Essentials
Type of School: Day, Private
Fees per year: ZAR33 000.00 to ZAR103 000.00
Address: 170 Du Toitspan Road, Belgravia, Kimberley, 8301, South Africa
Phone Number: 053 831 1558/9
Executive Head: Craig Neave
Number of pupils: 400+
Age Range: 3-18
Email: info@stpatricks.co.za
Website: https://stpatricks.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
St. Patrick’s Christian Brothers’ College (CBC), located in Kimberley, Northern Cape, South Africa, is a prestigious Catholic institution with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1897 by the Christian Brothers from Ireland. As the first Christian Brothers’ College in South Africa, it has played a significant role in the country’s educational landscape.
Historical Background
Established on September 8, 1897, CBC Kimberley began under the leadership of its first headmaster, JJ Mulan. The school expanded rapidly, and by 1905, it had opened boarding facilities to accommodate its growing student body.
Throughout its history, the college has faced challenges, including temporary closures during the Anglo-Boer War and its use as a military hospital during World War I. Notably, in 1933, a clock tower was erected in memory of soldiers who died in the war.
Campus and Facilities
Situated at 170 Du Toitspan Road, Belgravia, Kimberley, the college boasts a blend of historic and modern facilities. The campus includes a chapel designed by Irish architect G.L. O’Connor, which opened in 1923, and a clock tower built in 1933 to honor fallen soldiers. Over the years, the school has continually upgraded its infrastructure to support a comprehensive educational experience.
Academic Excellence
St. Patrick’s CBC offers education from early childhood (age 1) through Grade 12, following the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) curriculum. The school is renowned for its small class sizes and quality teaching, providing personalized attention to students. This approach has contributed to impressive academic outcomes, including a 100% pass rate in Grade 12 exams for 14 consecutive years.
School Motto and Crest
The school’s crest features a star, cross, circle, open book, and the Alpha and Omega symbols, each carrying significant meaning:
Star: Guidance
Circle: Eternity
Cross: Christ
Open Book: Learning from an early age
Alpha and Omega: “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord.”
The college embraces two mottos: “Facere et Docere” (To Do and To Teach) and “Signum Fidei” (Sign of Faith), reflecting its commitment to education and faith.
St Patrick's CBC Contact Details
You can contact St Patrick’s CBC via their landline, email or you can visit their website for further contact details.
Phone Number: 053 831 1558/9
Email: info@stpatricks.co.za
Website: https://stpatricks.co.za/
St Patrick's CBC Address
170 Du Toitspan Road, Belgravia, Kimberley, 8301, South Africa
St Patrick's CBC Location
St Patrick’s CBC is situated in the city of Kimberly under the Northern Cape province of South Africa on Du Toitspan Road.
St Patrick's CBC Fees
St Patrick’s CBC’s fees is currently standing between ZAR33 000.00 to ZAR103 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.
St Patrick's CBC Courses & Programs
St. Patrick’s Christian Brothers’ College (CBC) in Kimberley, South Africa, offers a comprehensive educational program that spans early childhood development to matriculation (Grade 12).
Early Childhood Development Centre (Ages 1 – 5)
The Early Childhood Development Centre provides a nurturing and stimulating environment for young learners, focusing on:
Social Development: Interaction with peers and teachers to build social skills.
Cognitive Development: Early numeracy, literacy, and problem-solving activities.
Physical Development: Gross and fine motor skill activities, including play and physical education.
Creative Expression: Activities like art, music, and storytelling.
Emotional Development: Programs aimed at building self-confidence and emotional intelligence.
Primary School (Grade R – Grade 7)
The primary school program emphasizes foundational academic skills, critical thinking, and personal development. Subjects include:
Academic Core:
Languages: English (Home Language), Afrikaans or Setswana (First Additional Language)
Mathematics
Life Skills: Focus on personal development, environmental awareness, and health education.
Additional Programs:
Natural Sciences: Introduction to biology, physics, and chemistry concepts.
Social Sciences: History and Geography.
Technology: Basic computer skills and introductory coding.
Creative Arts: Music, Drama, and Visual Arts.
High School (Grade 8 – Grade 12)
The high school follows the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) curriculum, known for its rigorous academic standards. Students are prepared for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
Academic Subjects:
Core Subjects: English (Home Language), Afrikaans or Setswana (First Additional Language), Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, Life Orientation
Elective Subjects (Choose based on career interests): Physical Sciences, Life Sciences (Biology), Accounting, Business Studies, Geography, History, Information Technology (IT), Visual Arts, Drama, Economics
Additional Programs:
Advanced Program Mathematics: For students excelling in standard Mathematics.
Career Guidance and Counseling: Support in choosing career paths and applying for tertiary education.
Extracurricular Activities
St. Patrick’s CBC emphasizes holistic education by offering a range of extracurricular programs:
Sports: Cricket, Rugby, Hockey, Netball, Swimming, Athletics, Tennis, Chess
Cultural Activities: Debating and Public Speaking, Music (Choir and Instrumental), Drama, Art and Design
Clubs and Societies: Environmental Club, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Club, Community Service Initiatives, Robotics and Coding Club
Faith-Based Education
As a Catholic institution, faith is integrated into daily school life through:
Religious Education classes.
Weekly chapel services.
Community outreach programs inspired by Christian values.
Celebration of liturgical events and feast days.
Leadership and Development Programs
Student Leadership: Opportunities for students to take on leadership roles, such as becoming prefects or part of the student council.
Personal Development Programs: Workshops on time management, stress handling, and study skills.
Outdoor Education: Camps and excursions designed to build teamwork, leadership, and survival skills
Special Programs
Remedial Support: Assistance for students requiring additional academic help.
Enrichment Programs: Extension activities for gifted and talented learners.
Alumni Network Support: Career networking and mentorship opportunities for graduates.
St Patrick's CBC Vacancies and Entry Requirements
St. Patrick’s Christian Brothers’ College (CBC) in Kimberley, South Africa, offers educational programs from early childhood through Grade 12.
Admission Requirements
St. Patrick’s CBC has a structured admission process to ensure a good fit between prospective students and the school’s offerings. The following are the general requirements for application:
Entrance Assessment: All applicants aged 2 and above are required to undergo an entrance assessment to evaluate their readiness for the school’s programs.
Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee of R600.00 must accompany the application form.
Required Documents: Applicants must submit copies of the following documents along with the completed application form:
Unabridged Birth Certificate of the applicant.
Baptismal Certificate (for Catholic applicants only).
Final report from the previous year and the most current school reports or transfer letter.
Immunization record (clinic card).
Passport (if applicable).
Study Permit (if applicable).
Identity Documents of all parents or guardians.
For self-employed parents or guardians: a company letterhead and two months’ bank statements.
If the applicant’s fees are to be paid by a Trust: proof of the Trust’s undertaking to pay these fees.
Original signed debit order form (for those opting for monthly payments).
Financial Certificate completed by the current school.
Please note that applications for Grade R to Grade 12 will not be finalized until the final year-end (Term 4) reports are received, confirming that the applicant has been promoted to the grade for which they are applying. Confirmation of acceptance for the forthcoming academic year is typically provided by October of the preceding year.
St Patrick's CBC Logo
Below is the logo of St Patrick’s CBC with excellent quality and it is available to download in PNG (transparent file) JPEG and PDF.
St Patrick's CBC Logo
St Patrick's CBC Notable Alumni
Tommy Bedford – Springbok rugby captain and apartheid critic.
Donald Woods – Journalist and anti-apartheid activist.
Frank Templeton Prince – British Poet
John Briscoe – An engineer (water) and received the Stockholm Water Prize.
Patrick (Pat) Joseph Lyster – Springbok Rugby Wing, playing for the Springboks between 1933 and 1937.
Graham Etherington –Journalist and editor of Diamond Fields Advertiser
Reunert Sidney Bauser – Rugby administrator, Freemason Grand Master and Mayor of Kimberley.
John Steele Chalsty -Investment banker and Chairman of the United Nations Association of the USA
St Patrick's CBC Pros and Cons
Pros
Academic Excellence
IEB Curriculum: The school follows the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) curriculum, which is recognized for its rigorous academic standards and preparation for tertiary education.
Consistent Results: Historically, the school has maintained a 100% pass rate in matric exams, showcasing its commitment to academic success.
Small Class Sizes: Students benefit from individual attention and personalized teaching approaches due to smaller class sizes.
Holistic Education
Balanced Approach: The school emphasizes academic, cultural, sporting, and spiritual development, ensuring students develop well-rounded skills.
Extracurricular Activities: A wide variety of sports, arts, music, drama, and clubs promote physical and creative development.
Faith-Based Environment
Catholic Values: The school integrates Catholic teachings into daily life, fostering a sense of discipline, community, and moral responsibility.
Chapel Services and Religious Studies: Opportunities for spiritual growth and reflection for students of all faiths.
Leadership Opportunities
Prefect system, student council roles, and other leadership initiatives encourage responsibility and build essential skills for future endeavors.
Excellent Facilities
The campus features modern amenities blended with historical buildings, including state-of-the-art classrooms, science labs, and sports facilities.
Strong Alumni Network
The school has produced notable alumni in various fields, which reflects its ability to nurture talent and provides current students with inspiration and networking opportunities.
Community Engagement
The school actively engages with the Kimberley community through outreach programs, encouraging students to make a positive impact.
International Perspective
The IEB curriculum and the school’s emphasis on global competencies prepare students to compete internationally in higher education and careers.
Cons
High Costs
Tuition Fees: As a private independent school, tuition fees are significantly higher than public schools, which may be inaccessible for some families.
Additional Costs: Beyond tuition, there are costs for uniforms, extracurricular activities, and other school-related expenses.
Limited Access to Non-IEB Pathways
While the IEB curriculum is rigorous, it might not be ideal for students who prefer a more technical or practical education pathway, such as TVET colleges or non-academic tracks.
Pressure to Perform
The emphasis on academic and extracurricular excellence can create a high-pressure environment for students who struggle with balancing multiple demands.
Boarding Facilities
For families considering boarding options, the experience can be isolating for some students, especially younger ones.
Religious Environment
While the school welcomes students of all faiths, its strong Catholic ethos might not align with the values or preferences of some families.
Location-Specific Limitations
As a school located in Kimberley, it might not offer the same diversity of programs or global exposure as schools in larger metropolitan areas like Johannesburg or Cape Town.
Selective Admissions Process
The entrance assessment and application process might deter some families or students who find it overly competitive.
Limited Diversity in Subjects
While the school offers a range of subjects under the IEB curriculum, options like advanced technical or vocational training may not be available.
Author's Review
St Patrick’s CBC South Africa stands as a reputable institution, offering a strong foundation in academics, sports, and co-curricular activities. With a focus on holistic development, the school nurtures students not only in their academic pursuits but also in their personal growth, leadership, and community involvement.
The combination of a structured curriculum, extracurricular opportunities, and a supportive environment ensures that students are well-prepared for life beyond school.
While St Patrick’s CBC may have a traditional approach in certain aspects, such as discipline and academic expectations, its emphasis on values and character development makes it an excellent choice for students looking to excel both in and out of the classroom.
The school’s dedication to excellence in education and its focus on building responsible, well-rounded individuals makes it a strong option for families seeking a quality educational experience.
For those seeking a balanced education where academic rigor is complemented by a wide range of opportunities, St Patrick’s CBC South Africa proves to be an ideal place for students to grow, learn, and succeed.
