Michaelhouse has been named one of the best schools in the world. The boarding school for boys is renowned for its sports, academics, and cultural activities.
Michaelhouse’s history dates back to the nineteenth century. It was founded in 1896 by James Cameron Todd, a British Anglican canon.
At the time, very few institutions in South Africa offered education beyond Standard VII (Grade 9). Unlike the current standard, private schools often struggled to produce consistent matriculation results.
During his early years in South Africa, Todd realised the need for a high-calibre boys’ school in the region.
The school was tiny at the start, with Todd welcoming just 15 boys in two modest houses on Loop Street in Pietermaritzburg.
The school would eventually outgrow its original premises and relocate to Balgowan in KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, with the number of students increasing to 77.
Despite now charging R392,000 per year for students, Michaelhouse’s early years were characterised by a lack of access to basic services. The boys helped farm the land to supplement their food supply.
Michaelhouse’s reputation continued to grow throughout the twentieth century. It is now renowned for its excellent grounds and strong academic performance.
Academically, the school achieved a 100% pass rate in the 2024 Independent Examinations Board (IEB) exams.
Boys from Michaelhouse also frequently progress to the top universities worldwide due to the transferrable nature of South African school qualifications.
In addition to the excellent education standards at the school, several other ports, clubs, and activities are on offer within the college’s massive grounds.
This includes 12 playing fields, tennis courts, cricket grounds and a golf driving range. On the cultural side, there are ceramics rooms, art studios and nine musical practice rooms.
