Merchiston Preparatory School, established in 1892, caters for Day Boys from Grades RR to 7 and accommodates Boarders from Grades 3 to 7. Merchiston is steeped in tradition and embraces all the good that the past offered and also seeks to be a forerunner in what the future holds..
Built on four pillars: Academic, Sport, Culture and Character-Building, Merchiston has established itself as one of the leading boy specialist institutions in South Africa. It is one of 15 single-sex state schools in South Africa and is widely known for its sporting prowess and for the many top class Provincial and National sportsmen it has produced and continues to nurture.
Merchiston caters fully to the needs of boys, and serves to enrich their lives in a very real and meaningful way. The essence of the Merchiston ethos is a value system that will not be compromised in any way. Values such as honesty, integrity, loyalty, commitment and self-discipline are closely guarded as we believe these values are the building blocks of every child's life. With 720 boys, Merchiston Preparatory School prides itself in its reputation and has contributed much to the educational legacy both of the province and South Africa.
Message from the Headmaster
Dear Merchiston Family and friends,
The staff and I at Merchiston are committed to excellence. It is our desire to create a safe and stimulating environment where our boys are challenged to achieve their personal best and where their achievements are rewarded.
The School has a wonderful heritage and is built on strong Christian foundations which provide us with a framework of values for life.
A school’s success is measured by the calibre of boy living and working within. I have no doubt our boys make it the fine school that it is. They respond positively to the many exciting challenges that our academic, cultural, sporting and social programmes present them. It is heartening to see their enthusiasm and genuine love of their school. We are proud of their commitment and loyalty to their school.
The staff and parents supply the support and care that our boys need in order to achieve and ensure Merchiston remains a much sought after educational institution. The Merchiston Family is one of vision, hard work, care and commitment. At the forefront of our planning and drive, is the interest of our boys. Merchiston is constantly looking for ways for our boys to be encouraged to reach their potential and thus, future planning revolves around them and their well-being.
At the helm of Merchiston’s drive, are the staff. These folk give so much of themselves in ensuring that all targets are met and our boys are educated and extended. Merchiston is a very big school with so many intricate mechanisms, yet every member of staff knows exactly what is required to ensure the success of the year. I am indeed very grateful to my staff, academic, sporting, administrative, boarding, grounds, aftercare and all auxiliary services, for their commitment, passion and loyalty. They are the caretakers of our school and service our ethos with integrity.
For our institution to remain at the forefront of education, it is important that we constantly seek to enhance and upgrade our facilities. To this end, Merchiston is committed to many projects that will ensure that our boys continue to receive top class education.
Sincere gratitude is extended to all or family members for their valuable support and commitment.
I trust you will enjoy browsing the website and find the pages interesting.
Dave Beetar
Headmaster
