 |
| info@phsg.org.za | |
| Address | 949 Park Street, Arcadia, Pretoria, Gauteng |
| Website | phsg.org.za |
