Essentials
Type of School: Boarding, Day, Private
Fees per year: ZAR43 000.00
Address: Devereux Ave, Berea, East London, 5247, South Africa
Phone Number: +27 43 726 3205
Principal: Mr. D Vorster
Number of pupils: 1 300+
Age Range: 14-18
Email: office@hpps.co.za
Website: https://www.hphs.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
Hudson Park High School, established on August 5, 1905, is a public English-medium co-educational institution located in the suburb of Vincent in East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa. The school caters to learners from Grade 8 to Grade 12 and has an enrollment of approximately 1,300 students. The school’s motto, “Tentando Superabis,” translates from Latin to “By endeavor, we will succeed.”
History
The institution began as a small primary school in 1905, housed in St. Alban’s Church hall. In 1912, new buildings were erected on the current site. It transitioned to a secondary school in 1959 and was named Clifton Park High School in 1965. In 1978, after amalgamating with Hudson Park Primary School, it adopted the name Hudson Park High School. The school opened its doors to pupils of all races in 1991.
Academic Excellence
Hudson Park High School offers a flexible and modern curriculum, emphasizing academic excellence. In 2021, the school achieved a matriculation pass rate of 99.9%.
The curriculum includes a range of subjects, with compulsory courses in two official languages (one Home Language and one First Additional Language), Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, and Life Orientation. Students can choose three additional subjects from a list of 25 approved options.
Sports and Physical Development
The school offers a wide array of sports, including athletics, chess, cricket, cross country, equestrian, golf, hockey (boys and girls), netball (girls), rugby (boys), soccer, squash, swimming, table tennis, tennis, and water polo. Expert coaching and superb facilities, including all-weather courts, support the physical development of students. The school maintains high league rankings in many sports.
Cultural Expression
Hudson Park High School encourages cultural expression through various activities. Students have opportunities to participate in music, drama, and other cultural pursuits, with tuition available for a wide range of musical instruments. The school has a strong presence in local dramatics and has achieved success in regional and national competitions.
Pastoral Activities
The school promotes a holistic approach to well-being, emphasizing family values and significant participation in community service and outreach programs. Activities are designed to support the pastoral development of students, fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding.
Leadership Development
Leadership training is incorporated into the curriculum to develop resourceful, dependable problem-solvers who contribute positively to their community. The school believes that leadership education improves learners’ understanding of character and leadership, translating into effective behavior.
Facilities
The campus features modern facilities, including multiple halls, science and biology laboratories, computer labs, a school shop, tuck shop, sports fields for rugby, hockey, soccer, cricket, netball courts, tennis courts, and a water polo pool complex. The school also provides hostel accommodation for boarding students.
Notable Alumni
Hudson Park High School has produced several notable alumni, particularly in the field of rugby. Prominent former students include Akona Ndungane and Odwa Ndungane, both of whom have represented South Africa in rugby.
Hudson Park High School Contact Details
You can contact Hudson Park High School via their landline, email or you can visit their website for further contact details.
Phone Number: +27 43 726 3205
Email: office@hpps.co.za
Website: https://www.hphs.co.za/
Hudson Park High School Address
Devereux Ave, Berea, East London, 5247, South Africa
Hudson Park High School Location
Hudson Park High School is situated in the suburb of Vincent in East London under the Eastern Cape province of South Africa
Hudson Park High School Fees
Hudson Park High School’s fees is currently standing at ZAR43 000.00 per annum excluding hostel, registration fees and other minor fees. Please visit the website for more correct information or call them on their office number as fees can change yearly.
Hudson Park High School Courses & Programs
Hudson Park High School offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with a well-rounded education. The academic program is divided into two phases: the General Education and Training (GET) Phase for Grades 8 and 9, and the Further Education and Training (FET) Phase for Grades 10 to 12.
GET Phase (Grades 8 and 9):
In this phase, students engage in a broad range of subjects to build a solid educational foundation. The subjects offered include:
Languages: English Home Language, Afrikaans First Additional Language, isiXhosa First Additional Language
Creative Arts: Dramatic Arts, Music, Visual Arts
Economic Management Sciences
Life Orientation
Mathematics
Natural Sciences
Social Sciences: Geography, History
Technology
These subjects aim to develop students’ competencies across various disciplines, preparing them for more specialized studies in the FET phase.
FET Phase (Grades 10 to 12):
In the FET phase, students are required to take a set of core subjects and select additional elective subjects based on their interests and career aspirations.
Core Subjects:
English Home Language
First Additional Language: Afrikaans First Additional Language, isiXhosa First Additional Language
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
Life Orientation
Elective Subjects:
Students choose three elective subjects from various groups. The availability of specific subjects may depend on student demand and timetabling constraints. The elective subjects offered include:
Sciences: Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, Agricultural Sciences
Commerce: Accounting, Business Studies, Economics
Humanities: Geography, History, Religion Studies
Languages: French Second Additional Language, German Second Additional Language
Arts: Visual Arts, Dramatic Arts, Music
Technology: Information Technology, Computer Applications Technology, Engineering Graphics and Design
Other: Consumer Studies, Tourism
This diverse selection allows students to tailor their education to their interests and future career goals.
Cultural and Extracurricular Programs
Beyond the academic curriculum, Hudson Park High School offers a variety of cultural and extracurricular activities to foster holistic development. These programs include:
Music:
Individual training in instruments such as piano, brass, woodwind, strings, drums, and marimba
Vocal training for solo and choir performers
Ensemble work through participation in brass, string, marimba, and woodwind bands
Drama:
Stage performance opportunities through school productions and regular drama classes
Visual Arts:
Specialized instruction in the Art Academy
Various art clubs, including Craft Club and Creative Club
Other Activities:
Debating, Public Speaking, Chess
Hudson Park High School Vacancies and Entry Requirements
Student Admissions
Hudson Park High School welcomes applications from prospective students for various grades. The application process and requirements are as follows:
Application Forms:
Grade 8 Applications: The application form for Grade 8 can be downloaded from the school’s website. Once completed, it must be hand-delivered to the school’s Reception Office by the specified deadline.
Grades 9 to 12 Applications: Application forms for Grades 9 through 12 are also available for download. Similar to Grade 8 applications, these forms should be completed and personally submitted to the Reception Office by the indicated deadlines.
Subject Choice Forms:
Prospective students are required to complete subject choice forms corresponding to their intended grade level. These forms are available for download on the school’s website and should be submitted along with the application form.
Application Deadlines:
Grade 8 Applications: The deadline for Grade 8 applications is typically in March of the preceding year. For instance, applications for the 2025 academic year were due by March 13, 2024.
Grades 9 to 11 Applications: The deadline for applications to Grades 9 through 11 is usually in November of the preceding year. For example, applications for the 2024 academic year closed on November 30, 2023.
Hostel Admissions:
For students interested in boarding, Hudson Park High School offers hostel facilities. A separate hostel application form is required and can be downloaded from the school’s website. The completed form should be submitted along with the general application form.
Admission Policy:
Hudson Park High School’s admission policy emphasizes a commitment to providing comprehensive and relevant education. The school recognizes each learner’s unique identity and strives to imbue students with an attitude that is humble and altruistic. The core values emphasized include respect, responsibility, honesty, tolerance, and loyalty.
Please note that application deadlines and requirements are subject to change. It is recommended to consult the school’s official website or contact the administration directly for the most up-to-date information.
Hudson Park High School Logo
Below is the logo of Hudson Park High School with excellent quality and it is available to download in PNG (transparent file) JPEG and PDF.
Hudson Park High School Logo
Hudson Park High School Notable Alumni
Scott Kemp (Class of 1992) – South African rugby player
Akona Ndungane (Class of 1999) – South African rugby player
Odwa Ndungane (Class of 1999) – South African rugby player
Andisa Gqobo (Class of 2005) – South African rugby player
Onke Dubase (Class of 2007) – South African rugby player
Alulutho Tshakweni (Class of 2016) – South African rugby player
Uzile Tele (Class of 2018) – South African rugby player
Sibabalwe Mahashe (Class of 2022) – South African rugby player
Sivu Mabece (Class of 2022) – South African rugby player
Hudson Park High School Pros and Cons
Pros
Academic Excellence: Hudson Park High School is known for its strong academic performance and high standards in education. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes subjects in the sciences, humanities, languages, and commerce, giving students a well-rounded foundation. The school consistently produces top-performing students, particularly in national examinations.
Extracurricular Opportunities: The school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities to help students develop outside the classroom. These include sports (such as rugby, soccer, netball, and athletics), as well as cultural activities (such as drama, music, and arts). These opportunities help students build leadership skills, teamwork, and confidence, fostering their overall growth.
Supportive School Community: Hudson Park High has a strong school spirit and a sense of camaraderie among students, staff, and alumni. There is a collaborative atmosphere that promotes school pride and encourages students to participate in school events, such as sports events, cultural activities, and fundraising. This sense of community creates a supportive environment for students to thrive.
Excellent Facilities: The school is well-equipped with modern facilities to support both academic and extracurricular activities. These include science laboratories, computer rooms, sports fields, and a library, allowing students to engage in practical learning and development in various fields.
Active Parental Involvement: Hudson Park High benefits from strong parental involvement, which contributes to the school’s success. Parents actively participate in school events, meetings, and fundraising activities, which help improve the school environment and provide additional resources for students.
Cons
Inconsistent Teaching Quality: While the school has a reputation for academic excellence, there have been concerns about the quality of teaching in certain subjects. Some students have reported instances of inadequate or inconsistent teaching, citing cases of teachers who are perceived as biased or who fail to engage effectively with students
Senior Student Influence: A common issue reported by students is the pressure from senior students, particularly prefects or older students, who sometimes have an undue influence over younger students. This can create a challenging environment for freshmen or students new to the school who may feel intimidated or pressured by the older student cohort.
Disciplinary Challenges: Like many high schools, Hudson Park High faces occasional challenges with student behavior. There have been reports of bullying, rudeness, and some disciplinary issues among students, which can create an uncomfortable environment for those affected.
Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity: Some students and parents feel that the school’s code of conduct and approach to diversity might not fully embrace the multicultural environment of the school. There have been concerns about the lack of inclusivity for students from different cultural backgrounds or those with different needs.
Overcrowding in Certain Grades: As a popular school in East London, Hudson Park High can sometimes face overcrowding, especially in certain grades. This may lead to larger class sizes, which can affect individual attention for students. The competition for spaces in the school is fierce, making it more difficult for new students to secure a spot, particularly in the earlier grades.
Author’s Review
Hudson Park High School offers a solid academic foundation, a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, and a strong sense of school community. With excellent facilities, dedicated staff, and active parental involvement, it is a great choice for students looking for a well-rounded education.
However, challenges such as inconsistent teaching quality, pressure from senior students, and occasional disciplinary issues highlight areas that need attention. Despite these drawbacks, the school remains a strong contender for those seeking a balanced, supportive, and dynamic high school experience.
Parents and students should consider both the strengths and areas for improvement when evaluating the school as the right fit.
