Unlock your child's potential at Port Alfred High School
Category Property News
Whether your child is bookish, sporty, a public speaker, or a quiet organiser, there's a school where they'll feel right at home. Port Alfred High School, in the heart of the East Bank suburb, is a renowned institution with a keen belief in nurturing all aspects of a child's development. It places a focus on academics, sports, and culture within a happy and healthy environment. Now celebrating its 140-year anniversary, Port Alfred High School has a proud history of building confident, independent, multi-skilled, and adaptable South Africans.
A timeline of triumphs
As the oldest school in town, Port Alfred High School has a long and illustrious history. It was officially converted into a government school in 1883 and housed in an Anglican church building on Park Road. The school would eventually be awarded high school status in 1979.
The first matric class had a 100% pass rate and this dedication to excellence remains today. In the past year, Port Alfred High School had a 94% pass rate and produced 37 distinctions. It's hardly a surprise considering this driven school's motto "Facta Non Verba" means "deeds and not words". While a lot has changed (which you can see from the school's fascinating timeline on its website), there's still a priority to instil honesty, integrity, grit and determination, perseverance, and loyalty as qualities in learners.
Leaders in learning
And who is championing student success? At the core lies a dedicated team of experienced educators who work closely with respective parents/guardians to ensure every child reaches their full potential. In a rapidly changing world, there's a focus on ensuring learners have the know-how to adapt and achieve their goals.
The staff at Port Alfred High School are led by the capable Nigel Adams, who took the reins as the new principal in 2020. Adams believes in giving learners an inclusive education where staff are aware of the challenges children will face. "They need a space where they can be themselves. All children need our support as well as role models to look up to," he said following his appointment.
Excellence in every lesson
Port Alfred High School's education lays down a solid foundation for your child's future. The aim is to ensure they leave as well-adjusted adults who can take their place in society as responsible and empowered leaders committed to making a difference. To do this, the school uses a curriculum it describes as "collaborative, holistic, balanced, and inclusive".
For parents interested in their child's future prospects, the school has a solid reputation for being a stepping stone to further education. In 2021, the school's matric results were the second highest in the Ndlambe Local Municipality. It achieved a staggering 40 Bachelor's degree passes.
Beyond the books
In keeping with their balanced approach to education, the school offers sports, cultural endeavours, and extracurricular activities. This is done through a partnership with various clubs and associations within the Port Alfred community. Your child can find their passion in archery, chess, cricket, debating, first aid, glee club, golf, hockey, and rugby, to name a few.
Exciting events also add colour to the school's calendar. The school's matric dance, for example, often makes the local headlines with its display of beautiful ball gowns and spiffy suits. 2017's production of Fame is still talked about with glowing praise. It featured a minimalist set, an armada of guitars, a drum set and bleachers, an eccentric ensemble of 80s costumes, and a cast of talented young performers.
Quality education on your doorstep
Port Alfred High School isn't just another school but a testament to the area's commitment to nurturing the next generation. With its focus on academics, sports, culture, and extracurricular activities, your child will leave well-rounded and ready to take on life's challenges. If you're on the property hunt, you'll find East Bank offers easy access to this enriching environment for your child. View our properties for sale or properties to let and reach out to us today.
Author: Lew Geffen Sotheby's International Realty