WELCOME TO THE
SENIOR SCHOOL
UNLOCKING POTENTIAL, SHAPING FUTURES
Somerset College was founded in 1997. It is an independent, English-speaking, co-educational high school located in the beautiful Western Cape Winelands.
Our Senior School offers a dynamic and challenging academic environment. We nurture individual growth and prepare students for future success. We focus on holistic education. We encourage students to excel in academics, sports, arts and leadership. This fosters confident, well-rounded young adults ready to make a meaningful impact.
A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE HEAD
Welcome to Somerset College Senior School. We prepare students to excel in an ever-changing world. We emphasise both the IEB and Cambridge pathways. Our rigorous academic program is designed to challenge and inspire.
Education here is about more than just knowledge. It is about building character, fostering leadership and nurturing talents. Our dedicated teachers, modern facilities and vibrant extra-curricular opportunities provide the ideal environment. Students can explore their passions and unlock their full potential.
At Somerset College, we celebrate individuality, instill strong values and embrace innovation. This is where young people gain the confidence and purpose needed for the future.
Welcome to Somerset College Senior School – shaping extraordinary futures!
Jacques Nel
Head of the Senior School
FOSTERING ACADEMIC SUCCESS AND LIFELONG LEARNING
Somerset College offers academic excellence. Our excellent Grade 12 National Senior Certificate results through the IEB prove this. We strive to be a truly academic educational establishment. The classroom relationship between student and teacher is paramount to our approach.
Our system promotes each individual reaching their full capacity. We foster an independent work ethic and critical thinking. This empowers students to handle their tertiary education and beyond.
GRADE 8 & 9 SUBJECTS
Eight Compulsory Subjects: English Home Language | Mathematics | Physical Sciences | Life Sciences | Geography | History | Economic and Management Sciences | ESTEAM
Four Choice Subjects: Afrikaans First Additional Language OR IsiXhosa First Additional Language | French Second Additional Language OR German Second Additional Language | Two of the following: Visual Arts, Dramatic Arts and Music
GRADE 10 TO 12 SUBJECTS
Four Compulsory Subjects: English Home Language | Life Orientation | Afrikaans First Additional Language OR IsiXhosa First Additional Language | Mathematics Core OR Mathematical Literacy
Three Choice Subjects: Accounting | Business Studies | Consumer Studies | Design | Dramatic Arts | French Second Additional Language | Further Studies Mathematics | Geography | German Second Additional Language | History | Information Technology | Life Sciences | Music | Physical Sciences | Visual Art
RESULTS
The Class of 2024 has set a remarkable standard, achieving an average of 4.2 A symbols per student. Over the past eight years, the school has maintained an impressive average of at least 3 A symbols per student. We are also delighted to uphold our unbroken record of a 100% Bachelor’s Degree pass rate, ensuring all our students have access to university opportunities.
EXCHANGE PROGRAMME
We proudly offer international academic programmes and exchanges. This creates a valuable South African and global experience. In recent years, we have partnered with schools in Canada, Australia, Germany and England. Students can also set up private exchanges.
- Application: All Grade 10 learners can apply at the start of the year.
- Hosting: We welcome students from partner schools for four to six weeks during Term 3 (Grade 10) or Term 1 (Grade 11). They stay with a Somerset College family or in the Boarding House.
- Travel: Our students travel to their international partners near the end of the fourth term.
The exchange programme broadens horizons and develops global perspectives, cultural awareness and adaptability. These are vital skills in today’s interconnected world.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
We believe in the holistic development that happens outside the classroom.
Sport: Our Sports programme offers a wide range of activities. It promotes physical fitness, teamwork and sportsmanship. Students are encouraged to discover their athletic potential on the field, court or in the pool.
Arts and Culture: We nurture creativity and expression through music, drama, visual arts and cultural clubs. These activities allow students to explore artistic talents, build confidence and engage with our vibrant cultural community.
SUMMER SPORTS
Cricket | Rowing | Tennis | Water Polo | Chess | Golf
WINTER SPORTS
Rugby | Hockey | Netball | Squash | Football (players must commit to another sport to qualify to play for the football team) | Chess | Golf
MUSIC
Quarterly Concerts | Lunch Hour Concerts | Community Concerts | Pops Concert | Annual Music Tour | Major School Functions , Chapel Services, Assemblies | Opus Campus Composition Competition
DRAMA
Annual Drama Production | Inter-House Play Competition - Artz Daze
STUDENT LEADERSHIP
We are committed to developing innovative and dynamic leaders. Our student leadership system is respected and progressive. It uses democratic election, skills-based selection, collaboration and mentorship.
PREFECTS
Prefects are elected student ambassadors. They uphold school values and lead with integrity. They contribute to creating meaningful opportunities across all grades.
COMMITTEES
We run a diverse range of committees. These offer students further opportunities to contribute and hone their leadership skills.
DEVELOPMENT
This award has been running at Somerset College since 2010 (and in South Africa since 1983). It consists of Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels. To complete each level, participants must complete:
- A sport.
- Learn a skill.
- Perform community service.
- Complete an outdoor journey.
The Award provides students with a structure to grow personally and collectively.
OUTDOOR EDUCATION
Our program immerses students in diverse outdoor experiences. It fosters resilience and a love for nature. We equip students with essential skills to confidently face challenges outdoors. This encourages personal growth, teamwork and a deep appreciation for the natural environment.
DAY-TO-DAY LIFE AND ACADEMIC STRUCTURE
A well-structured day and supportive systems are key to student success. Our school day balances academics, extra-curricular activities and personal growth.
SCHOOL DAY TIMES
The Senior school day starts at 07:30 am.
See the table below for closing times.
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | |
| Grade 8-12 | 15:15 | 15:15 | 15:15 | 15:15 | 13:30 |
HOUSE, GRADE AND TUTOR SYSTEM
House, Grade, and Tutor System: All students belong to a House: Avontuur (Green), Cloetenberg (Blue), or Vredelus (Red). Students participate in inter-house events like sports days and plays.
Tutor Groups: Each student is placed in a small tutor group (10 to 18 students). A dedicated tutor/mentor looks after their group as they move up the grades. Grade Heads lead the tutors, overseeing administration and assisting with discipline.
JOINING SOMERSET COLLEGE
Interested in joining the Somerset College community? For detailed information on our admissions process and to view our current school fees, please navigate to our Admissions page.
PRE-PREPARATORY
Our Pre-Preparatory School offers a nurturing environment for our youngest learners, laying the foundation for their educational journey.
PREPARATORY
Explore how we nurture academic growth, creativity, and independence in the next phase of your child’s journey.
CAMBRIDGE
As students progress through their educational journey, our Senior School continues to challenge and inspire them.