Summerhill INTERNATIONAL College · Grades 8 – 12 · Midrand
An Education
Without Limits
Internationally backed, dual curriculum education that prepares students for South African universities and the world's most prestigious institutions.
College school hours · Monday–Friday: 08:00–16:00
Welcome
A Message from our College Principal
"It is with great pride and purpose that I write to you as the principal of Summerhill International College - a place where every student matters and every effort is made to nurture both academic excellence and personal growth.
At the heart of our school are the values that guide everything we do: integrity, respect, compassion, and a commitment to lifelong learning. These values not only shape our teaching but the character of the young people we are privileged to educate.
In academics, we are working to build a curriculum that challenges and inspires while supporting diverse learning needs. We are introducing more opportunities for innovation, inquiry-based learning, and digital integration to ensure our students are well-prepared for the world beyond the classroom.
Our goal is to support the whole child - not only intellectual development, but emotional well-being, leadership skills, and character education. We are enhancing student support services, expanding extra-curricular opportunities, and placing a stronger emphasis on values-based education and personal responsibility.
Importantly, we recognise and celebrate the individuality of every learner. We believe that every student has the capacity to excel when they are given the right environment, the right support, and the belief that they can succeed."
Viven Naidoo
College Principal, Summerhill School
Our Vision
"We believe that, in addition to the average education currently available in South Africa, it would be highly advantageous to place our students in a position where they can gain access to the prestigious tertiary education systems of other countries."
- Mrs Sonja Morshead, Founder
Academic Pathways
Two World-Class Curricula. One School.
Summerhill College is one of a select group of South African schools offering genuine dual curriculum pathways, giving families and students the freedom to choose the examination body that best fits their future.
South African Independent
IEB Curriculum
National Senior Certificate via IEB
The Independent Examinations Board (IEB) delivers the National Senior Certificate through its own rigorous assessment framework. Regarded as highly demanding and academically robust, the IEB NSC is accepted by all South African universities and respected by international institutions.
International
Cambridge International
IGCSE · AS/A Levels
Cambridge Assessment International Examinations (CIE) is the world's largest provider of international qualifications. Cambridge qualifications are recognised by universities in over 157 countries through a network of 6,000+ Cambridge schools.
Cambridge Pathway
The Cambridge Framework at Summerhill
Students follow a progressive pathway through the Cambridge framework, building mastery and international recognition at each stage.
Cambridge years compared with South African grades
| Cambridge Year | South African Grade |
|---|---|
| Foundation Year | Grade 8 |
| IGCSE 1 | Grade 9 |
| IGCSE 2 | Grade 10 |
| AS Level 1 | Grade 11 |
| AS Level 2 | Grade 12 |
| A Level (Optional) | Grade 13 / Advanced pre-university level |
Cambridge Foundation Year
Develops knowledge and skills in Mathematics, English and Science, building a foundation for the IGCSE years ahead.
- English
- Mathematics
- Science
- Global Perspectives
- Optional additional subjects
Cambridge IGCSE
The IGCSE 1 and IGCSE 2 years develop subject knowledge and prepare students for AS/A Levels.
- Core Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
- Mathematics
- English Language & Literature
- Humanities & Social Sciences
- Languages & Arts
Cambridge AS/A Levels
AS Level 1 corresponds to Grade 11 and AS Level 2 to Grade 12. An optional A Level year corresponds to Grade 13 for advanced pre-university study.
- Subject specialisation (3–4 AS subjects)
- Extended essays and independent research
- Direct pathways to international tertiary institutions
- Highly valued by admissions offices worldwide
Subject Offerings
Academic Subjects at the College
A broad range of subjects across the IEB and Cambridge streams. Subject availability and combinations may vary by year group - contact us for current subject lists.
Languages
- English Home Language
- Afrikaans Home/First Additional Language
- English Literature (Cambridge)
- Additional language electives
Sciences & Mathematics
- Mathematics
- Mathematical Literacy
- Physical Sciences
- Life Sciences
- Chemistry (Cambridge)
- Physics (Cambridge)
- Biology (Cambridge)
Humanities & Commerce
- History
- Geography
- Business Studies
- Economics
- Accounting
- Life Orientation
- Global Perspectives (Cambridge)
Creative
- Visual Arts
- Dramatic Arts
Technology
- Information Technology
- Computer Science (Cambridge)
- CAT (IEB)
Co-Curricular & Leadership
- President's Award Programme
- Sports Leadership
- School Council & Prefects
- Entrepreneurship projects
- Career Guidance Programme
International Education in Midrand
An International School in Midrand for Local and Globally Mobile Families
Summerhill College serves families across Midrand, Waterfall, Kyalami, Centurion and northern Johannesburg who want a recognised international education close to home. For families relocating to or from South Africa, access to both IEB and Cambridge pathways offers valuable choice and academic continuity.
Continuity for Mobile Families
Relocating across borders can interrupt a child's academic progress. The Cambridge pathway provides an internationally familiar framework, while the IEB pathway maintains a strong route through the South African education system.
University & Career Guidance
Choosing the right tertiary path requires expertise. We provide dedicated guidance to help students navigate complex university application processes, personal statements, and entry requirements for institutions worldwide.
Internationally Recognised Credentials
Whether planning to apply to a South African university through the IEB or considering institutions abroad through Cambridge, students can follow a recognised pathway aligned with their future plans.
Leadership & Character
Beyond the Classroom
Summerhill College develops young men and women of character - equipped with the academic credentials, life skills and leadership qualities to make their mark on the world.
President's Award
South Africa's premier youth empowerment programme, available at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. Challenges students across physical recreation, skill development, voluntary service and adventure.
Competitive Sport
Cricket, swimming, netball, soccer, tennis and athletics. Competing at inter-school level across Midrand and greater Gauteng, with a focus on both excellence and sportsmanship.
Arts & Culture
Drama, visual arts and Eisteddfod participation. We believe artistic expression is a key dimension of every learner's development and encourage all students to find their creative voice.
Leadership Structures
A robust prefect body and student council give learners formal leadership responsibilities. Students learn to lead by serving - a value embedded throughout their time at the College.
Student Wellbeing
Support for Every Learner
We recognise that academic success requires emotional and social wellbeing. Our student support structures are designed to ensure that every learner feels safe, valued and motivated to achieve.
Academic Support
Early identification of learners who may need additional support, with individualised programmes and parental collaboration.
Emotional Wellbeing
A school counsellor and pastoral care team provide guidance for students navigating adolescence, stress, and life challenges.
Career Guidance
From Grade 10, students receive structured career counselling, university application support and exposure to various career pathways.
Mentoring Programme
Senior students mentor their peers, and teachers maintain close pastoral relationships ensuring no student slips through unnoticed.
School Life Gallery
In Pictures
Parent Voices
What Our College Families Say
A great school offering both Cambridge and IEB and producing outstanding results!
Hastings Mp KaNyandeni
Summerhill parent
Frequently Asked Questions
College: Parent & Student Questions
Applications Open
Start Your College Journey at Summerhill
We welcome applications for Grades 8 to 12. Come and see our facilities, meet our teaching team, and discover what a dual-curriculum education can open for your child's future.