Matric Results
Somerset College has selected the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) as its Grade 9 and Matriculation examination provider, while following the National Curriculum Statements published by the Department of Education. Skills such as thinking, critical analysis, personal organisation, teamwork and communication are central to our teaching philosophy.
Somerset College has always strived for excellence in academics while staying true to our ethos of holistic education and our values of Dignity, Aspiration, Creativity and Contribution. The matrics of 2023 achieved a remarkable average of 3.2 A symbols per student. The school has maintained an average of 3 A symbols or higher per student over the past seven years. Furthermore, we are thrilled to have maintained our unbroken record of 100% BD pass rate which ensures that, once again, the doors of universities are open to all of our esteemed students.
In addition to a 100% university entrance pass rate and an exceptional average of 3.2 A symbols achieved per student, numerous students featured in the upper echelons of the IEB results nationally.
- Helen Basson was awarded a Commendable Achievement award for achieving within the top 5% of all IEB candidates nationally in five subjects and an A symbol for Life Orientation.
- Aidan Akdogan, Jessie Conolly, Laura Staley and Lisa Verwey achieved Outstanding Achievement Awards for ranking within the top 5% in six or more Subjects and achieving an A symbol in Life Orientation.
- Somerset College students were also awarded no fewer than 24 Top 1% awards for featuring in the top percentile of their cohort nationally across a range of subjects.
In all our academic departments except one, the Somerset College average was higher than the national IEB average. Our students attained an average over 10% higher than the national IEB average in 8 subjects, including Accounting, Afrikaans, Geography, German SAL, Information Technology, Mathematics, Further Studies Mathematics and Visual Art.
We commend our 2023 cohort on the remarkable fortitude and resilience they have shown in navigating the Covid Pandemic and its aftermath, and many other challenges. Their success in their final examinations also bears testament to the highly professional, skilled and resilient teaching body who have continuously successfully navigated complexity, all the while supporting our colleagues and students and driving standards of excellence. The Student Develop Unit has also played a critical role in our student’s success, and we are grateful for their contribution. We thank and recognise our committed and active parent body whose support for their children and the school has been unwavering.
We thank the matrics of 2023 for the dignity with which they have carried themselves and for their remarkable contribution to the community during their time at Somerset College. We wish them well for the future.
Pass rate: A 100% Bachelor’s Degree (University Entrance) pass
Number of A symbols: 287
A Averages: 34 A averages from 89 candidates
Commendable Achievements: Helen Basson (Achieved within the top 5% in 5 subjects and achieved a rating level of 7 in Life Orientation)
Outstanding achievement Awards: Aidan Akdogan, Jessie Conolly, Laura Staley and Lisa Verwey
Top 1% Awards in specific IEB subjects: Lisa Verwey (FSM extended)
Somerset College is pleased to present the IEB Senior Certificate examination results for the Matric Class of 2023. Top Achievers were:
STUDENTS WITH 8 A SYMBOLS:
Aidan Akdogan
Helen Basson
Jessie Conolly
Sadie Geard
Ilke Keet
Mohamed Khalfey
Amber Mudge
Michael Shepstone
Lisa Verwey
STUDENTS WITH 7 A SYMBOLS:
Liam Davis
Neil Human
Laura Staley
STUDENTS WITH 6 A SYMBOLS:
Sam Chaplin
Gabriella Dames
Isobella Dolby
Ceri Gemmell
Chris Justus
Dirk Kidson
Kirsten Offen
Kate Stone
STUDENTS WITH 5 A SYMBOLS:
Jenna Brink
Lisė Herbst
Grace Jankowitz
Siobhan Kennedy
Nicole Liebenberg
Nicholas Rieth
Message from Jacques Nel, the Executive Head:
Dear Class of 2023,
Congratulations on your remarkable academic achievements! Your unwavering commitment to tasks, perseverance, and consistent, intentional efforts have truly paid off, resulting in outstanding results. Each one of you has demonstrated resilience and dedication, setting a commendable standard for excellence.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the devoted teachers who selflessly shared their knowledge and guidance, ensuring you were well-prepared for success. Their commitment to your education has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in your accomplishments.
A special word of appreciation goes to the parents who have been a constant pillar of support. Your unwavering encouragement and belief in the potential of the Class of 2023 have contributed significantly to their success. Your role in their journey is invaluable.
May the exceptional achievements of the Class of 2023 serve as inspiration for the entire school community. Let this be a reminder that with determination and hard work, excellence is not just a goal but an attainable reality.
As you step into the limitless possibilities of the future, Class of 2023, may your dreams be boundless, your endeavours be rewarding, and your journey be filled with the joy of constant discovery. Wishing you a future as bright and promising as the accomplishments you've achieved in 2023. Congratulations and best of luck on your remarkable journey ahead!
Yours in education
With a strong focus on academic excellence, our results speak for themselves, with a 100% pass record intact since the first Matrics of 1999, and an excellent rate of acceptance into university studies. Furthermore, our highest achieving students are regularly placed in the IEB examination’s national top 5 percent.