Academics at Brebner High School
Academic Excellence Through Dedication
At Brebner High School, we believe that a rigorous and comprehensive academic program is the cornerstone of lifelong achievement. Our curriculum is implemented not just to meet the requirements of matriculation, but to propel our learners confidently into tertiary education, the modern workforce, and beyond. This commitment to academic excellence is driven by our exceptional teaching staff. Boasting a robust team of 78 dedicated teaching professionals—comprising 60 government-appointed educators and 18 specialized School Governing Body (SGB) appointees—we are uniquely positioned to offer dedicated instruction. By actively investing in our teaching staff, we ensure optimal learner-to-teacher ratios, allowing us to provide the targeted support and mentorship every learner needs to unlock their full potential and thrive in a dynamic world.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Our Track Record of Success
2025 Matric Results – Excellence Achieved
PASS RATE
Achieved Bachelor’s degree passes – qualifying for university degree programs
Achieved Diploma passes – eligible for diploma and certificate programs
Out of a class of 391 matriculants qualified to study at tertiary institutions
Of our matriculants are eligible for further education and training
These results demonstrate that Brebner High School successfully prepares the vast majority of our learners for further studies. Our comprehensive academic program, dedicated teachers, and supportive learning environment work together to help learners achieve their career aspirations.
What These Results Mean
- Bachelor’s Pass: Qualifies learners for admission to degree programs at tertiary level, providing the broadest range of study options and career pathways.
- Diploma Pass: Enables students to pursue diploma and certificate programs at universities of technology, TVET colleges, and other tertiary institutions, leading to valuable career qualifications.
These pass rates reflect not just academic achievement, but the dedication of our teachers, the hard work of our learners, and the partnership between school and home that makes success possible.
Comprehensive Education from Grade 8 to Matric
Brebner High School offers a well-rounded curriculum aligned with the National Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS). Our academic program is structured to provide scholars with a strong foundation in core subjects while allowing for specialization in areas aligned with their interests and career goals.
“The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.”
Your Journey Through Brebner High School
Five-Year Pathway to Success
Grade 8: The Foundation Year
Adjusting to high school expectations. Establishing study habits and work ethic. Building core competencies in all subjects.
Grade 9: Preparation Year
Meeting stricter pass requirements. Exploring interests and strengths. Making informed subject choices for FET phase.
Grade 10: Transition to FET
Beginning specialized subject study. Developing depth in chosen fields. Building toward matric standards.
Grade 11: Consolidation Year
Mastering subject content. Developing examination techniques. Preparing for final year demands.
Grade 12: Matric Year
Final preparation for National Senior. Certificate examinations. University applications and career planning. Matric Farewell celebration.
Our Curriculum
Comprehensive Education from Grade 8 to Matric
Grade 8 and 9 Subjects (General Education and Training – GET Phase/Senior Phase)
In Grade 8 and 9, all learners follow a common curriculum designed to provide a broad educational foundation across all key learning areas. This phase prepares students for the important subject choices they will make in Grade 10.
Subjects offered in Grades 8 and 9:
- English Home Language – The medium of instruction and a critical skill for all subjects
- Afrikaans or Sesotho – First Additional Language
- Mathematics – Building numerical literacy and problem-solving skills
- Natural Sciences (NS) – Exploring the physical and life sciences
- Social Sciences (SS) – History and Geography combined
- Life Orientation (LO) – Personal development, health, and life skills
- Technology – Design, problem-solving, and practical skills
- Creative Arts (CA) – Artistic expression and cultural appreciation
- Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) – Introduction to business and economics
Focus Areas for Grade 8 and 9
These foundational years are crucial for developing good study habits, mastering core competencies, and preparing for the demands of the FET (Further Education and Training) phase. We emphasize:
- Establishing consistent study patterns and work ethic
- Developing strong English language and communication skills
- Building mathematical proficiency and scientific literacy
- Learning to complete School-Based Assessment (SBA) work to a high standard
- Time management and organizational skills
- Critical thinking and independent learning
The Grade 8 Year – Building Foundations
Grade 8 is a crucial transition year where learners must adjust to the demands of high school while establishing the habits that will carry them through to matric. Grade 8 pass requirements are designed to be achievable while still maintaining academic standards and giving learners room to adjust to high school expectations while building confidence.
“It is better to debate a question without settling it than to settle a question without debating it.”
The Grade 9 Year – Preparing for FET
Grade 9 represents a significant step up in academic rigor. Academic content begins moving toward FET (Further Education and Training) standards, to ensure students are ready for Grades 10-12.
Grade 9 Pass Requirements
- English Home Language: Minimum 50% (compulsory requirement)
- Mathematics: Minimum 40%
- Afrikaans or Sesotho (First Additional Language): Minimum 40%
- Three other subjects: Minimum 40% each
- Two other subjects: Minimum 30% each
- Only ONE subject may be below 30%
The pass requirements in Grade 9 ensure that learners are adequately prepared for the challenges of the FET phase and ultimately for matric examinations.
Subject Choices for Grades 10-12 (FET Phase)
Shaping Your Future Through Subject Selection
At the end of Grade 9, learners make one of the most important academic decisions of their school careers: choosing the subjects they will study in Grades 10, 11, and 12. These choices have significant implications for tertiary education options and career pathways, so we guide students and parents carefully through this process.
Subject Selection Structure
All learners must select SEVEN subjects according to the following structure:
COMPULSORY SUBJECTS
(all learners must take these):
English Home Language
Brebner offers only English Home Language, as it is our language of learning and teaching (LoLT). (See Language Policy)
Life Orientation
Personal development, health, physical education, and life skills.
ELECTIVE SUBJECTS
Learners must choose FIVE additional subjects from the following combinations (one per combination):
Combination 1 Options:
Afrikaans First Additional Language
OR
Sesotho First Additional Language
Combination 2 Options:
Mathematics – Required for most STEM degrees, commerce degrees, and many other university programs
OR
Mathematical Literacy – Focuses on practical mathematics for everyday life and certain career paths
Combination 3 Options:
Life Sciences – Essential for medical, veterinary, and biological science careers
OR
Economics – For commerce, business, and economic-related studies
OR
Geography – Physical and human geography, environmental studies
OR
Tourism – Hospitality, travel industry, and tourism management
Combination 1 Options:
Physical Sciences – Physics and Chemistry, required for most STEM degrees, scientific and medical fields (may only be taken with Mathematics)
OR
Business Studies – For commerce, business and enrepreneurial related studies and careers
Combination 1 Options:
Accounting – Essential for accounting, auditing, financial management careers
OR
Geography – Physical and human geography, environmental studies
OR
Consumer Studies – Food, nutrition, textiles, hospitality
OR
CAT (Computer Applications Technology) – Practical computer skills, software applications
Please Note: Subject combinations may change depending on the needs and resources of the school and learners. The school will do its best to accommodate student choices, but some combinations may not be available if there is insufficient demand or teaching capacity.
Choosing Wisely
Subject choices should be guided by several factors:
• Career aspirations and intended tertiary studies
• Academic strengths and genuine interests
• University admission requirements for desired programs
• Realistic assessment of abilities (especially regarding Mathematics vs. Mathematical Literacy)
• Balanced combination that keeps multiple career pathways open
Our teachers and guidance counselors work closely with Grade 9 students and their parents to ensure informed subject choices that align with each learner’s abilities, interests, and goals. We provide information sessions, individual consultations, and detailed guidance on university admission requirements for various fields of study.
“The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.”
The Parent-School Partnership
Working Together for Student Success
Brebner High School firmly believes that parents and teachers are a team, sharing co-responsibility for learners’ academic progress and personal development. When home and school work together, students achieve their full potential.
Encourage and Monitor
- Show interest in your child’s daily school experience
- Review completed homework and assignments regularly
- Monitor academic progress through reports and assessments
- Celebrate successes and address challenges promptly
- Set high but realistic expectations
- Provide necessary resources (textbooks, stationery, internet access)
Talk, Discuss, Debate, Share
- Engage in conversations about what your child is learning
- Discuss current events and their connections to school subjects
- Encourage your child to explain concepts they’re learning
- Share your own educational and work experiences
- Ask open-ended questions that promote critical thinking
- Listen actively to your child’s academic concerns and frustrations
Communication with the School
- Teachers may not be interrupted during school hours (they are teaching)
- There is NO specific class teacher or register teacher for each grade
- Contact allocated SMT members if there are problems
- Mark discussions are held on specific evenings to accommodate all parents
- If your child phones with a problem, contact the school FIRST before rushing to campus
- Make appointments for in-person discussions rather than arriving unannounced
- Give teachers the opportunity to address concerns before escalating issues
We understand that problems will arise – this is normal in education. However, we ask that parents contact the school first and work collaboratively with us to find solutions. Most issues can be resolved quickly through calm, professional communication.
“It takes a village to raise a child.”
Academic Support and Resources
Supporting Student Success. Brebner High School is committed to helping every learner reach their academic potential. Beyond classroom instruction, we provide various forms of support and resources
School-Based Support
- Subject teachers available for consultation during designated times
- Progress monitoring through regular assessments and reports
- Intervention strategies for struggling learners
- Parent-teacher consultation evenings for each grade
- Academic counseling and subject choice guidance
- Study skills workshops and time management training
- Library and information center resources
- Computer center with internet access for research
External Support Recommendations
For subjects like Mathematics and Physical Sciences, where many learners struggle, we strongly recommend additional external support:
- Private tutoring in challenging subjects
- Online learning platforms and video tutorials
- Study groups with academically strong peers
- Holiday school programs for intensive review
- Subject-specific workshops and crash courses
School Fees and Academic Investment
Brebner High School is a fee-paying school. School fees are invested directly in learners’ academics and well-being, funding:
- SGB-paid educators (23 additional teachers beyond government allocation)
- Learning materials, textbooks, and resources
- Laboratory equipment and science resources
- Computer equipment and technology infrastructure
- Library books and information resources
- Facility maintenance and improvements
- Extracurricular programs and activities
This additional investment allows us to maintain smaller class sizes, offer more subject choices, and provide better resources than would be possible on government funding alone.
Please remember to contact the school during school hours (8:00 AM – 3:00 PM) and make appointments for in-person meetings rather than arriving unannounced. This ensures that staff members can give your concerns the full attention they deserve.
“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.”
What makes Brebner Different?
Our Progressive Spirit
Throughout our history, Brebner High School has maintained a progressive and “open heart” approach. We have always been an alternative choice for English-speaking scholars in Bloemfontein, irrespective of their culture, religion, or political affiliations.
Our school has given many scholars who were not academically strong the opportunity to achieve their goals. Many of our alumni, who are now successful professionals around the world, would not have achieved what they have today without the supportive and inclusive environment that Brebner provided.
In the same progressive spirit, our school is now open to all scholars of any culture, race, and political affiliations who want to be educated through the medium of English. We continue to meet the challenges of the modern era while maintaining the values and ethos that have made Brebner special for over a century.