The Essentials
Type of School: Day, Private
Fees per year: ZAR51 700.00
Address: 220 Main Rd cnr Main and Mount Road Entrance in, Mount Rd, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
Phone Number: +27 21 689 9154
Principal: Mr. Mark Smith
Number of pupils: 1 000+
Age Range: 14-18
Email: admin@westerford.co.za
Website: https://www.westerford.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
Westerford High School is a public, co-educational institution located in the suburbs of Rondebosch and Newlands in Cape Town, South Africa. Established on January 21, 1953, the school has grown to accommodate over 900 students from Grades 8 to 12. The campus is situated near landmarks such as the Newlands Rugby Ground and Table Mountain.
Academic Excellence
Westerford High School is renowned for its strong academic performance. In 2009, it was ranked by the Sunday Times as the top state school in South Africa and identified as one of the largest feeder schools for the University of Cape Town.
The school has consistently achieved a 100% pass rate in the National Senior Certificate examinations, with a high percentage of students earning distinctions and bachelor’s degree passes.
Extracurricular Activities
The school offers a wide array of extracurricular activities, including over 40 clubs and societies that cater to diverse interests such as religion, politics, social welfare, and the arts.
Sports are also a significant part of student life, with facilities that include an indoor sports centre, multiple fields, an AstroTurf, squash courts, a heated Olympic-size swimming pool, tennis courts, and basketball courts.
School Motto and Values
The school’s motto, “Nil Nisi Optimum,” translates to “Nothing But The Best,” reflecting its commitment to excellence in all endeavors. Westerford High School emphasizes inclusivity, diversity, and educational excellence, aiming to develop well-rounded individuals who contribute meaningfully to society.
Westerford High School Contact Details
You can contact Alma Mater Westerford High School via their landline, email or you can visit their website for further contact details.
Phone Number: +27 21 689 9154
Email: admin@westerford.co.za
Website: https://www.westerford.co.za/
Westerford High School Address
220 Main Rd cnr Main and Mount Road Entrance in, Mount Rd, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
Westerford High School Location
Westerford High School has two campus one for sporting activities and the main one for academic purposes. The sporting activities is situated in the suburbs of Newlands then the main campus is located in the suburb of Rondebosch in the city of Cape Town under the Western Cape province of South Africa.
Westerford High School Fees
Westerford High School fees is currently standing at around ZAR51 700.00 excluding registration fees and other additional costs. Please visit the institution directly or contact them on their landline or via email.
Westerford High School Courses & Programs
Westerford High School in Cape Town offers a comprehensive curriculum across two educational phases:
General Education and Training (GET) Phase: Grades 8 & 9
Students engage in a broad range of subjects designed to provide a solid educational foundation:
Languages:
Home Language: English
First Additional Language: Afrikaans or isiXhosa
Second Additional Language: In Grade 9, options include French, Italian, or isiXhosa
Mathematics
Natural Sciences: Physical Sciences and Life Sciences
Social Sciences: History and Geography
Economic and Management Sciences
Technology
Life Orientation
Creative Arts: Students can specialize in Music, Visual Arts, or Drama, or opt for a general Creative Arts course
Further Education and Training (FET) Phase: Grades 10, 11 & 12
In this phase, students are required to take seven subjects, comprising four compulsory subjects and three electives:
Compulsory Subjects:
Home Language: English
First Additional Language: Afrikaans or isiXhosa
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
Life Orientation
Elective Subjects: Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, History, Geography, Accounting, Music, Visual Arts, Second Additional Language (isiXhosa, French, or Italian), Information Technology, Advanced Programme Mathematics (offered as an eighth subject from Grade 10)
Westerford High School Logo
Below is the logo of Westerford High School with excellent quality and it is available to download in PNG (transparent file) JPEG and PDF.
Westerford High School Logo
Westerford High School Notable Alumni
Thuthukile Zuma – former Chief of Staff for the Department of Telecommunications and Postal Services.
Brendan Young – cricketer.
John Bauer – South African potter.
Dan Corder – media personality
Farhaan Behardien – cricketer.
Sir Bradley Fried – businessman
Westerford High School Pros and Cons
Pros
Academic Excellence: Westerford is known for its high academic standards and a strong focus on preparing students for university and future careers. The school follows the IEB curriculum, consistently achieving excellent results in national exams.
Wide Range of Subjects: The school offers a broad spectrum of subjects, catering to a variety of interests and future career paths, including languages, sciences, mathematics, social sciences, and arts.
Holistic Education: Westerford focuses on the holistic development of students, balancing academic excellence with strong extracurricular offerings in music, drama, sports, and cultural activities. This approach ensures that students are well-rounded and develop various skills.
Strong Arts and Culture Programs: Westerford has a strong tradition of excellence in music, drama, and visual arts. It is well-regarded for its vibrant arts scene, which includes choirs, bands, and performances that provide students with an opportunity to express their creativity.
Sports and Physical Education: The school offers a wide range of sports options, including soccer, netball, rugby, and athletics, encouraging students to stay active and work as part of a team.
Experienced and Supportive Staff: The teachers at Westerford are experienced and dedicated to supporting students both academically and personally. The school offers academic support programs for students who need extra help, fostering a culture of collaboration.
Inclusive and Diverse Environment: Westerford promotes a diverse and inclusive community, welcoming students from various cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, which enriches the overall school experience.
Strong School Spirit: The school has a vibrant school spirit, with active participation in school events, social initiatives, and regular interaction between students and teachers. This contributes to a supportive, family-like atmosphere.
Beautiful Location: Situated in the scenic Rondebosch area, Westerford enjoys a beautiful and conducive learning environment, with views of the surrounding mountains and easy access to local amenities.
Preparation for Tertiary Education: The school’s focus on academic preparation, including university-level entrance requirements, ensures that students are well-prepared for tertiary education both locally and internationally.
Cons
High Tuition Fees: As a private school, Westerford’s tuition fees may be a barrier for some families. The cost of education can be significant, particularly when compared to public schools in the area.
Competitive Admissions Process: Due to its strong academic reputation, the school’s admissions process can be quite competitive, with high academic expectations and a limited number of spaces available. This can make entry difficult for students with lower academic performances.
Pressure to Perform: With a strong emphasis on academic achievement, some students may feel the pressure to perform at high levels, which can lead to stress or burnout, particularly in the final years of schooling.
Limited Extra-Curricular Options for Non-Sporting Students: While Westerford has a strong arts program, students who are not interested in sports may find fewer extracurricular activities aligned with their interests outside of academic-focused clubs.
Larger Class Sizes: Some students may find that the class sizes at Westerford are larger than they would prefer, which may reduce the amount of individualized attention from teachers.
Lack of Boarding Facilities: Westerford does not offer boarding facilities, which could be a disadvantage for students living outside of Cape Town who may struggle with transport to and from the school.
Limited Focus on Vocational Education: The school’s focus is largely on academic and university-bound students, which means it may not be the best fit for those looking for a more vocational or technical education.
Social Dynamics: As with many competitive private schools, there can be a strong focus on academic and social standing, which could lead to social pressures or exclusion, especially for students who may struggle academically or socially.
Author's Review
Westerford High School stands as a premier institution in South Africa, offering an exceptional academic experience complemented by a rich variety of extracurricular activities.
With its strong focus on preparing students for university and beyond, the school excels in fostering both academic achievement and holistic personal growth. The broad range of subjects, combined with a supportive environment for arts, sports, and leadership, ensures that students leave well-equipped to excel in various facets of life.
However, the school’s high tuition fees, competitive admissions process, and academic pressure may make it less accessible to some families, and may not suit every student’s learning style.
Despite these challenges, Westerford’s emphasis on excellence, inclusivity, and preparation for tertiary education makes it an excellent choice for families seeking a strong academic foundation in a supportive and dynamic environment.
If your child thrives in a competitive and academic-focused setting, Westerford High School offers a high-quality education with countless opportunities for personal and academic growth.
