KwaZulu-Natal private schools rank as some of the world’s best
Four KwaZulu-Natal private schools have been named among the world’s top 100 institutions in a new ranking.
KwaZulu-Natal has cemented its reputation as South Africa’s private education powerhouse, with four of its schools recognised among the world’s best in the Spear’s Magazine 2025 Schools Index.
Hilton College, Michaelhouse, St Anne’s Diocesan College, and Cordwalles Preparatory School all earned spots in the prestigious ranking of the top 100 private schools globally.
They were joined by Western Province Preparatory School from Cape Town as the only other South African institution on the list.
KZN private schools amongst the best in the world
Now in its sixth year, the Spear’s Schools Index is compiled by a panel of international education experts who assess schools on academic results, reputation, and cultural and social factors.
It’s widely regarded as a global benchmark for families seeking world-class private education.
Spear’s describes its index as “the definitive ranking” of the world’s leading private schools — one that values more than just grades. The magazine’s panel increasingly considers ethos, character development, and school culture as measures of excellence.
For KwaZulu-Natal, the recognition highlights the province’s deep educational tradition and continued investment in holistic schooling.
Hilton College and Michaelhouse in the Midlands consistently top national rankings for both academics and sports.
St Anne’s Diocesan College, one of the country’s leading all-girls schools, and Cordwalles Preparatory School, a premier prep institution in Pietermaritzburg, further underscore KZN’s strength across age groups.
Most expensive too
But global prestige comes at a price.
According to January 2025 data, private school fees in South Africa have climbed sharply, with several KZN institutions among the most expensive in the country.
Hilton College tops the national list at R420 729 per year, followed by Michaelhouse at R392 000.
As education costs rise, KwaZulu-Natal’s top schools continue to prove that excellence and tradition remain in high demand, both locally and on the global stage.