Academics
Where learning takes centre stage
Our commitment to academic excellence goes beyond achieving top grades. We cultivate a culture that fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and intellectual rigour. Our dedicated teachers equip students with the tools and skills to not only excel in their studies but also to approach challenges with resilience and a willingness to question and seek new perspectives.
Since its humble beginnings 1988 with just 145 learners and 8 teachers, Fourways High School has evolved into a thriving educational institution, prioritising both academic excellence and a well-rounded learning experience. Now boasting a student complement of over 1200, with more than 70 teaching staff, Fourways High is an established institution with a proud history.
Small class sizes, big opportunities
With a focus on individualised attention, junior grade classes boast a maximum of 35 students, while senior classes average a comfortable 28.
Technology meets education: smart boards for interactive learning
The majority of classrooms at Fourways High School are equipped with cutting-edge smart boards, projectors, and a computer for each educator.
Matric Pass Rate 2024
Curriculum
Fourways High School adheres to the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS), mandated by the Gauteng Department of Education. CAPS provides a comprehensive framework for teaching and assessment in all subjects, from Grade R to 12.
For more details on the CAPS curriculum, please visit the Department of Basic Education’s website.
Subjects - Grade 8 and 9
Students in Grades 8 and 9 take the following compulsory subjects:
- English Home Language (HL)
- Afrikaans First Additional Language (FAL)
- Mathematics
- Life Orientation
- Natural Science
- Social Science
- Technology
- Economic Management Systems (EMS)
- Creative Art
Subjects - Grades 10-12
NSC (National Senior Certificate) requirements
To qualify for an NSC, you need to choose seven subjects, four of which are compulsory. These are the minimum requirements:
Four compulsory subjects:
- Two languages. Two of these subjects must be South African languages. One must be a language of teaching and learning, called a Home Language (HL), and the other a First Additional Language (FAL).
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
- Life Orientation
Three further subjects:
Students may choose an additional three subjects from the approved subject list.
Compulsory Subjects
- English Home Language
- Afrikaans First Additional Language
- Mathematics* OR Mathematical Literacy
- Life Orientation
*Students wishing to take Mathematics should have achieved at least 50% overall in Grade 9 Mathematics.
Elective Subjects
- Accounting****
- Business Studies
- Computer Applications and Technology
- Engineering, Graphics and Design****
- Geography
- History
- Information Technology***
- Life Sciences
- Physical Sciences**
- Tourism
- Visual Arts
** Physical Sciences: Minimum Grade 9 Mathematics result of 70%. Students wishing to take Physical Science must take Mathematics.
*** Information Technology: Home Language ability can be an indicator of programming aptitude. Students wishing to take Information Technology must take Mathematics. Minimum Grade 9 Mathe- matics result of 70%.
**** Accounting & EGD: Recommended that students do Mathematics and have achieved an average of at least 60% for Mathematics in Grade 9.
Promotion Requirements - Grades 8-11
Grade 8 and 9
- English 50%
- Afrikaans 40%
- Maths 40%
- 3 x Other 40%
- 2 x Other 30%
- ONLY 1 Less than 30%
Grade 10 and 11
- English 40%
- 2 x Other 40%
- 3 x Other 30%
- ONLY 1 Other less than 30%
Immigrants
- 1 X Language 40%
- Maths 40%
- 3 x Other 40%
- Remaining 3 30%
Pass Criteria - National Senior Certificate
Pass
- 40% – 3 subjects, (MUST include Home Language)
- 30% – 3 subjects
Can fail 1 subject provided there is full evidence of the SBA having been completed
Diploma Pass
- 40% – Home Language
- 40% – 4 subjects, excluding Life Orientation (can include Home Language)
- 30% – 2 remaining subjects
Can fail 1 subject provided there is full evidence of the SBA having been completed
Bachelors Pass
- 40% – Home Language
- 50% – 4 subjects, EXCL L.O (Can include HL)
- 30% – 2 remaining subjects
Can fail 1 subject provided there is full evidence of the SBA having been completed