Frequently Asked Questions
The Cambridge curriculum is internationally benchmarked and known for its academic depth. It places a strong emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and applying knowledge, particularly at the IGCSE and A Level stages. While other curricula, such as CAPS, cover a broad range of content, the Cambridge approach focuses more on deep understanding rather than memorisation. That said, the level of challenge can vary depending on a student’s learning style and the support they receive.
The Cambridge Curriculum equips school leavers with strong academic foundations and transferable skills that are valued by universities and employers worldwide. Its emphasis on critical thinking, independent learning, research skills, and clear communication prepares students well for the demands of higher education. For those entering the workforce, the curriculum fosters problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and confidence in applying knowledge to real-world situations. International recognition of Cambridge qualifications also broadens opportunities, enabling students to pursue further study or employment both locally and globally.
A study visa (Temporary Residence Visa – Study Visa, typically BI-1738) is required if you plan to study in South Africa in person as an international student at a recognised educational institution and you are not a South African citizen or permanent resident. This applies when you will be physically present in South Africa for your course, including full-time academic programmes.
📌 Key points on when you need one:
- If you are going to South Africa to attend classes at an accredited institution, you must apply for a study visa before travel or enrolment.
- A study visa is specific to the institution and course listed on your visa — you can’t use it to study at a different school without a change of conditions.
- Distance or online study from your home country only generally does not require a South African study visa as long as you are not entering South Africa to attend classes. (South African schools typically require visas only for physical attendance.)
When You Might Not Need a Study Visa
There are a few exceptions (depending on your status and how often you’re in South Africa):
- Short visits for occasional meetings or research (3 months or less) — If you simply visit South Africa occasionally and do not register for full-time study, you might enter on a visitor’s visa instead of a study visa, depending on your nationality and duration of stay. (For detailed rules check the Department of Home Affairs policy or VFS site.)
- Refugees or asylum seekers, diplomatic immunity with valid permits — In some cases, registered refugees/asylum seekers already permitted to live in South Africa may not need a separate study visa, but they must check with the Department of Home Affairs to confirm.
Where and When to Apply
- Before arriving in South Africa: Most students must apply at a South African Embassy, High Commission, Consulate, or VFS Visa Application Centre (VFS Global) in their home country or country of residence.
- If you’re in South Africa already with a different visa and need to change status: You may need to apply for a change of conditions through VFS/Home Affairs before your current visa expires.
Important Reminders
- A study visa must be secured before you can register at a South African school if you will study on campus.
- The VFS Global site outlines the process — you select the study visa category when applying and then schedule an appointment at a VFS centre to submit your documents. The school issues visa support letters only once enrolment has been completed.
If you want, I can also list the standard documents required to apply for a South African study visa through VFS.
Blouberg International School delivers a strong language programme alongside its core English curriculum, helping students develop both local and global communication skills.
Languages offered:
• English – the primary language of instruction across all year levels.
• Afrikaans – offered from early years and through primary and secondary language programmes. (Elective subject from Year 7)
• German – introduced at primary level as a foreign language and developed through structured lessons. (Elective subject from Year 4 and Year 7)
• Spanish – also offered from primary level, with lessons that build listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. (Elective subject from Year 4 and Year 7)
In Year 1, students are introduced to Spanish, German and Afrikaans as foreign additional languages through fun, interactive lessons. From Year 4, as students begin their Senior Primary journey, they continue with Afrikaans and choose either German or Spanish as an additional language. At the end of Year 6, students select one language—German, Spanish or Afrikaans—to continue into High School.
Benefits of learning additional languages:
• Enhanced cognitive and academic skills: Learning additional languages has been shown to improve areas such as reading comprehension, vocabulary and even mathematical thinking.
• Cultural awareness and global readiness: Studying languages like German and Spanish helps students appreciate different cultures and prepares them for international opportunities in study and work.
• Stronger communication abilities: Multilingual students often develop better listening, speaking and interpersonal communication skills, which benefit them academically and professionally.
• Local engagement: Afrikaans supports understanding of local South African communities and better integration into the broader cultural context.
In Year 9, students begin their Cambridge IGCSE programme. English and Mathematics are compulsory, and students select five additional subjects, allowing them to study a broad range of disciplines. This subject combination builds a strong academic foundation and prepares students for the Cambridge IGCSE examinations, which are written at the end of Year 10.
In Year 11, students move into a more focused phase of study and typically select five AS Level subjects, depending on their individual abilities, interests, and future study plans. This structure allows students to specialise while still maintaining a balanced curriculum. Students write their AS Level examinations at the end of Year 12. Students who wish to continue to the optional A Levels consult directly with the Cambridge Officer to finalise their subject selections.
Subject choices are carefully guided to ensure students meet university entrance and career requirements, with academic counselling provided to support informed decision-making.
To enquire as an external examinations candidate, please email julian.harrison@iesmail.com
In most cases, students do not need to take all three sciences to be admitted to university. University entrance requirements depend on the chosen field of study and the specific institution. Many degree programmes require one or two sciences rather than all three. For example, Engineering programmes typically require Physics and Mathematics, while Medicine and Health Sciences often require Biology and Chemistry. Students who are unsure of their future career path may choose more than one science to keep their options open. It is always recommended to check the specific entry requirements of the universities and courses your child is interested in.
Taking optional Cambridge International A Level subjects offers several advantages for students preparing for further study and future careers:
- Tailored Subject Choice and Flexibility
Cambridge offers a wide range of subject options (over 55 at AS & A Level), and schools can offer them in almost any combination. Students can specialise in areas they enjoy or pursue a broad mix of subjects to suit their interests and academic strengths.
- In-depth Knowledge and Higher-Order Skills
The A Level syllabuses are designed to develop deep subject knowledge, independent thinking, and the ability to apply understanding to new situations—skills that universities and employers value highly.
- Preparation for University Study Worldwide
Cambridge A Level qualifications are recognised by universities around the world and help open global pathways to higher education. Many students use A Level results to gain entry to competitive programmes internationally.
- Supports Academic and Career Pathways
Because students can choose subjects aligned with their future goals—whether sciences, humanities, languages, or creative disciplines—they can build a foundation that strengthens their readiness for specific university courses or career fields.
- Recognition and Optional University Credit
In some countries (e.g., the United States and Canada), good A Level results can even translate into university credit, potentially reducing the time or cost of an undergraduate degree.
Our school does not offer boarding facilities.
Yes, many of our students make use of local private transportation services and High School students often use the MyCiti bus services, with a safe bus stop nestled up against the school border.
You are welcome to contact us via email, phone, or our website enquiry form.
For applications complete the online application form.
We look forward to supporting your family and welcoming you to our community.
