For those of us with children, one of the most important aspects of buying a property is the quality of schooling in the area.
Franschhoek schooling has interesting origins. In its early days of being a small village in the winelands, children were taught at private farm schools. In 1847 the reader of the church council F C M Voigt combined his church duties with those of teacher, conducting lessons in the chapel. In 1850 his school was declared official by the government. He had 64 pupils!
There are now seven schools in Franschhoek village and the surrounding area, the most exceptional of which is Bridge High School (from pre-primary through to high school).
Bridge House School
Bridge House is a well established and independent co-ed school for day scholars and boarders. It caters to 700 pupils from Playschool to Grade 12 and nurtures the spirit of the individual, fosters integrity, personal achievement, and inspiration.
It is committed to a ‘yes I can’ philosophy. In 2011 Bridge House launched its Fittest School Campaign. The goal, set for staff, pupils and parents, was to cover 640 000km, 16 times the circumference of the world! On March 10 2012 647 434 kms was reached.
Bridge House offers a safe environment in an exquisite country setting. It has a 100% pass rate to date. Classes are small and the dedicated teachers are well-qualified and highly motivated. The school provides a cultural programme, cutting-edge computer technology, and a variety of individual and team sports.
The school is a member of ISASA, the Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa.
Franschhoek Takes Youth Leadership Seriously
Franschoek takes the development of its youth very seriously. An annual award is granted for achievement, outstanding talent, leadership, good citizenship and for being a positive role model in the community, and even globally. The first award ceremony was held in 2007 during the Franschhoek Bastille Festival.
The winner and finalists spend the following year developing their leadership skills and getting exposure as role models by working with local organisations and networking at festivals and events in Franschoek.
This year’s winner was a grade 11 pupil from Bridge House College, who lists among his achievements climbing Kilimanjaro, raising funds for the Haiti disaster and travelling to Thailand to build water tanks in poor communities.
So if you have children, buying property in Franschhoek could give them unparalleled education and development opportunities.
Other schools in Franschoek and the surrounding areas are:
- Kabouterland Pre-primary school
- Groendal Primary School
- Langrug Primary School
- Wes Eind Primary School
- Franschhoek High School
- Groendal High School
The Next Steps in Buying A Property In Franschhoek
Many prospective buyers have never before been introduced to a property buyers consultant, let alone used one. Buyers agents are common in many other countries, though, because they are buyer focused and help source and secure your ideal property (usually with large discounts). And in 99% of cases they are free of charge.
SAHomeBuyers is a property buyers consultant. Of course, we help search and secure that ideal Franschhoek property, but we also put great emphasis on all the other considerations – both good and bad. Our only goal is to serve your interests and help you make the best informed decision.
Learn more about SAHomeBuyers and arrange to talk to one of our property consultants by e-mailing us here or telephoning + 27 (0) 83 265 8800.
