Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Cape Town
Summary: If you're moving to Cape Town with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Cape Town
Cape Town, is a vibrant city that offers a diverse range of educational options for expat and digital nomad families. While not as large as cities like London or New York, Cape Town still boasts a selection of quality international and bilingual schools. Among the most popular are the American International School of Cape Town and the International School of Cape Town, both known for their comprehensive curriculums and diverse student bodies. Here is a list of recommended schools for expat kids in and around Cape Town.
American International School of Cape Town (AISCT)
Grades: Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Constantia
Website: www.aisct.org
The American International School of Cape Town offers an American curriculum with Advanced Placement (AP) courses for high school students. The school boasts excellent facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports fields. AISCT also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports to performing arts, and has a diverse student body representing over 60 nationalities.
International School of Cape Town (ISCT)
Grades: Reception Year through Grade 12
Location(s): Woodstock and Constantia
Website: www.isct.co.za
The International School of Cape Town follows the British curriculum, offering the Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) at the IGCSE and A-Level. ISCT prides itself on its small class sizes, pastoral care, and a well-rounded education that includes a variety of extracurricular activities. The school's campuses feature modern classrooms, computer labs, and sports facilities.
German International School Cape Town (DSK)
Grades: Grade 1 through Grade 12
Location(s): Tamboerskloof
Website: www.dsk.co.za
The German International School Cape Town offers a bilingual education in German and English, following the German curriculum. DSK is known for its strong academic program, cultural diversity, and excellent matriculation results. The school has modern facilities, including a media center, science labs, and sports fields, and offers a wide range of extracurricular activities.
French School of Cape Town (Lycée Français du Cap)
Grades: Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Sea Point
Website: www.ecolefrancaiseducap.co.za
The French School of Cape Town is part of the AEFE network of French schools abroad and offers a curriculum based on the French education system. The school provides a multilingual environment with a focus on French, English, and a third language option. It features excellent facilities, including a library, computer rooms, and sports areas, and encourages participation in various cultural and extracurricular activities.
Reddam House Atlantic Seaboard
Grades: Early Learning Stage 1 through Grade 12
Location(s): Green Point
Website: www.reddamhouse.com
Reddam House Atlantic Seaboard is part of the global Inspired Education Group and offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme alongside the Cambridge curriculum. The school is known for its holistic approach to education, focusing on academic, cultural, and sporting development. Reddam House boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a wide array of extracurricular options.
Hout Bay International School (HBIS)
Grades: Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Hout Bay
Website: www.houtbay.iesedu.com
Hout Bay International School is an IB World School offering the Primary Years, Middle Years, and Diploma Programmes. HBIS emphasizes a global perspective, with a student body representing over 50 nationalities. The school provides a nurturing environment with a strong focus on community service and environmental awareness, alongside excellent academic and extracurricular programs.
Blouberg International School
Grades: Reception Year through Grade 12
Location(s): Bloubergstrand
Website: www.blouberginternational.co.za
Blouberg International School follows the British curriculum and offers Cambridge IGCSE and AS/A-Level qualifications. The school is known for its supportive learning environment, modern facilities, and a strong emphasis on the development of leadership skills. Blouberg International provides a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama, to complement its academic offerings.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Public Transportation in Cape Town
- Best Markets in Cape Town
- Retire in Cape Town Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Cape Town
- Pros & Cons of Living in Cape Town
- Tips for Expats Driving in Cape Town
- Cost of Living in Cape Town
- Health Care in Cape Town
- Discovering the Best of Cape Town
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in South Africa
- Best Places to Live in South Africa
- Real Estate in South Africa
- Pros & Cons of Living in South Africa
- Culture Shock in South Africa
- Pros and Cons of Living in South Africa 2024