The Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa (ISASA) is the largest and oldest association of independent schools in the Southern African region. Representing a broad network of educational institutions, ISASA plays a vital role in the independent school sector across South Africa and beyond. Here’s everything you need to know about ISASA schools and the significance they hold in the country’s education landscape.

The History of ISASA

ISASA’s roots trace back to 1929 when the Conference of Headmasters and Headmistresses was formed. This organization evolved over time and merged with the Independent Schools Council, which was dissolved in 1999 to create ISASA as it is known today. This rich history gives ISASA a unique legacy of advocating for educational excellence and independence in Southern Africa.

ISASA’s Reach and Membership

Today, ISASA operates as a not-for-profit company and represents over 900 independent schools in multiple countries, including South Africa, Botswana, Eswatini, Namibia, Angola, Mozambique, Lesotho, Mauritius, and Zambia. Collectively, these schools educate over 210,000 learners. ISASA schools vary significantly in terms of educational philosophy, religious affiliation, and socio-economic accessibility, offering parents and students a wide array of options to choose from.

Independent Schools in South Africa: A Growing Sector

Since the end of apartheid and the dawn of democracy in South Africa, the independent school sector has undergone dramatic changes. In 1990, only about 550 independent schools were registered, and they were often perceived as “white, affluent, and exclusive.” Fast forward to 2022, and the landscape has transformed significantly. There are now at least 2,282 independent schools in South Africa, serving more than 735,000 learners. Of these, roughly 75% are black, with 60% identifying as Black African.

This demographic shift highlights the increasing accessibility of independent schools to a broader spectrum of the South African population, driven by the emergence of more affordable, high-quality educational options.

Types of ISASA Schools

The diversity within ISASA-affiliated schools is one of the organization’s key strengths. Here are some key points about the types of schools within the ISASA network:

• High-Fee vs. Low-Fee Schools: While traditional, high-fee independent schools remain a part of ISASA, they now constitute only about 20% of the association’s membership, with fees exceeding R80,000 per annum. Most ISASA schools are more affordable and cater to a wider range of socio-economic backgrounds.
• Non-Profit vs. For-Profit: Despite the growing presence of for-profit “chain schools” in South Africa, most ISASA schools are not-for-profit institutions. These schools often focus on holistic education and invest surplus funds back into school development and learner support.
• Diverse Educational Approaches: ISASA schools cater to various religious affiliations, philosophies, and teaching methodologies. Parents can find schools that specialize in Montessori, Waldorf, or faith-based education, among other approaches.

The Impact of ISASA Schools

The impact of ISASA on the education system cannot be overstated. By providing high-quality education to a diverse student population, ISASA schools have played a critical role in reducing educational inequality. These institutions emphasize academic excellence, holistic development, and inclusivity, preparing learners for the demands of the modern world.

Key People Behind ISASA

Leadership is crucial to the success of any organization, and ISASA is no exception. Lebogang Montjane currently serves as the Executive Director, overseeing the strategic direction of ISASA. Other key figures include Wayne Stuurman, Director of Membership and Programmes; Tshepo Motsepe, Director of Policy and Government Relations; and Laura Scarff, Director of Finance and Operations. Together, they work to uphold ISASA’s mission and values.

Why Choose an ISASA School?

Parents often opt for ISASA schools due to their high academic standards, diverse extracurricular programs, and commitment to student well-being. Whether you are seeking a faith-based education, a rigorous academic curriculum, or an environment that nurtures creativity, ISASA schools offer an option for almost every preference.