IES Hout Bay International School

The school is committed to an inclusive, international education that nurtures curiosity, celebrates diversity, and inspires students to engage meaningfully with the world. It follows the IB Learner Profile, which emphasizes human capacities and responsibilities that extend beyond academic achievement, aiming to empower students to think globally and act compassionately.

The school offers the full IB Continuum: the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for ages 3 to 11, the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for ages 11 to 16, and the Diploma Programme (DP) for students aged 16 to 18. The PYP focuses on inquiry-based learning across math, language, social studies, science, and the arts, while the MYP provides a skills-based framework covering eight subject groups including languages, sciences, and design. The DP is a rigorous programme requiring six subjects, the Theory of Knowledge course, a 4,000-word extended essay, and CAS participation.

The school prepares students for success at tertiary institutions worldwide, with IB Diploma graduates having enrolled in over 700 universities. The curriculum aims to equip students with the skills, values, and knowledge to make a meaningful impact and succeed in their future endeavors.

The school employs a dedicated Special Educational Needs (SEN) coordinator and a school counselor to support student development. It adapts to each student’s pace and individual needs, providing a caring and supportive environment.

Prospective families must submit an application form, a non-refundable R800 application fee, and relevant documentation, including academic reports, identity documents, and, if applicable, special educational needs reports. All applicants undergo an age-appropriate admission assessment lasting one to three hours. Foreign students are required by law to obtain a valid study visa in the name of the school before commencing studies, and short-stay students are considered for minimum durations of six months.

The school provides a 2026 calendar for reference.

The campus is a purpose-built facility featuring a Junior Primary block, a custom-designed Early Years and Nursery facility, and dedicated outdoor play areas. It includes a modern school canteen with mountain views and a state-of-the-art Robotics Lab equipped with current technology.

The school emphasizes Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS), which encompasses culture, the arts, sport, physical education, community outreach, and service learning. These activities are designed to foster holistic development beyond academic success.