Skip to content 
Top 10 best high schools in Gauteng are a mix of elite private institutions and standout public schools.
These schools are selected based on academic passes, facilities, fees, and reputation. Each one offers unique strengths.
1. St John’s College
A leading Christian boys’ school established in 1898. Known for stellar results, century-long tradition, and a robust academic and sports environment.
2. Roedean School for Girls
An all-girls private boarding school in Parktown. Known for balancing academic excellence with arts and sports, it nurtures well-rounded leadership.
3. Parktown High School for Girls
Ranked top public girls’ high school, located in a peaceful suburb. Strong academics, rich traditions, structured approach.
4. Parktown Boys’ High School
A historic, high-performing boys’ public school. It maintains near-perfect matric pass rates, with a strong emphasis on values and discipline.
5. Horizon High School
A standout co-ed public high school with consistent academic performance and active participation in sports and culture.
6. St Stithians College
A leading Methodist co-ed school in Sandton. Offers day and boarding options, top academic results, and extensive sport and cultural programs.
7. St Peter’s College
An independent Anglican co-ed school in Sandton. High pass rates, Christian ethos, and strong academic culture.
8. Hoërskool Waterkloof
A bilingual Afrikaans/English public school near Pretoria. Known for academic excellence over decades and top matric results.
9. St Benedict’s College
An all-boys Catholic private school. The only school with no matric fails since 1974 and near-perfect university entrance rates.
10. Redhill School
An IEB and IB co-ed private school in Sandton. Well-rounded education with global curricula and international focus.
Honourable mention: St Mary’s School Waverley
A top private Anglican girls’ school in Johannesburg, oldest in the city. Known for academic achievement and all-round education.
Key evaluation criteria
- Academic performance (matric pass rates, university entrance)
- Extracurricular strengths (sports, arts, leadership)
- Reputation and legacy
- Fees structure (public vs private)
- Boarder vs day scholar options
Core takeaways
- Five of the top ten are elite private schools
- Bilingual public schools are among the best
- Consistent high matric results define prestige
- Sandton/Johannesburg offers many top private options
- Pretoria offers strong Afrikaans/English public options
Middle Class Suburbs in Cape Town: Top Picks 2025
Final thoughts: Top 10 best high schools in Gauteng
Top 10 best high schools in Gauteng represent academic strength, well-rounded student growth, and long-term outcomes. Whether you’re seeking future STEM leaders, cultural contributors, or sports champions, these schools deliver excellence. Evaluate based on budget, location, curriculum, and values to pick the right one for your child.
Get the latest entrepreneurial success stories, expert tips, and exclusive updates delivered straight to your inbox — Sign up for Entrepreneur Hub SA’s newsletter today!
