The Essentials
Type of School: Day, Private
Fees per year: ZAR91 000.00 to ZAR213 000.00
Address: 65 Campground Rd, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
Phone Number: +27 (0)21 659 1000
Principal: Mr. Tony Reeler
Number of pupils: 800+
Age Range: 14-18
Email: marketing@bishops.org.za
Website: https://www.bishops.org.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
Bishops Diocesan College, commonly known as Bishops, is a prestigious independent Anglican boys’ school located in Rondebosch, Cape Town, South Africa. Established on October 2, 1849, by the first Anglican Bishop of Cape Town, Robert Gray, the school has a rich history and a strong reputation for academic excellence, cultural development, and sporting achievements.
Campus and Facilities
The school is situated on a well-equipped campus that includes facilities such as the John Peake Music School, which houses teaching classrooms, instrumental teaching rooms, a percussion studio, the Hyslop Concert Hall, a recording studio, and a SoundHouse for music technology.
Academic Curriculum
Bishops offers education from Grade R to Grade 12, following the South African National Curriculum. In recent years, the school has also introduced Cambridge AS and A Levels, providing students with an internationally recognized qualification.
Cultural Activities
The school places a strong emphasis on cultural development, offering various programs in music, drama, and visual arts. The annual Eisteddfod is a highlight, encouraging student participation in a wide range of musical and artistic activities.
Sports Program
Bishops offers a comprehensive sports program, including athletics, basketball, chess, cricket, cross country, cycling, golf, hockey, mountain biking, rowing, rugby, soccer, shooting, squash, swimming, table tennis, tennis, and water polo. The school has a strong sporting tradition and has produced numerous athletes who have excelled at national and international levels.
Notable Alumni
Bishops has an extensive list of distinguished alumni, known as Old Diocesans (ODs), who have made significant contributions in various fields, including business, sports, academia, and the arts. Notable ODs include businessman Raymond Ackerman, cricketer Herschelle Gibbs, entrepreneur and former astronaut Mark Shuttleworth, and scientist Professor Tim Noakes.
Admissions
Prospective students and their families are encouraged to visit the school’s official website for detailed information on the admissions process, entry requirements, and application deadlines. Given the school’s reputation, competition for places can be strong, and early application is advisable.
Bishops Diocesan College Contact Details
You can contact Bishops Diocesan College via their landline, email or you can visit their website for further contact details.
Phone Number: +27 (0)21 659 1000
Email: marketing@bishops.org.za
Website: https://www.bishops.org.za/
Bishops Diocesan College Address
65 Campground Rd, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
Bishops Diocesan College Location
Bishops Diocesan College is situated in the suburb of Rondebosch in Cape Town in the Western Cape province of South Africa on Campground Road.
Bishops Diocesan College School Fees
Bishops Diocesan College’s fees is currently standing between ZAR91 000.00 to ZAR213 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.
Bishops Diocesan College Courses & Programs
Bishops Diocesan College offers a wide array of academic, cultural, and sporting programs, providing students with a holistic and enriching educational experience.
Academic Curriculum
Bishops Diocesan College offers a wide array of academic, cultural, and sporting programs, providing students with a holistic and enriching educational experience. Bishops follows the South African National Curriculum but enhances it with additional offerings to meet global educational standards.
Junior School (Grades R–7)
Foundation skills in Mathematics, English, Afrikaans, and isiXhosa
Natural Sciences and Technology
Social Sciences (Geography and History)
Life Orientation
Music, Art, and Physical Education
College (Grades 8–12)
Compulsory Subjects: English Home Language, First Additional Language (Afrikaans or isiXhosa), Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, Life Orientation
Elective Subjects (Students choose from the following): Accounting, Business Studies, Dramatic Arts, Geography, History, Information Technology (IT), Life Sciences (Biology), Music, Physical Sciences (Physics and Chemistry), Visual Arts
Cambridge International Program: Cambridge AS and A Levels are offered as an alternative qualification to the South African National Senior Certificate (NSC), providing internationally recognized academic qualifications.
Cultural Programs
Bishops encourages cultural enrichment and creativity through its diverse cultural programs. Key programs include:
Music: Individual instrumental tuition, Choir and orchestra participation, Music theory and composition, Opportunities to perform at concerts, Eisteddfods, and festivals
Drama: Theatre productions (both classical and modern), Dramatic Arts as a subject, Participation in school plays, house plays, and external drama festivals
Visual Arts: Art classes focusing on drawing, painting, sculpture, and design, Exhibitions of student artwork, Participation in art competitions
Debating and Public Speaking: Competitive debating teams, Public speaking workshops and contests
Sports Programs
Bishops is well-known for its robust sports culture, with facilities and training provided for a wide variety of sports.
Athletics, Basketball, Chess, Cricket, Cross Country, Cycling, Golf, Hockey, Mountain Biking, Rowing, Rugby, Soccer, Shooting, Squash, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Water Polo
Clubs and Societies
Bishops offers a range of extracurricular clubs to cater to students’ diverse interests: Science Club, Environmental Club, Photography Club, Robotics and Coding Club, First Aid Society, Service Groups (Community Outreach and Volunteering)
Leadership and Development Programs
Prefect System: Students are groomed for leadership roles through the prefect system.
Leadership Camps: Designed to instill values such as teamwork, resilience, and problem-solving.
Outreach Programs: Community service projects aimed at developing social responsibility.
Religious Education
As an Anglican school, Bishops incorporates religious education and chapel services into its curriculum, emphasizing Christian values while respecting diversity.
Bishops Diocesan College Vacancies and Entry Requirements
Bishops Diocesan College, located in Cape Town, South Africa, is a prestigious Anglican boys’ school renowned for its academic excellence and holistic development programs.
Admissions
Grade 8 Admissions:
Application Process:
Registration: Prospective students should register their interest with the admissions office.
Entrance Examination: Registered applicants are invited to sit for the Bishops Entrance Examination in the year preceding admission. A nominal fee is charged for this exam.
Additional Assessments: Some applicants may be required to attend interviews. Additionally, preparatory schools provide confidential questionnaires detailing each candidate’s performance and achievements.
Selection Criteria:
Performance in the Entrance Examination.
Final Grade 7 academic report.
Confidential report from the applicant’s current school.
Offers: Admission offers are typically made towards the end of May each year.
Grades 9 to 11 Admissions:
Availability: Admissions for Grades 9 to 11 are contingent upon vacancies created by current students leaving, as these grades usually commence each year fully subscribed.
General Requirements:
Academic Performance: A strong academic record is essential.
Extracurricular Involvement: Participation in sports, cultural activities, and community service is highly regarded.
Character Assessment: Confidential reports from current schools play a significant role in evaluating the applicant’s character and suitability.
Application Deadlines:
Specific deadlines are provided by the admissions office. Prospective applicants should consult the Admissions Overview page for detailed timelines and procedures.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, prospective applicants and their families are advised to visit the official Bishops Diocesan College website or contact the admissions office directly.
Bishops Diocesan College Logo
Below is the logo of Bishops Diocesan College with excellent quality and it is available to download in PNG (transparent file) JPEG and PDF.
Bishops Diocesan College Logo
Bishops Diocesan College Notable Alumni
Mark Shuttleworth – entrepreneur & former astronaut
James Selfe – South African politician
Gavin Relly – former Anglo-American chairman
Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu – Springbok rugby player
Nizaam Carr – first post-apartheid Muslim Springbok, Current Wasps player
Stuart Abbott – former England rugby union international
Raymond Ackerman – businessman
Bishops Diocesan College Pros and Cons
Pros
Academic Excellence
Bishops consistently ranks among the top schools in South Africa for academic performance.
Offers both the South African National Senior Certificate (NSC) and Cambridge International qualifications, providing students with global opportunities.
Holistic Education
Strong emphasis on developing well-rounded individuals through academics, sports, arts, leadership programs, and community service.
Extensive extracurricular activities cater to diverse interests.
World-Class Facilities
State-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, libraries, sports fields, and cultural venues.
Excellent boarding facilities with a nurturing environment.
Cultural and Sporting Achievements
Bishops is renowned for its achievements in sports such as rugby, cricket, hockey, and water polo.
Strong arts programs, including music, drama, and visual arts, with opportunities for public performances and exhibitions.
Leadership Development
Focus on building leadership skills through student governance, camps, and prefect systems.
Alumni network includes influential leaders in various fields.
Christian Values
As an Anglican school, Bishops integrates Christian values into its educational approach while fostering a culture of respect for diversity.
Global Alumni Network
A strong Old Diocesan alumni network provides connections and mentorship for students and graduates.
Focus on Individual Growth
Small class sizes allow for personalized attention.
Academic and emotional support systems are in place to assist students.
Cons
High Cost
Bishops is one of the most expensive schools in South Africa, making it inaccessible to many families.
Additional costs for extracurricular activities, trips, and uniforms can add to the financial burden.
Pressure to Perform
The competitive environment may be overwhelming for some students, especially in academics and sports.
High expectations from both staff and peers can contribute to stress.
Exclusive Reputation
The school’s prestigious status may create a perception of exclusivity, limiting diversity.
Critics sometimes view it as elitist due to its high fees and social profile.
Limited Enrollment Opportunities
Admission is highly competitive, with limited places in higher grades.
Preference for applicants from feeder schools or families with historical ties to Bishops can make it harder for first-time applicants.
Boarding Challenges
While the boarding program is excellent, transitioning to a boarding lifestyle can be difficult for younger students or those not used to being away from home.
Traditional Framework
Some aspects of the school’s traditional approach may feel outdated to families seeking a more modern or progressive education style.
Geographical Limitation
Located in Cape Town, making it challenging for families not based in or near the city to enroll their children without opting for boarding.
Social Pressure
Being a prestigious school, some students might face social pressure related to maintaining status or fitting in.
Author's Review
Bishops Diocesan College stands as one of South Africa’s premier educational institutions, offering a comprehensive and world-class learning experience.
With its rich academic history, state-of-the-art facilities, and emphasis on holistic development, the school excels in nurturing well-rounded individuals who thrive both academically and in extracurricular pursuits. Its strong sports programs, arts offerings, and leadership development initiatives provide students with numerous opportunities to excel.
However, the prestigious reputation of Bishops, coupled with its high tuition fees, may make it less accessible for some families. Additionally, the pressure to perform in a competitive environment might not suit every student, especially those who may struggle with the demands of such a rigorous program.
The school’s exclusive nature and traditional framework may also deter families seeking a more modern, diverse, or affordable educational path.
In conclusion, Bishops Diocesan College is an outstanding institution for those who seek academic excellence, personal growth, and the opportunity to be part of a proud legacy. However, prospective students and their families should carefully weigh the costs, expectations, and environment to ensure it aligns with their needs and values.
