Holy Cross High School’s story began with a profound mission. The Holy Cross Congregation sought to provide education where it was needed most. The congregation was founded in Switzerland in 1849. Its work quickly spread across the globe.
The Sisters of the Holy Cross arrived in South Africa in 1883. They were a missionary order. Their first school was in Umtata. It was created to educate disadvantaged children. The Sisters’ work extended beyond schools. They established orphanages, hospitals, and homes for the elderly. Many Sisters were nurses and social workers. They worked closely with communities.
In Cape Town, the Sisters opened schools. They also opened an orphanage and a Teacher Training College called St. Augustine’s. Many of these institutions are now state schools. They still stand on church property. The Teacher Training College closed in 1974 due to the Group Areas Act. The orphanage moved into the Cape Flats.
In 1910, the Sisters decided to open a school in Maitland. This is where Holy Cross High School began. They started in old farm buildings. Over the years, the property developed. The school offered boarding facilities. It provided primary and high school education until 1974. A new primary school was built nearby. After that, the Maitland premises became a high school for girls only.
Holy Cross High School faced many challenges. During apartheid, government funding was withdrawn from independent schools. The Sisters financed the school to ensure its survival. Holy Cross High School was one of the first “open” schools in Cape Town. It welcomed learners and staff of all races. The nuns were the first to welcome non-white students.
Decreasing numbers of Sisters forced the closure of boarding facilities in the 1980s. These rooms were converted into classrooms as the school grew.
In the 1900s, several principals led Holy Cross High School. Sister Wilfrad was followed by Sister Rita. Sister Margaret served as principal twice. She served in 1986 and 1987. She remained principal until her death in 2009. Mrs. Erna Lehy became the first lay principal. After Mrs. Lehy retired, Mr. Michael Fouche took over. He was the first male principal of Holy Cross High.
Holy Cross High School upholds the values envisioned by the nuns. These values include education based on Gospel values. They work towards the upliftment of communities, especially women. They uphold justice and the dignity of every person. The school provides education for refugees and immigrants from other African countries.
Today Holy Cross High School stands at 161 Coronation Road in Maitland. According to a 2023 survey, 335 learners are served by 15 educators. This results in a student-teacher ratio of 22:1. The school is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday to Thursday. On Fridays, it closes earlier at 1:30 PM.
Holy Cross High School continues its mission. It provides quality education. It embraces diversity. It remains committed to its founding values.