The Essentials
Type of School: Boarding, Private
Tuition and Boarding fees per year: ZAR392 000.00
Address: R103, Balgowan, 3275, South Africa
Phone Number: +27 33 234 1000
Rector: Antony Clark
Number of pupils: 600+
Age Range: 13-18
Email: info@michaelhouse.org
Website: https://www.michaelhouse.org/
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
Michaelhouse is a prestigious all-boys boarding school located in the picturesque KwaZulu-Natal Midlands of South Africa. Founded in 1896 by Anglican priest Canon James Cameron Todd, the school has a rich heritage and is dedicated to providing a holistic education that fosters academic excellence, character development, and individual growth.
Academic Excellence
Michaelhouse offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to challenge and inspire students. With a low teacher-pupil ratio of 1:10, the school ensures personalized attention, allowing each student to reach their full academic potential.
Cultural and Sporting Programs
The school provides a wide array of cultural and sporting activities, encouraging students to explore their interests and talents beyond the classroom. This balanced approach aims to develop well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of the future.
Boarding Life
As a full boarding school, Michaelhouse offers a nurturing and supportive environment where students can thrive. The boarding experience fosters independence, camaraderie, and a strong sense of community among the boys.
Admissions
Michaelhouse is non-sectarian in its admission policy, welcoming applications from boys of diverse backgrounds. Entry at the Grade 8 level is determined by previous academic performance, a personal interview with the Rector or a Deputy Rector, a copy of the most recent school report, and a confidential report from the applicant’s current headmaster.
Scholarships
The school offers scholarships to boys of outstanding ability entering Grade 8. These scholarships are valid for the five-year duration of a student’s career at Michaelhouse, subject to maintaining an acceptable level of performance.
Michaelhouse Contact Details
You can contact Michaelhouse via their landline, email or you can visit their website for further contact details.
Phone Number: +27 33 234 1000
Email: info@michaelhouse.org
Website: https://www.michaelhouse.org/
Michaelhouse Address
R103, Balgowan, 3275, South Africa
Michaelhouse Location
Michaelhouse is situated in the town of Balgowan in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa, approximately 125km north-west of the city of Durban
Michaelhouse Fees
Michaelhouse is a full boarding school, its tuition and boarding fees are combined to a total amount of ZAR392 000.00 per year excluding some minor fees. Please contact the institute via landline, email or visit them directly to get a up to date quote as fees are subject to change yearly.
Michaelhouse Courses & Programs
Michaelhouse School, located in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, South Africa, offers a well-rounded educational experience with a diverse range of academic, cultural, and co-curricular programs.
Academic Courses
Michaelhouse follows the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) curriculum, leading to the South African National Senior Certificate (NSC). The school offers a wide range of subjects across various disciplines:
Core Subjects (Compulsory for Grades 8-12):
English Language and Literature: Focus on critical thinking, comprehension, creative writing, and literary analysis.
Afrikaans / isiZulu: Second languages with an emphasis on communication skills and cultural appreciation.
Mathematics: Includes core Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy for senior grades.
Life Orientation: A holistic program covering personal well-being, career guidance, and social responsibility.
Elective Subjects (Grades 10-12):
Students can select electives from the following categories:
Sciences: Physical Sciences, Life Sciences (Biology), Information Technology (IT)
Commerce: Accounting, Business Studies, Economics
Humanities: Geography, History, Dramatic Arts
Creative and Technical Arts: Visual Arts, Music, Design and Technology
Additional Languages: French, Mandarin (depending on demand)
Religious Studies: Provides insights into ethical reasoning, theology, and the study of various world religions.
Cultural Programs
Michaelhouse places significant emphasis on cultural activities to foster creativity and personal growth. Programs include:
Music:
Instrumental and vocal training (classical, jazz, contemporary).
Choir, orchestra, and music theory classes.
Drama:
School plays, theater productions, and drama workshops.
Drama as a formal academic subject.
Art: Fine arts, painting, sculpture, and photography.
Public Speaking and Debating: Development of critical thinking, argumentation, and presentation skills.
Clubs and Societies: Examples include the Robotics Club, Environmental Club, and Science Club.
Sporting Programs
Michaelhouse is renowned for its extensive sports offerings, promoting teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness. Available sports include: Rugby, Cricket, Soccer, Hockey, Swimming, Water Polo, Tennis, Squash, Golf, Rowing, Athletics, Cross-country, Cycling
Leadership and Character Development Programs
Leadership Courses: Programs aimed at nurturing leadership qualities, teamwork, and self-discipline.
Outdoor Education: Hiking, camping, and other adventure-based activities designed to build resilience.
Community Service: Students participate in outreach programs to serve local communities.
Mentorship Program: Senior boys mentor younger students to foster responsibility and support.
Extracurricular Enrichment
Michaelhouse offers numerous additional programs to enhance student development:
Chess
Robotics and Coding
Photography
Environmental Sustainability Programs
Michaelhouse Vacancies and Entry Requirements
Michaelhouse, a renowned Anglican independent senior boarding school for boys from Grade 8 to Grade 12, offers various career opportunities and has specific entry requirements for prospective students.
Entry Requirements
Michaelhouse is non-sectarian in its admission policy, welcoming applications from boys of diverse backgrounds.
Admission Policy:
Grade 8 (E Block) Entry:
Criteria:
Previous academic performance.
A personal interview with the Rector or a Deputy Rector.
A copy of the most recent school report.
A confidential report from the applicant’s current headmaster.
Registration: Registration may be completed at any time from the applicant’s birth onwards, preferably by no later than the end of his Grade 6 year.
Grades 9 and 10 (D and C Blocks) Entry:
Criteria:
Admission is subject to availability.
Previous academic performance.
A personal interview with the Rector.
A copy of the most recent school report.
A confidential report from the applicant’s current headmaster.
Registration: Similar to Grade 8 entry, early registration is encouraged.
Application Process
Registration:
Prospective students can register by completing the online application form available on the Michaelhouse website.
A registration fee is applicable, details of which are provided during the application process.
Assessment and Interview:
Upon receipt of the application, the admissions office will coordinate the assessment and interview process.
Admission Decision:
Decisions are communicated to applicants after the completion of assessments and interviews.
Scholarships:
Michaelhouse offers scholarships to boys of outstanding ability entering Grade 8. These scholarships are valid for the five-year duration of a student’s career at Michaelhouse, subject to maintaining an acceptable level of performance.
Michaelhouse remains committed to its founder’s vision: to develop men of understanding, thought, and culture, prepared to make meaningful contributions to society.
Michaelhouse Logo
Below is the logo of Michaelhouse with excellent quality and it is available to download in PNG (transparent file) JPEG and PDF.
Michaelhouse School Logo
Michaelhouse Notable Alumni
Patrick Lambie – Former Sharks and Springbok rugby player
Chris Nicholson – High Court judge in the Natal Provincial Division who declared charges against Jacob Zuma were unlawful
Jean van der Westhuyzen – Australian canoeist, 2020 Summer Olympics gold medalist
John van de Ruit – playwright and author of Spud
David ‘the Kiffness’ Scott – musician
Richard Scott – Baron Scott of Foscote, British barrister and judge
Pat Cilliers – Sharks, Lions, Stormers and Springbok rugby player
Ruan Combrinck – Lions and Springbok rugby player
Michaelhouse Pros and Cons
Pros
Outstanding Academic Program:
Michaelhouse offers a rigorous academic curriculum with a focus on excellence in various subjects, including mathematics, science, languages, and the arts.
The school integrates modern teaching techniques with traditional values, ensuring that students are well-prepared for tertiary education and global challenges.
Exceptional Facilities:
The school boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including science laboratories, IT centers, art studios, and a well-stocked library.
Sports facilities are extensive, including fields for rugby, cricket, hockey, swimming pools, and fitness centers.
Strong Sporting Tradition:
Michaelhouse has a rich history of sporting excellence and offers opportunities to participate in a wide variety of sports.
The school encourages teamwork, discipline, and leadership through sports.
Emphasis on Leadership Development:
Leadership programs, prefect systems, and other initiatives are designed to develop character, responsibility, and decision-making skills in students.
Rich Cultural and Artistic Program:
Students have access to opportunities in music, drama, and fine arts, allowing them to explore and develop their creative talents.
Boarding School Experience:
Michaelhouse offers a full boarding program, fostering a strong sense of community and independence among students.
Boys benefit from a structured environment with supervision, mentorship, and camaraderie.
Diverse Extracurricular Activities:
Clubs and societies, ranging from debating and robotics to environmental awareness, ensure holistic development beyond academics.
Scholarship Opportunities:
Michaelhouse provides scholarships for academic, sporting, and cultural achievements, making it accessible to talented students.
Prestigious Alumni Network:
Michaelhouse has a strong alumni network of influential individuals in various industries, offering networking opportunities for students and graduates.
Pastoral Care and Values-Based Education:
The school emphasizes Christian values, character-building, and moral development, creating a nurturing environment for boys.
Cons
High Cost: As a prestigious private school, Michaelhouse has high tuition and boarding fees, which may be a barrier for some families.
Competitive Admission Process: The school has a rigorous entry process, including assessments, interviews, and limited vacancies, making it challenging for some students to gain admission.
Exclusive Environment: As an all-boys boarding school, Michaelhouse may not suit families looking for co-educational or day school options.
Academic Pressure: The emphasis on academic and extracurricular excellence may create a competitive environment that could feel overwhelming for some students.
Remote Location: Located in Balgowan in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, the school is relatively remote, which may pose logistical challenges for families living far from the region.
Traditional Approach: While the school has modernized in many areas, some families might find aspects of its traditional culture and systems less appealing or overly rigid.
Potential for Exclusivity: As a prestigious institution with a rich history, the school’s environment may be perceived as exclusive or elitist by some.
Limited Diversity: While efforts have been made to ensure inclusivity, independent boarding schools like Michaelhouse can sometimes lack representation from more diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
Author's Review
Michaelhouse School is a prestigious and historic institution that offers a world-class education rooted in tradition, excellence, and values-based learning. With its exceptional academic, sporting, and cultural programs, as well as a focus on holistic development, the school prepares young men to thrive as leaders in an ever-changing world.
While its high cost, competitive admission process, and traditional boarding environment may not suit all families, Michaelhouse stands out for its emphasis on character-building, leadership development, and fostering a sense of community. For families seeking an all-boys boarding experience that blends tradition with modern education, Michaelhouse is undoubtedly a top-tier choice.
