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Top 5 International Schools in South Africa You Must Know

April 29, 2025
Five different school buildings

South Africa, known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, is also a hub for world-class education. The country is home to some of the finest international schools that offer a broad curriculum, excellent facilities, and a multicultural environment. These schools are known for their commitment to academic excellence, holistic development, and global citizenship. In this blog post, we will explore the top five international schools in South Africa that you must know about.

1. American International School of Johannesburg

About the School

The American International School of Johannesburg (AISJ) is a leading international school that offers a comprehensive American-style education. Founded in 1982, the school has two campuses located in Johannesburg and Pretoria.

AISJ is known for its diverse student body, representing over 50 nationalities. The school offers a nurturing environment that encourages students to be creative, critical thinkers, and global citizens.

Curriculum and Facilities

The school follows the American curriculum from Pre-K to Grade 12, including the Advanced Placement (AP) program. It also offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme for students in the final two years of high school.

AISJ boasts state-of-the-art facilities including science labs, art studios, a theatre, sports fields, and a swimming pool. The school also has a strong emphasis on technology, with a 1:1 laptop program for students in Grades 4 to 12.

2. British International College in Bryanston

About the School

The British International College (BIC) in Bryanston is a co-educational independent school that offers a British-style education. The school is known for its high academic standards, a broad range of extracurricular activities, and a strong sense of community.

BIC has a diverse student body, with students from various cultural backgrounds. The school encourages students to be independent learners and active participants in their learning process.

Curriculum and Facilities

BIC follows the British National Curriculum from Reception to Year 13, including the Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level programmes. The school also offers the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, a globally recognised program for young people.

The school’s facilities include science labs, art and music studios, a library, sports facilities, and a cafeteria. BIC also offers a variety of clubs and societies, from drama and debate to chess and robotics.

3. International School of South Africa

About the School

The International School of South Africa (ISSA) is a boarding and day school that offers a British-style education. Located in Mafikeng, the school is set on a beautiful 54-hectare campus.

ISSA is known for its academic rigour, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and a strong emphasis on character development. The school has a diverse student body, with students from over 20 different countries.

Curriculum and Facilities

ISSA follows the British National Curriculum from Reception to Year 13, including the Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level programmes. The school also offers the BTEC National Diploma in Business, a vocational qualification recognised worldwide.

The school’s facilities include science labs, a library, art and music studios, sports fields, a swimming pool, and a horse-riding centre. ISSA also offers a variety of clubs and societies, from drama and music to sports and community service.

4. Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg

About the School

The Deutsche Internationale Schule Johannesburg (DSJ) is a German international school that offers a bilingual education in German and English. The school is known for its strong academic program, cultural activities, and a sense of community.

DSJ has a diverse student body, with students from various cultural backgrounds. The school encourages students to be open-minded, responsible, and respectful individuals.

Curriculum and Facilities

DSJ follows the German curriculum from Grade 1 to 12, including the German International Abitur. The school also offers the Cambridge IGCSE programme for students who wish to continue their studies in English.

The school’s facilities include science labs, a library, art and music studios, sports fields, and a swimming pool. DSJ also offers a variety of clubs and societies, from drama and music to sports and community service.

5. French School of Cape Town

About the School

The French School of Cape Town, also known as Lycée Français du Cap, is a French international school that offers a bilingual education in French and English. The school is known for its high academic standards, cultural activities, and a strong sense of community.

The school has a diverse student body, with students from various cultural backgrounds. The school encourages students to be open-minded, responsible, and respectful individuals.

Curriculum and Facilities

The school follows the French curriculum from nursery to high school, including the French Baccalaureate. The school also offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme for students in the final two years of high school.

The school’s facilities include science labs, a library, art and music studios, sports fields, and a swimming pool. The French School of Cape Town also offers a variety of clubs and societies, from drama and music to sports and community service.

In conclusion, these top five international schools in South Africa offer a world-class education, excellent facilities, and a multicultural environment. Whether you’re looking for an American, British, South African, German, or French curriculum, these schools offer a variety of options to suit your child’s educational needs.

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