International Schools in Cape Town

International schools in Cape Town are a popular choice for expat parents. Standards are generally high, and international schools are often staffed by expat teachers experienced in delivering the core curriculum of their home system. Consistency, continuity, and a sense of familiarity at school can be immeasurably helpful for children adjusting to such a significant move.

A further advantage is an opportunity for expat children to form connections with children from diverse countries and backgrounds who share the complex experience of being an expat child. Parents, too, can benefit from connecting with fellow expats in the school's community.

International schools in Cape Town

American International School of Cape Town

The American International School of Cape Town (AISCT) is home to around 500 students of 50 nationalities. Located in Constantia Hill, AISCT follows the Northern Hemisphere calendar and the school has committed to continually developing its teachers. In addition to English tuition, the school also offers foreign language instruction in French and Spanish from Grade 1. 

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: American (including Advanced Placement)
Ages: 2 to 18
Website: www.aisct.org

Deutsche Schule Kapstadt

The Deutsche Schule Kapstadt (DSK) has two campuses in Cape Town that welcome its diverse school community of more than 50 nationalities. DSK is a German and English bilingual school, boasting 100 percent Arbitur and matric pass rates. Students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including drama, sports, and music. 

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: German and South African (IEB)
Ages: 5 to 18
Website: www.dsk.co.za

Hout Bay International School

Hout Bay International School is located in the Hout Bay Valley, between the Atlantic Ocean and the mountain peaks. The school prides itself on its student-centred approach that produces academic excellence. Hout Bay International School emphasises cultural integration, with the aim of developing global leaders who are communicative and collaborative. 

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate and British (Cambridge IGCSE)
Ages: 3 to 19
Website: www.houtbayinternational.co.za

International School of Cape Town

With two campuses in Wynberg and Claremont, the International School of Cape Town (ISCT) is the premier centre for British education in Cape Town. The school is renowned for its academic excellence thanks to its focus on in-depth subject knowledge. Students at ISCT can easily transfer to more than 10,000 Cambridge Schools in over 160 countries across nine regions. 

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: British (English National Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE and A-levels)
Ages: 3.5 to 18
Website: www.isct.co.za

L'école Française du Cap

Founded in 1985, the International French School of Cape Town offers three internationally recognised diplomas: the French Baccalauréat, the British International Section and the Cambridge International Examination. The school is located across two campuses and focuses on academic as well as civics and sports to holistically develop its students. 

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: French and British (Cambridge IGCSE)
Ages: 2 to 18
Website: www.ecolefrancaiseducap.co.za

Reddam House Durbanville

Reddam House Durbanville is a top private school offering the IEB and British curricula. The school provides individualised attention to its students to ensure that they recognise their unique gifts and abilities. Parents can rest assured that their children will receive the best care and safeguarding as Reddam House offers dedicated pastoral care. 

Gender: Co-educational
Curriculum: South African (IEB) and British (Cambridge IGCSE and A-levels) 
Ages: 1 to 18
Website: durbanville.reddamhouse.com

Note: Many expats send their children to one of the excellent private schools in Cape Town rather than an international school.