Moving abroad can be a challenging and hectic time. Not only do you have to find a new home and settle into work, but you also have to find the right school for your school-aged children. With over 30 years of experience, Edufax is the reliable partner when it comes to providing advice for families who are relocating abroad. We are well-acquainted with education systems in various countries, including South Africa.
We help you find the right school in South Africa
Moving abroad by itself can be very challenging, not only are you trying to settle in at work or in your new house, but you also have to find schools for your school-aged children. At Edufax we help you to find the right (international) school for your children.
For primary- and secondary schools
At Edufax we guide and advise families in finding (international) primary- and secondary schools that align with the child’s needs and values of the family. Through our relocation and consultancy services, we offer in-depth insights into both primary and secondary education systems, expert guidance, and tailored educational advice. Together with the family, we identify the most suitable options and explore schools that best match their unique needs and circumstances.
Insights into the South African education system
The South African educational system is divided into Primary School (Foundation- and Intermediate Phase) and Secondary School (Lower Secondary School and General Upper Secondary School). Both Primary School and Lower Secondary School are mandatory for all children.
Primary school
Primary education in South Africa is divided into the Foundation and Intermediate Phase. Primary School has 7 grades:
Grade R, Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3 (Foundation Fase)
Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6 (Intermediate Phase)
Children get enrolled in Primary School when they are 6 years old. The curriculum changes when the student gets older and moves on to a different grade. Grades R – 3 focuses on foundation skills in literacy, numeracy and life skills. In Grades 4-6 the curriculum expands with subjects as Math, Languages, Natural science and Life Skills.Â
Secondary school
Secondary School is divided into Lower Secondary School and General Upper Secondary School. In the senior phase, Grades 7-9, students have the opportunity to choose their subjects. Lower Secondary School is mandatory for students between the ages of 13 – 15 years old. The main subjects during Secondary School are: English, Afrikaans, Math, Economics and Management Sciences (EMS), Natural Science, Social Sciences (History and Geography), Life Orientation, Technology and Creative Arts.
Students in Upper Secondary School can choose between General Upper Secondary School with an exam at the end or Vocational Upper Secondary School with multiple exams at the end. Students who complete General Upper Secondary School receive a National Senior Certificate (NSC), while students who complete Vocational Upper Secondary School receive a National Certificate.
Different South African (international) schools near you
South Africa offers both public and private education for children between the ages of 6 and 15. While primary education is compulsory, secondary education is not. Before relocating to South Africa, Edufax can support you in exploring and selecting the schools that best fit your family’s needs.
Education and advice: before, during and after an international move
At Edufax, we support families throughout the entire relocation journey—before, during, and after moving abroad. Our services include:
Contact us
Are you planning on relocating to South Africa with your family and are you looking for (international) primary- and secondary schools? Edufax offers various services that help you find the right school for your children. Contact us if you would like to receive more information about our services or if you have any questions regarding your move to South Africa.
