Curro’s success story is one of those rare tales where a simple idea, fueled by passion and determination, transforms into a national institution.
What began as a modest home school in 1998 has grown into South Africa’s largest private school network, educating over 72,000 learners across 189 schools. But how did this remarkable journey unfold? Let’s dive into the story behind Curro’s rise to prominence.
The Humble Beginnings of Curro
It all started with a conversation on a stoep in 1997. Dr. Chris van der Merwe, then a 31-year-old deputy headteacher, had just been rejected for a departmental position. His wife, Stephnie, posed a life-changing question: “Are you going to be a deputy head for the rest of your life? Why don’t we start our own home school?”
This question sparked the idea for Curro. Initially, the plan was simple: teach 40 Grade 4 learners in English and Afrikaans, gradually expanding to higher grades. But word spread quickly, and soon, parents were urging them to think bigger. “Surely you can’t take only 40 learners. It must be a bigger school,” they said.
Chris, along with co-founders Boetie Ungerer, Eddie Conradie, and Thys Franken, took the leap. They printed 40,000 pamphlets, using SkoolCor’s printing facilities, and listed Chris’s home number as the contact. Despite initial setbacks—no building, no office, and no secretary—the calls eventually started pouring in.
On a rainy morning in July 1998, Curro opened its doors for the first time in a church in Vierlanden, with just 28 learners. It was a modest start, but the foundation for something extraordinary had been laid.
The Growth of a Vision
Curro’s early years were far from easy. Chris and his team faced countless challenges, from securing funding to meeting enrollment targets. At one point, Chris was paying teachers out of his own bond. But he refused to give up.
The turning point came when Curro built its first campus in Durbanville. With 10 bricklayers and 30 laborers, they constructed a school that would become the blueprint for future campuses. By 2010, Curro had grown significantly, turning a profit and catching the attention of investors.
In 2011, Curro made history by listing on the JSE’s Alternative Exchange (AltX). The share price, initially set at R5.50, soared to R11 within hours. A year later, Curro moved to the JSE’s Main Board, cementing its status as a major player in South Africa’s education sector.
Curro Today: A National Powerhouse
Today, Curro’s success story is nothing short of remarkable. With 189 schools, 72,758 learners, and a revenue of over R4.7 billion in 2023, Curro has redefined private education in South Africa. But what sets Curro apart isn’t just its scale—it’s its mission.
Over 30,000 of Curro’s learners come from previously disadvantaged communities, and the company maintains a matric pass rate of over 99%. Curro also employs 5,000 staff members, including 2,700 educators, 38% of whom are black. Beyond education, Curro contributes to teacher development and community upliftment, proving that business success and social impact can go hand in hand.
Lesser-Known Facts About Curro
- The Name “Curro”: The name comes from the Latin word “currere,” meaning “to run.” It symbolizes the drive and momentum behind the company’s mission.
- A Teacher’s Dream: Chris van der Merwe never intended to build a business empire. His goal was simply to provide affordable, quality education.
- The First Campus: The first Curro campus in Durbanville was built by hand, with Chris and his team literally laying the bricks.
- JSE Listing: Curro’s listing on the JSE was a watershed moment for private education in South Africa, proving that education could be both a social good and a profitable business.
- Stadio Holdings: In 2017, Chris stepped down as Curro’s CEO to found Stadio Holdings, Curro’s higher education division, which is also listed on the JSE.
Advice from Dr. Chris van der Merwe
Chris’s journey offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs:
- Hang on to your dream: Success takes time, and setbacks are inevitable. But perseverance pays off.
- Start small, think big: Curro began with just 28 learners, but the vision was always to make a national impact.
- Focus on purpose: Profit is important, but it shouldn’t be the sole driver. Curro’s success is rooted in its mission to serve South Africa.
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Conclusion: Curro’s Success Story Continues
Curro’s success story is a testament to the power of vision, hard work, and unwavering belief in a dream. From a small home school to a JSE-listed giant, Curro has not only transformed South Africa’s education landscape but also inspired countless entrepreneurs to dream big.
As Curro continues to grow, its mission remains the same: to provide affordable, quality education for all. And that, perhaps, is the most remarkable part of Curro’s success story.
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