“Akademie is ons besigheid” or “Education is our business”. That is the proud slogan of D.F. Malan High School. Established in 1954, D.F. Malan High School stands as a beacon of Afrikaans education in Bellville. But did you know its story began amidst controversy?
Initially known as Bellville Secondary School, D.F. Malan High School started in the Bellville Police Station building. Imagine sixty Afrikaans-speaking Grade 8 students starting their high school journey there.
The school was named after Dr. Daniel Francois Malan. He was the Prime Minister of South Africa and architect of apartheid. This caused scrutiny in later years. In 2021, there were calls for a name change.
D.F. Malan High School quickly gained prominence. In 1958, the first head boy achieved third place on the Cape merit list. This marked the start of academic excellence. D.F. Malan High School consistently ranked among the top schools in the Western Cape.
The school excels nationally and internationally. It became part of the Allan Gray Circle of Excellence in 2007. Fair Lady magazine recognized D.F. Malan High School as a top school in the country in 2013 and 2015. Cambridge University honored D.F. Malan High School as one of the top hundred schools worldwide.
D.F. Malan High School also boasts a vibrant music scene. Many famous South African musicians are associated with the school. Bands like aKing and Die Heuwels Fantasties have roots here. This led to the Bellville area being nicknamed “Bellville Rock City”. Musician Loki Rothman reached the final of SA’s Got Talent while still a student at D.F. Malan High School.
The school has produced notable alumni. Werner Greeff played Springbok rugby. Marais Erasmus is an international cricket umpire. Eduard Greyling is a ballet dancer. Many actors also attended D.F. Malan High School.
D.F. Malan High School participates in the MTBS athletics competition. Students create songs and cheers to encourage their athletes. The school also has an Interschools event with Bellville High School. They compete in rugby, hockey, netball, and more.
Hoërskool D.F. Malan celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2024. The school remains committed to providing a safe and value-driven environment. Its core values known as VRIEND: Verantwoordbaarheid, Respek, Integriteit, Empatie, Nederigheid, and Diensbaarheid or Responsibility, Respect, Integrity, Empathy, Humility and Serviceability.
D.F. Malan High School continues to evolve. It embraces change and innovation. The school equips learners with the skills to make a positive impact. The school motto says it all “Akademie is ons besigheid.”