Back to School in Somerset West
As the school bells start ringing again across Somerset West, we want to take a moment to pause and say thank you to the schools shaping our children and our community. If you’re new to town or simply curious about the educational landscape here, Somerset West is quietly remarkable in what it offers. From historic institutions to forward-thinking independent schools, our village is home to an impressive range of learning environments – each with its own story.
Primary Schools with Heart and History
Schools like De Hoop and Beaumont Primary, perched between mountain and sea, boast some of the best sportsground views in the country, alongside strong academics and community values. Somerset West Primary, the oldest school in the basin, carries more than 200 years of history under its motto Nil Sine Labore – nothing without hard work. Add to that independent schools like Bizweni Primary and Somerset House, and you’ll find a mix of tradition, faith-based education, and holistic development that has served generations of families well.
All-Through Learning Journeys
For families looking for continuity, Somerset West offers excellent all-through schools. Newberry House stands out for its Montessori-to-matric pathway and global recognition for environmental leadership. Generation School blends Montessori, IEB and Cambridge approaches, while Somerset College, set on a beautiful Winelands estate, is known for its holistic education, strong values and academic excellence.
High Schools Shaping Futures
At the high school level, Parel Vallei High is widely respected for its academic and cultural achievements (like making the list of Top 10 Schools in the Western Cape), while Hottentots-Holland High brings decades of bilingual education and deep local roots (evolving from the roots of Somerset West Primary). Somerset West Private School offers a more focused academic pathway, particularly strong in maths and science, supporting learners through to post-matric level. In terms of independent high schools, Curro Somerset West is another strong option that follows the IEB curriculum, with teaching in English and class sizes capped at 25 learners to allow for more personal attention.
We are incredibly grateful to the teachers, staff and governing bodies that make it possible to offer such a wide variety of world-class education to the children of Somerset West.
Welcome back – here’s to another year of learning with love and excellence!