Hilton College
Founded 1872
Updated July 2026
IGCSE
Hilton College is an independent, boys-only boarding school in South Africa that offers a unique educational experience set within its own 1,600-hectare estate and nature reserve. It combines over 150 years of tradition with a contemporary approach to education, preparing students for global university opportunities.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
Hilton College aims to develop young men of character and integrity by fostering a growth mindset and a lifelong love of learning. The school emphasizes an inclusive community that values diversity, self-discovery, and the development of a broad worldview. It seeks to challenge students through a blend of experiences that reveal their individual strengths and encourage them to contribute positively to the world.
Programmes
The school offers two academic pathways: the South African IEB curriculum and the British GCE curriculum (Cambridge and Pearson), which includes iGCSE and A-Levels. The curriculum is supported by a cross-curricular approach in Grades 8 and 9, which includes an elective programme featuring subjects like drone coding, greenhouse design, and introductory languages. Additionally, the school provides a structured Futures Department to guide students through university applications and enrichment opportunities.
Student support
Learning support
A world-class Student Support Centre provides specialized assistance for boys with learning barriers. This department is dedicated to ensuring that every student is equipped to reach his full potential through exceptional support services.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Hilton College offer?
- Hilton College offers IGCSE and Cambridge A-Level.
- How much is tuition at Hilton College?
- Annual tuition at Hilton College is ZAR 441.8K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- Is Hilton College a day or boarding school?
- Hilton College is a boarding school.
- Is Hilton College co-educational?
- Hilton College is a boys school.
- Where is Hilton College located?
- Hilton College is an international school in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 8 - 12 | 13–18 | ZAR 441.8K |
Other fees(4)
| Enrolment fee· Non-refundable entrance fee payable on acceptance, equivalent to one term's fees at the current rate. | ZAR 110.4K |
|---|---|
| Deposit· Foreign Pupil's Deposit of one and a half term's fees, required for families living outside of South Africa (refundable). | ZAR 165.7K |
| Materialsper term· Consolidated fee for extras (covers some dry cleaning, laundry bags, minor duplicating, newspapers, minor sanatorium requisites, sunscreen, certain school plays and socials). | ZAR 594.3 |
| Insurance· Compulsory accident insurance. Annual medical expense limit is R120,000; permanent disablement cover up to R750,000. | — |
Discounts
- Full-payment discount: Varies
Admissions
The enrolment process begins with online registration, which can be completed from a boy's birth up to the start of his Grade 6 year. The 18-month process includes family meetings, personal or group tours, and specific events such as the Grade 6 discovery weekend, a merit award assessment weekend, and a new boys' weekend. Offers of place are typically extended in February for sons of Old Hiltonians and brothers of current students, followed by general offers and merit awards in April.
Calendar
The school operates on a term-based system with key enrolment events scheduled throughout the year. Notable dates include Welcome Days on 1 August and 10 October 2026, a Grade 6 discovery weekend on 29–30 August 2026, and a new boys' weekend on 13–14 March 2027. Fees are payable annually or monthly for local residents, while foreign resident parents are required to settle fees annually or termly in advance.
Facilities
About the campus
The school is situated on a 1,600-hectare estate that includes a 650-hectare proclaimed nature reserve, home to diverse wildlife such as giraffe, zebra, and wildebeest, as well as 300 bird species. Campus facilities include a world-class performance and wellness centre, a state-of-the-art music centre, a sanatorium, and multiple boarding houses. The grounds feature natural landmarks like the four Gwens waterfalls, which are used for student exploration and outdoor activities.
- George HarrisHeadmaster
George Harris has a diverse educational background, having taught in townships and private schools, and served as the founding principal of Lebone II College and CEO of the Royal Bafokeng Institute. He joined Hilton College in 2017 and holds qualifications from Wits, with additional studies at Harvard and Columbia University.
Kgomotso MotlogeloaDeputy HeadmasterKgomotso Motlogeloa was educated at Parktown Boys’ High School and Wits University, and holds a PGDip from the University of Cape Town. Before joining Hilton College in 2020, he spent 15 years at Jeppe High School for Boys in various leadership roles and served as Senior Deputy Headmaster at Southdowns College for three years.
- Dr Alexei du BoisDirector of Academics
Tania HurleyDeputy Director of Academics
James WebbHead of Futures
Annelize GoodwinSenior Academic IEB Coordinator- Pete StorrarDirector of Advancement
Pete Storrar previously worked in research before joining Hilton College. He believes that for a student to thrive at the school, family values must align with those of the institution.