by Beverley Wilcock
Choosing a school in Joburg can feel like a full-time job with homework. You want to give your kids the best education possible, but private schooling can cost a lot, and sometimes there really isn't any amount of "smart budgeting" that could make it a viable option. There's no reason to worry, though; there's no one single road to a successful future, and there are a multitude of public schools in Joburg that'll give your children a fabulous foundation. After doing some research, we're proud to present some public schools in Joburg that have excellent reviews.
Bryneven Primary School
You don't want a Daddy Day Care situation on your hands...and you do want to ensure your kiddos get off to a great start. At Bryneven Primary School, they can aim high across all disciplines, whether they're budding academics or the next Jonty Rhodes.
Bryneven even offers coding, ballet, and marimba lessons; you can rest assured that your children are being offered all the resources they need to explore their interests and become well-rounded citizens. Club Engage also keeps kids safe and engaged after school and during school holidays.
Details: Bryanston | 011 463 1453/011 463 1429 | [email protected] / [email protected] | https://www.bryneven.co.za/
Blairgowrie Primary School
Are smaller classrooms and an academic support department the first things you look for in a primary school? Blairgowrie Primary School ticks both of these boxes. Scholars learn at a pace suited to them, and music is just as important as sports. They'll even coach your little ones through their Eisteddfod performances.
Your budding eco-warriors and linguists are also catered for, with an Eco Club and South African Sign Language offered as extra murals.
Visit Blairgowrie’s website to take the virtual tour or join their open day on 07 March 2026.
Details: Blairgowrie | 011 782 5406 or WhatsApp on 063 907 4693 [email protected] | https://blairgowrieprimary.org.za/
Montrose Primary School
One or two reasons may not be enough when choosing a school, and that's understandable. How about 22 reasons? Montrose Primary School adds value to your child's days like few other schools in the area.
Unlike back in the day when playtime ended when the streetlights came on, Montrose offers both night cricket and netball. Moreover, many students have gone on to be offered bursaries at high-ranking private schools across the country. Visit their website for all 22 reasons why Montrose may be right for your family.
Details: Parkmore | 011 783 7575 | [email protected] | https://www.montrose.org.za/
Greenside High School
If you're looking for the literal best in Joburg, look no further. Greenside High School was voted the best public high school in Joburg in 2019, 2022, and 2023. Their facilities are quite impeccable; the Technology Centre has robotics and a 3D printer, which is something you'd have a hard time finding in most private schools.
There's a strong emphasis on appreciation of arts and culture, too, so your teenagers will have the opportunity to be part of choirs, explore physical theatre, and take both traditional and contemporary dance lessons. Their motto is all about learning, growing, and thriving individually through community, and we love this.
Details: Geers Avenue, Greenside | 011 646-0113 | [email protected] | https://www.greensidehigh.co.za/
Jeppe High School for Boys
Always loved Dead Poets Society? Maybe the Spud franchise resonates with you? This could be your son’s reality at Jeppe High School for Boys. There’s a wide range of diverse clubs to join, and each student is part of a house to teach teamwork and sportsmanship. (There are no talking hats or dragons involved, unfortunately.)
Your aspiring sports stars will also be well supported at Jeppe, whether they’re the next Chad le Clos, Shaquille O’Neil, or Benni McCarthy.
Details: Kensington | 011 614 1938 | [email protected] | https://jeppeboys.co.za
Jeppe High School for Girls
At the sister school to Jeppe High School for Boys, the motto is "nothing is too difficult for the brave." Alongside more mainstream after-school activities, Jeppe girls can play cricket, learn first aid, or join a band. (“I’m starting a band, baby!” kind of vibes.)
Their matric results are also outstanding every year, and the Ruth First Jeppe Memorial Trust Scholarship is available for families who may need extra support. For more information on the scholarship, visit the scholarship website here: https://www.ruthfirstjeppetrust.co.za/
Details: 160 Roberts Avenue, Kensington | 011 616 5090/1 or 011 622 4550https://jeppegirls.co.za/
Randburg Clinic School
Every child needs different resources to thrive, right? At Randburg Clinic School, this is a principle they take seriously; some children may be different, but they are never less. Kids aged four to 18+ thrive at Randburg Clinic School.
This public school is open to learners with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other special behavioural needs. Here, learners follow their own, individualised education programme and have access to all the therapies they need to succeed. Visit your local District Education office to apply.
Details: Randburg | 011 886 1280/011 781 8936 [email protected] | https://www.randburgclinicschool.co.za/
If there's one message to be taken from this article, it's that private schooling isn't the only path to success. Plenty of public schools in Joburg offer strong academics, facilities comparable to their pricier private counterparts, and communities that show up with students' best interests at heart. Tour a few, trust your gut, and pack tissues for that first-day drop-off. Joburg has more great options than you think.
Are there any other fabulous public schools you feel should've made this list? Let us know!
