The Essentials
Type of School: Day, Private
Fees per year: ZAR74 000.00 to ZAR79 000.00
Address: 51 College Road, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Phone Number: +27 (0)33 342 9376
Headmaster: Dr. Christopher Luman
Number of pupils: 1 300+
Age Range: 14-18
Email: info@mcollege.co.za
Website: www.maritzburgcollege.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
Maritzburg College is one of South Africa’s oldest and most prestigious boys’ schools.
Founded: 1863 as the Pietermaritzburg High School, it became Maritzburg College in 1888.
Legacy: The school has a rich history, with its traditions and values rooted in discipline, academic excellence, and character development.
Location
Maritzburg College is located in Pietermaritzburg, the capital city of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The school is situated on College Road, just outside the central business district, surrounded by a vibrant environment with easy access to cultural and historical landmarks.
Boarding
Maritzburg College offers extensive boarding facilities:
Boarding Houses: Cater to boys from across South Africa and other countries.
Life in Residence: Focuses on academic support, camaraderie, and personal growth.
Structure: Housemasters, staff, and prefects ensure a structured and disciplined environment.
Notable Alumni
Maritzburg College boasts an impressive list of alumni who have excelled in various fields:
Sports: Several Springboks and national-level cricket and hockey players.
Academics: Distinguished scholars and professionals.
Leadership: Alumni have gone on to leadership roles in politics, business, and society.
Tradition and Values
Maritzburg College upholds a tradition of excellence while emphasizing:
Respect and discipline.
A sense of brotherhood among students (referred to as “College boys”).
An ethos of service to the community.
Community Involvement
The school is involved in various outreach programs and community service initiatives, teaching students the importance of giving back to society.
Maritzburg College Contact Details
You can contact Maritzburg College via their landline, email or you can visit their website for further contact details.
Phone Number: +27 (0)33 342 9376
Email: info@mcollege.co.za
Website: www.maritzburgcollege.co.za
Maritzburg College Address
51 College Road, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Maritzburg College Location
Maritzburg College is situated at the heart of the of city of Pietermaritzburg in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa.
Maritzburg College Fees
Maritzburg College’s fees is currently standing between ZAR74 000.00 to ZAR79 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.
Maritzburg College Courses & Programs
Maritzburg College is a high school, so it does not offer tertiary-level courses but instead provides a well-rounded academic curriculum for Grades 8 to 12, following the South African CAPS (Curriculum Assessment Policy Statements) framework.
Academic Subjects
Students can choose from a variety of subjects based on their interests and career aspirations:
Core Subjects (Compulsory for All Grades)
English (Home Language)
Afrikaans or isiZulu (First Additional Language)
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
Life Orientation
Elective Subjects
Students can select elective subjects in Grade 10 based on their streams:
Sciences: Physical Science, Life Sciences (Biology), Information Technology (IT), Computer Applications Technology (CAT)
Commerce: Accounting, Business Studies, Economics
Humanities: Geography, History, Dramatic Arts
Technical: Engineering Graphics and Design (EGD)
Additional Programs: Advanced Program Mathematics (optional for high-achieving students).
Extracurricular Activities
Sports Program
Maritzburg College emphasizes sports as part of holistic development. Sports options include: Rugby, Cricket, Hockey, Soccer, Athletics, Basketball, Swimming, Water Polo, Tennis, Cross Country, Golf
Cultural Activities
The school provides a wide range of cultural and artistic opportunities: Debating, Public Speaking, Drama Club Choir, Marimba Band, Art and Photography Club
Clubs and Societies
Students are encouraged to participate in various clubs and societies for personal development: Chess Club, Eco Club (environmental awareness), Service Club (community outreach), Leadership Programs
Leadership and Personal Development Programs
Prefect System: Leadership roles for senior students.
Mentorship Programs: Senior boys mentor juniors to foster teamwork and responsibility.
Life Skills: Workshops and seminars for career guidance and emotional intelligence.
Maritzburg College Vacancies and Entry Requirements
Maritzburg College offers admissions for boys from Grade 8 (Form 2) to Grade 12 (Form 6). The admissions process is competitive, and adherence to timelines is crucial.
Application Timeline:
Grade 8 (Form 2):
Opening Date: Applications open on March 1st of a boy’s Grade 6 year.
Closing Date: Applications close at the end of February of the Grade 7 year. Early submission during the Grade 6 year is recommended due to high demand.
Grades 9-12 (Forms 3-6):
Applications may be submitted at any time during the year.
Acceptance for the following year is typically confirmed during Term 4, depending on available space.
Application Process:
Online Submission: All applications must be submitted online via the school’s website. Printed or emailed applications are not accepted.
Supporting Documents: Applicants should prepare the following documents for upload:
Certified copy of the applicant’s birth certificate.
Latest school report.
ID photographs.
Proof of residence.
Selection Criteria:
Academic Performance: Consistent academic achievement is essential.
Extracurricular Involvement: Participation in sports, cultural activities, and leadership roles is advantageous.
Interview: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview as part of the selection process.
Acceptance Notification:
The Admissions Committee reviews applications and meets to select boarders and day scholars.
Parents are notified via email or phone shortly after the selection meetings.
Important Considerations:
Due to the competitive nature of admissions, it is advisable to apply to multiple schools to secure placement.
Late applications are considered only if places become available.
For detailed information and to access the online application portal, please visit the official Maritzburg College website.
Maritzburg College Logo
Below is the logo of Maritzburg College with excellent quality and it is available to download in PNG (transparent file) JPEG and PDF.
Maritzburg College Logo
Maritzburg College Notable Alumni
Lunga Shabalala – Actor & TV presenter
Ntuthuko Mchunu (head prefect) – South Africa national rugby union team
Bandile Shandu – Premier Soccer League player for Orlando Pirates
Paul Harris (head prefect) – co-founder of Rand Merchant Bank and former CEO of First National Bank
Jesse Kriel – South Africa national rugby union team
David Miller – South Africa national cricket team player
Darian Townsend – Olympic gold medalist in Athens, 2004 – member of the South African 4x100m freestyle world record relay team – captain of the USA swimming team
Andrew ‘Butch’ James – 2007 Rugby World Cup-winning South Africa national rugby team player
Kevin Pietersen MBE – captain of the England national cricket team
Craig Joubert – international rugby referee who officiated in the final of the 2011 Rugby World Cup
Donovan Cech – South African national team rower, bronze medallist at the 2004 Olympic Games
Joel Stransky – 1995 Rugby World Cup-winning South Africa national rugby team player
Michael Brown – former CEO of Nedbank
Maritzburg College Pros and Cons
Pros
Academic Excellence
Maritzburg College has a strong reputation for academic achievement and offers a rigorous curriculum aimed at preparing students for higher education and professional success.
The school provides both the South African National Senior Certificate (NSC) and a variety of subjects that challenge students to excel.
Holistic Education
Focus on developing well-rounded individuals by offering a combination of academic, sports, cultural, and leadership opportunities.
Students are encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities that help them develop a wide range of skills and talents.
Wide Range of Extracurricular Activities
Maritzburg College has a strong focus on sports, with a variety of teams and competitions in rugby, cricket, athletics, swimming, water polo, and more.
The school also offers extensive cultural programs, including music, drama, and visual arts, providing students with a platform to showcase their creativity.
Leadership Development
The school has a well-established system for developing leadership skills, with opportunities for students to take on roles such as prefects, house captains, and leaders of various student organizations.
Leadership training programs and camps help instill values such as responsibility, teamwork, and resilience.
Well-Established Boarding Facilities
The school offers high-quality boarding facilities that provide students with a supportive and structured environment during their time at school.
Maritzburg College has a reputation for providing a home-like atmosphere for its boarders.
Strong Alumni Network
The school has a proud tradition of producing successful individuals in various fields, and its alumni network offers valuable connections and mentorship opportunities.
Many graduates are active in supporting the school and its current students.
Cultural Diversity
The school welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, encouraging respect for different cultures, beliefs, and experiences.
This diversity creates a rich and inclusive environment where students can learn from each other.
Cons
High Cost of Tuition
As with many prestigious schools, Maritzburg College’s tuition fees can be high, making it difficult for some families to afford.
Additional costs for extracurricular activities, uniforms, and boarding further increase the financial burden on students and their families.
Competitive Environment
The high standards of the school can lead to pressure on students to perform academically, socially, and in sports, which may contribute to stress.
Some students may feel overwhelmed by the intense competition, particularly in sports and academics.
Limited Availability of Places
Admission to Maritzburg College is highly competitive, and not all applicants may be offered a place, especially for popular grade levels or in the boarding school.
Limited spaces for external applicants in later grades can make it difficult for students to join the school mid-career.
Traditional Schooling Approach
Some critics argue that Maritzburg College’s traditional teaching and administrative methods may not suit every student’s learning style, particularly those who prefer more modern or progressive approaches.
The focus on discipline and structure may not appeal to every student or family.
Pressure to Maintain Legacy
The school’s prestigious reputation and long history can create a social pressure to uphold its legacy, which may be challenging for some students.
This pressure can sometimes lead to anxiety among students who feel they must meet or exceed expectations set by past generations.
Geographical Location
The school’s location in Pietermaritzburg may be inconvenient for families who live far from the area, especially those who require boarding for their children.
Although the school provides boarding facilities, the geographical location might limit access for those seeking to enroll from outside the region.
Limited Focus on Modern Technology
While the school has integrated technology into its curriculum, some students may feel that the level of technological innovation and resources could be further enhanced to align with global educational trends.
Author's Review
Maritzburg College is an esteemed institution that excels in providing a well-rounded education, combining strong academic performance with a broad range of extracurricular opportunities.
Its focus on leadership development, sports, and cultural activities ensures that students are equipped not only for academic success but also for personal growth and future leadership roles. The school’s state-of-the-art facilities, supportive boarding environment, and diverse community contribute to its reputation as one of South Africa’s leading schools.
However, the high tuition fees and competitive environment may not be suitable for every student, especially those seeking a more relaxed or alternative educational experience. The pressure to meet the school’s high standards can be overwhelming for some, and the competitive nature of the school might not appeal to everyone.
In conclusion, Maritzburg College offers an exceptional education for families who are looking for a top-tier school that balances tradition with modern opportunities. While it may be an excellent fit for ambitious students, it’s important for prospective families to carefully consider whether the school’s rigorous demands and financial costs align with their child’s needs and aspirations.
