The Essentials
Type of School: Day, Private
Fees per year: ZAR32 000.00 to ZAR98 000.00
Address: PO Box 734, Greytown, 3250, South Africa
Phone Number: 082 551 8005
Principal: Mr. Trevor Harbottle
Number of pupils:400+
Age Range: 3 -18
Email: admissions@hmbschool.co.za
Website: https://www.hmbschool.co.za/
Table Of Contents
- Overview
- Contact Details
- Address
- Location
- School Fees
- Courses & Programs
- Vacancies and Entry Requirements
- Logo
- School Uniform
- Notable Alumni
- Pros and Cons
- Author’s Review
Overview
Hermannsburg School, established in 1856 by German missionaries, is the oldest independent co-educational boarding school in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Located in the hamlet of Hermannsburg, near Greytown, the school offers a comprehensive education from early childhood (18 months) through Grade 12.
Academic Programs
The primary language of instruction is English, complemented by an intensive German language program. Additionally, the school offers Afrikaans and isiZulu as second language options. The curriculum emphasizes academics, music, and outdoor activities, providing a well-rounded education.
Boarding Facilities
Hermannsburg School provides boarding facilities for students in Grades 8 through 12, with separate accommodations for boys and girls:
Männerheim: Boys in Grades 8–12.
Mädchenheim: Girls in Grades 8 and 9.
Neues Mädchenheim: Girls in Grades 10–12.
Each boarding house offers shared rooms, typically accommodating two to three students per room.
Campus Facilities
The campus is equipped with modern amenities to support both academic and extracurricular activities, including:
Separate computer centers and libraries for the junior and senior schools.
Sports facilities such as a swimming pool, tennis and basketball courts, rugby, cricket, hockey, and soccer fields, as well as volleyball nets.
Historical Significance
Founded by the Hermannsburg Missionary Society, the school holds the distinction of being the first boarding school in the former Natal province. The campus includes historical structures like the Old Mission House, one of the three oldest dated buildings in KwaZulu-Natal, and the oldest hostel building in South Africa.
Community and Culture
Hermannsburg School maintains strong ties with its German heritage while embracing a diverse student body. The institution fosters a multicultural environment, promoting inclusivity and a global perspective among its students.
Hermannsburg School Contact Details
You can contact Hermannsburg School via their landline, email or you can visit their website for further contact details.
Phone Number: 082 551 8005
Email: admissions@hmbschool.co.za
Website: https://www.hmbschool.co.za/
Hermannsburg School Address
PO Box 734, Greytown, 3250, South Africa
Hermannsburg School Location
Hermannsburg School is situated in a small settlement called Hermannsburg under the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa.
Hermannsburg School Fees
Hermannsburg School’s fees is currently standing between ZAR32 000.00 to ZAR98 000.00 per year depending on the grade you are in. Please visit the website for more correct information or call them on their office number as fees can change yearly.
Hermannsburg School Courses & Programs
Hermannsburg School offers a well-rounded curriculum and various programs catering to students from Early Childhood to Grade 12.
Academic Curriculum
Foundation Phase (Grade R – Grade 3)
Core subjects include: English (Home Language), Afrikaans or isiZulu (First Additional Language), Mathematics, Life Skills
Intermediate Phase (Grade 4 – Grade 7)
Core subjects include: English (Home Language), Afrikaans or isiZulu (First Additional Language), Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Technology, Social Sciences (History and Geography), Life Skills
Senior Phase (Grade 8 – Grade 9)
Subjects offered: English (Home Language), Afrikaans or isiZulu (First Additional Language), Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences (History and Geography), Economic and Management Sciences (EMS), Creative Arts (Visual Arts and Drama), Technology, Life Orientation
Further Education and Training Phase (Grade 10 – Grade 12)
Hermannsburg School follows the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) curriculum, which culminates in the National Senior Certificate (NSC).
Compulsory subjects: English (Home Language), Afrikaans or isiZulu (First Additional Language), Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, Life Orientation
Elective subjects include: Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Geography, History, Business Studies, Accounting, German (as a First or Second Additional Language), Visual Arts
German Language Program
Hermannsburg offers intensive German language courses:
From Grade R to Grade 12
Opportunity to earn internationally recognized qualifications such as the German Language Certificate (Deutsches Sprachdiplom – DSD)
Music Program
Comprehensive music education, including:
Music theory and practical lessons
Instrumental training (piano, violin, guitar, etc.)
Choirs, ensembles, and individual performances
Participation in regional and national music events
Sports Program
A variety of sports activities are offered to encourage physical development and teamwork:
Rugby, soccer, cricket, and hockey
Netball, volleyball, tennis, and basketball
Swimming and athletics
Extracurricular and Cultural Activities
Drama and public speaking
Art and design workshops
Debating
Community service programs
Participation in the Eco-Schools program
Outdoor Education
Environmental and outdoor learning activities, including:
Nature walks
Field trips
Adventure-based learning experiences
Boarding and Life Skills Program
Hermannsburg offers boarding facilities with programs that support personal growth, independence, and life skills development.
Hermannsburg School Vacancies and Entry Requirements
Application Process:
Online Application: Complete the online application form available on the school’s admissions portal.
Required Documents: Submit necessary documents as specified during the application process.
Application Fee: Pay the R500 admission fee.
Interview and Assessment:
Prospective students and their parents may be invited for an interview with the Executive Head.
Placement assessments or entrance examinations may be required, depending on the grade level.
Grade-Specific Requirements:
Grade 1 Admissions:
Applications should be submitted by July of the applicant’s Grade R year.
Placement assessments may be conducted to ensure readiness for Grade 1.
Grade 8 Admissions:
Applications should be submitted before the end of the applicant’s Grade 6 year.
Entrance assessments are typically conducted during Open Days in March of the year preceding admission.
Scholarship applications may be invited in April, with offers made in May.
International Applicants: Non-resident students must comply with specific conditions, including visa requirements and proof of guardianship if applicable.
Hermannsburg School Logo
Below is the logo of Hermannsburg School with excellent quality and it is available to download in PNG (transparent file) JPEG and PDF.
Hermannsburg School Logo
Hermannsburg School Pros and Cons
Pros
Strong Academic Focus
Hermannsburg School offers a rigorous academic curriculum that prepares students for the National Senior Certificate (NSC).
The school consistently maintains high academic standards, with a focus on preparing students for further education and the workforce.
Christian-Based Education
Hermannsburg School provides a Christian-based education, emphasizing moral values, spiritual development, and a strong sense of community.
Students are encouraged to develop not only academically but also spiritually, fostering a well-rounded character.
Small Class Sizes
The school is known for its small class sizes, allowing for more individualized attention and fostering a closer relationship between students and teachers.
Smaller classes promote a conducive learning environment and help address the specific needs of each student.
Extracurricular Opportunities
Hermannsburg offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, music, and cultural programs.
These activities provide students with opportunities to develop their talents outside the classroom and promote teamwork, leadership, and creativity.
Personal Development and Values
The school emphasizes the development of personal values, leadership, and community involvement.
Students are encouraged to participate in community service projects, enhancing their sense of responsibility and empathy.
Scenic and Peaceful Location
Situated in a tranquil setting in the countryside, the school offers a peaceful environment conducive to learning and personal reflection.
The serene atmosphere allows students to focus on their studies and personal growth without the distractions of urban life.
Strong Sense of Community
The school fosters a tight-knit community, where students, staff, and parents work closely together to ensure the success and well-being of all.
The school’s small size helps maintain a family-like atmosphere that contributes to a sense of belonging and support.
Cons
Limited Variety of Subjects
While Hermannsburg offers a solid academic foundation, the range of subjects available for selection in senior grades may be more limited compared to larger schools.
Students with very specific academic interests may find fewer options for specialization.
Smaller School Size
The small student body can be a disadvantage for those who prefer a larger, more diverse social environment.
The school’s size can also result in fewer social events and extracurricular opportunities, such as competitive sports teams, compared to bigger institutions.
Limited Boarding Facilities
While Hermannsburg does offer boarding facilities, they may be more limited than those of larger schools, which may affect availability.
Students living in the boarding house might have fewer recreational facilities or activities during downtime.
Higher Fees
As a private institution, Hermannsburg’s tuition fees can be higher than those of public schools, which might be a financial strain for some families.
While the school offers a quality education, the cost of enrollment and additional expenses may be prohibitive for some families.
Smaller Sports Program
Although Hermannsburg offers sports programs, the variety and competitiveness may be more limited compared to larger schools with more resources dedicated to athletics.
Students with a strong passion for a particular sport may find fewer opportunities for specialized coaching or competition.
Limited Access to Urban Amenities
The school’s rural location, while offering a peaceful environment, may limit access to urban amenities, such as shopping centers, entertainment, and other services.
Students who are used to the conveniences of city life may need to adjust to the quieter, more isolated setting.
