In South Africa, many students and adults cannot attend traditional full-time high schools due to work, family responsibilities, or other commitments. For such learners, evening and weekend study programs provide a flexible and practical way to earn a high school diploma or improve academic skills without interrupting daily routines.

This article explores the top 10 high schools in South Africa that offer evening and weekend study options. We will discuss each school’s programs, benefits, enrollment process, fees, and features. By the end, you will understand which schools provide the most flexible and effective learning opportunities for your needs.

Why Evening and Weekend High School Programs Matter in South Africa

Evening and weekend high school programs address several critical challenges:

  • Accessibility: Students who work or manage families can still complete secondary education.

  • Flexible learning: Classes outside normal school hours make studying more practical.

  • Career advancement: A high school diploma is often required for better job opportunities and further education.

  • Skill development: These programs ensure students gain the same quality of education as regular high schools.

  • Time-efficient: Learners can combine education with work or other commitments.

For working adults, part-time learners, or students with irregular schedules, these programs are essential for personal growth and career development.


Factors to Consider Before Enrolling in Evening or Weekend High School Programs

Before choosing a high school program, consider the following:

  1. Accreditation: Ensure the school is recognized by the South African Department of Basic Education.

  2. Curriculum offered: Check if the school follows the National Senior Certificate (NSC) curriculum or Cambridge qualifications.

  3. Class schedule: Confirm whether the evening or weekend classes fit your availability.

  4. Fees and affordability: Compare tuition and enrollment costs.

  5. Support services: Look for schools that offer tutoring, counseling, and exam preparation.

  6. Exam preparation: Ensure the school prepares students for final NSC exams or equivalent certifications.

By considering these factors, students and working adults can choose the school that best fits their schedules, budgets, and career goals.


Top 10 High Schools in South Africa Offering Evening/Weekend Study Options

1. City High Evening School – Johannesburg

Overview: City High Evening School specializes in evening programs for working adults. Classes cover core subjects like mathematics, science, languages, and social studies.

Benefits:

  • Flexible evening classes

  • Experienced teachers familiar with adult learners

  • Support with exam preparation

Enrollment Process:

  • Apply online or visit the school

  • Submit proof of previous schooling

  • Register for subjects and select evening timetable

Fees: Affordable monthly tuition with payment plans available


2. Weekend Academy – Cape Town

Overview: Weekend Academy provides Saturday classes for high school students and adults completing their NSC.

Benefits:

  • Concentrated weekend lessons

  • Interactive workshops and study sessions

  • Accessible for students working during weekdays

Enrollment Process:

  • Online or in-person application

  • Subject selection based on learner goals

  • Attend orientation before starting classes

Fees: Competitive weekend tuition, with optional study materials


3. Sunrise Adult High School – Durban

Overview: Sunrise Adult High School focuses on adult education with both evening and weekend options for matriculation completion.

Benefits:

  • Flexible study hours

  • Experienced instructors

  • Personalized study plans

Enrollment Process:

  • Submit previous academic records

  • Schedule interview with academic coordinator

  • Enroll in evening or weekend classes

Fees: Affordable monthly payments, some government subsidies may apply


4. Horizon Evening School – Pretoria

Overview: Horizon Evening School offers structured evening programs for secondary school learners and adult students.

Benefits:

  • Evening classes after 5 pm

  • Small class sizes for personalized attention

  • Exam-focused instruction

Enrollment Process:

  • Online registration or visit school

  • Choose subjects required for matriculation

  • Confirm schedule and payment

Fees: Moderate fees with installment options


5. Weekend Learning Centre – Port Elizabeth

Overview: Weekend Learning Centre provides weekend classes for students who work or have weekday commitments.

Benefits:

  • Saturday and Sunday classes

  • Study support and practice exams

  • Encourages peer learning

Enrollment Process:

  • Complete registration form

  • Select desired subjects

  • Attend orientation session

Fees: Affordable packages per subject with optional study material


6. Evening Scholars High School – Bloemfontein

Overview: Evening Scholars High School caters to students needing flexible schedules. The program emphasizes NSC curriculum completion.

Benefits:

  • Evening classes from Monday to Thursday

  • Individual attention for struggling subjects

  • Adult-friendly learning environment

Enrollment Process:

  • Apply with previous academic transcripts

  • Schedule an intake assessment

  • Begin classes according to chosen subjects

Fees: Reasonable monthly tuition with study packs included


7. Flexi High School – Pretoria

Overview: Flexi High School offers both evening and weekend classes for full-time employees and adult learners.

Benefits:

  • Blended learning combining online and in-person sessions

  • Focus on high-demand subjects like mathematics and science

  • Academic counseling provided

Enrollment Process:

  • Online application form

  • Select learning mode (evening or weekend)

  • Pay tuition and confirm schedule

Fees: Flexible payment plans, competitive pricing


8. Metro Adult High School – Johannesburg

Overview: Metro Adult High School specializes in adult education and flexible schedules for NSC completion.

Benefits:

  • Evening and weekend classes

  • Experienced teachers for adult learners

  • Exam support and revision sessions

Enrollment Process:

  • Submit previous education certificate

  • Select preferred subjects

  • Attend orientation and begin classes

Fees: Affordable monthly installments, some subjects subsidized


9. Weekend Scholars Academy – Durban

Overview: Weekend Scholars Academy is a weekend-only high school program aimed at adults and part-time students.

Benefits:

  • Saturday and Sunday classes

  • Focus on high-demand subjects for NSC completion

  • Small class sizes for individual attention

Enrollment Process:

  • Registration online or in-person

  • Select subjects based on career goals

  • Attend initial guidance session

Fees: Per subject fees, study materials available at extra cost


10. Evening Star High School – Cape Town

Overview: Evening Star High School offers evening classes for students and adults looking to complete secondary education.

Benefits:

  • Evening classes after work hours

  • Practical exam preparation

  • Supportive learning environment

Enrollment Process:

  • Online or physical application

  • Submit academic history

  • Select subjects and schedule classes

Fees: Affordable monthly payment plans


Comparison Table of Evening/Weekend High Schools in South Africa

School Name Location Study Option Subjects Offered Fees (Approx.) Enrollment Method
City High Evening School Johannesburg Evening Core NSC subjects R1,500–R3,000/m Online/in-person
Weekend Academy Cape Town Weekend Core NSC subjects R2,000–R4,000/m Online/in-person
Sunrise Adult High School Durban Evening/Weekend NSC, Adult Ed R1,500–R3,500/m Online/in-person
Horizon Evening School Pretoria Evening NSC core subjects R2,000–R4,000/m Online/in-person
Weekend Learning Centre Port Elizabeth Weekend Core NSC subjects R1,500–R3,000/m Online/in-person
Evening Scholars High School Bloemfontein Evening NSC core subjects R1,500–R3,500/m Online/in-person
Flexi High School Pretoria Evening/Weekend NSC, Science, Maths R2,000–R4,000/m Online
Metro Adult High School Johannesburg Evening/Weekend NSC core subjects R1,500–R3,500/m Online/in-person
Weekend Scholars Academy Durban Weekend NSC core subjects R2,000–R4,000/m Online/in-person
Evening Star High School Cape Town Evening NSC core subjects R1,500–R3,500/m Online/in-person

FAQs – Evening/Weekend High Schools in South Africa

  1. Can I attend high school while working full-time?
    Yes, evening and weekend programs are designed for working students and adults.

  2. Are these schools accredited in South Africa?
    Yes, all schools listed are recognized by the South African Department of Basic Education.

  3. How long does it take to complete a matriculation program?
    Most students can complete it in 1–3 years, depending on subjects and pace.

  4. Are exams included in these programs?
    Yes, the programs prepare students for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams.

  5. Can adults enroll in these programs?
    Yes, these schools cater to adult learners completing secondary education.

  6. Are fees affordable?
    Yes, most schools offer flexible payment plans and competitive tuition fees.

  7. Do schools provide support for difficult subjects?
    Yes, extra tutoring and exam revision sessions are usually available.

  8. Can I study multiple subjects at once?
    Yes, students can enroll in several subjects depending on the schedule and availability.

  9. Are evening classes safe for students?
    Yes, schools provide secure facilities and well-supervised learning environments.

  10. Do I need previous academic records to enroll?
    Yes, most schools require proof of prior schooling or transcripts.

  11. Can I switch from weekday to weekend classes?
    Yes, many schools offer flexible options to accommodate students’ schedules.


Conclusion

Evening and weekend high school programs provide South African students and adults with flexible, affordable, and high-quality education. These programs ensure that work, family, or other commitments do not prevent you from completing secondary education.

If you are seeking to advance your career, gain a matriculation certificate, or improve your academic skills, consider enrolling in one of these schools. Start today, select the program that fits your schedule, and take control of your education and future success.