Western Cape schools excel at the National Education Excellence Awards

Western Cape schools and education districts once again shone at the National Education Excellence Awards, held at the Sandton Convention Centre. The prestigious ceremony recognises outstanding achievements in teaching and learning across the country, and this year the Western Cape delegation brought home a host of top honours.

In the category of Top Performing Public Ordinary School in Quintile 5, the province made a clean sweep of the podium.

Hoёr Meisieskool Bloemhof in the Cape Winelands took 1st place for the second consecutive year. Principal Maré Bosch said, “It was an honour to attend the 11th National Education Excellence Awards, where we had the privilege of receiving recognition alongside two esteemed girls' schools.

"This acknowledgment reflects the unwavering dedication of our teachers and the commitment of our students to educational excellence. Such accolades signify the collaborative efforts of our entire community in fostering a nurturing and inspiring learning environment.”

Rhenish Girls’ High School, also in the Cape Winelands, climbed to 2nd place after ranking 3rd last year. Principal Tracey Megom described it as “a great privilege” to be recognised nationally, adding: “This award is attributed to the incredible and consistent hard work by our teachers and learners with support from our parents and the District. I am incredibly proud of our team. Congratulations to Bloemhof and Rustenburg Girls’, with the three schools proving the power and value of girls’ schools in education.”

Rustenburg Girls’ High School in Metro Central placed 3rd. Principal Michael Gates said, “We are proud to be ranked among the top three Quintile 5 schools in the country, alongside two other outstanding girls’ schools.

"This achievement is a reflection of the dedication of our staff, the commitment of our learners and parental support. Once again, girls’ schools have shown their strength, highlighting the vital role they play in South Africa’s education landscape.”

Recognition also went to schools that provide safe and nurturing physical environments for learners. Vredendal Noord Primêre School in the West Coast walked away with 1st place in the Upkeep and Maintenance of School Facilities: Primary Schools category.

Principal Julian Bates said, “Receiving the National Educational Excellence Award is a proud moment that reflects the shared commitment of an extraordinary team. Together, we've built a culture where learning drives transformation and inclusion. This recognition fuels our continued pursuit of innovation, growth, and creating lasting impact through education.” Bridgton Secondary School in Eden and Central Karoo claimed top honours in the Secondary Schools category.

The success story extended beyond schools to the province’s education districts, which excelled in several academic performance areas, particularly Mathematics and Science.

Cape Winelands emerged as a clear leader, taking 1st place in Highest NSC Mathematics Passes above 60% (2022–2024), as well as Highest Participation versus Achievement in both Mathematics and Physical Science.

District Director Noel Petersen said, “This is simply amazing for Cape Winelands Education District office. It is such a great reward for the schools, educators, learners and parents who put in many hours of committed hard work. The fact that the awards were for excellence in gateway subjects will serve to inspire and motivate so many of our schools and learners to aspire to the standards set.”

Metro Central was not far behind, earning 2nd place in Mathematics and Physical Science passes above 60%, as well as 3rd in Accounting.

Director Brenda Robertson said, “Once again, it displays the commitment and hard work of all our officials, principals, and School Management Teams. Even though our schools are faced with many challenges, today’s accolades go to all of them.”

Eden and Central Karoo impressed with two 2nd place finishes in Mathematics and Physical Science participation versus achievement.

Director Jewel Jonkers said, “I’m incredibly proud of our district’s achievements being recognized on a national stage. These awards reflect the passion and perseveance of our students, teachers, and school leaders. For me, it’s not just about the accolades it’s about knowing that our commitment to quality education is making a real difference in the lives of young people every day.”

Metro North also stood tall, securing 3rd place in Mathematics and Physical Science participation versus achievement and winning 1st place for Excellence in District Leadership and Management.

District Director Wendy Horn said, “This award is for every one of us in Metro North – in our schools and in the district office. It celebrates the daily sacrifices we make and reminds us that we truly live our motto: tough and competent at every level.

Provincial MEC for Education David Maynier, proudly shared the news about the province walking away with 21 number 1 spots and congratulated each and every recipient on their win.

tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za 

Weekend Argus