“Honor. Modesty. Wisdom.” Those are the words emblazoned on the Greenside High School crest. This Johannesburg institution has been shaping young minds since its doors first opened January 30 1961. Three hundred students and Dr E Hudson walked through its doors back then.
Greenside High School stands proudly in its namesake suburb. It is known as the Top Public School in Gauteng. The school has become a vital feeder for Wits University.
But let’s rewind a bit further. Before classrooms and corridors, the land held a different kind of promise. It was part of the Rand Nursery. Mike Little remembers it well. He lived nearby. The nursery faced a challenge. Its spring dried up when tarred roads were built. Municipal water became too expensive so the Rand Nursery moved. Greenside High School was later built on the grounds.
Today Greenside High School boasts a wide range of facilities. These facilities support a diverse array of activities. Aspiring athletes dive into the swimming pool. It was expanded in 2013 and 2014. The main sports field hosts cricket matches. Rugby players charge across it. Touch rugby enthusiasts and soccer teams also compete here. Athletes compete in track and field events. Hockey fields run adjacent to Parkview Golf Club. These fields are used for hockey. They also accommodate cricket soccer and rugby. Basketball courts do double duty as netball courts. Eight tennis courts await those with a passion for racquet sports.
Greenside High School is very competitive. It participates in RAPS FEDA EADS and GRADS. The school isn’t just about sports. In 2013 students showcased their talent. They staged a production of _Fame_.
In 2017 Greenside High School’s robotics team achieved international recognition. They traveled to Costa Rica. They competed in the World Robot Olympiad Global Robotics Tournament. Greenside High School was the only public school from South Africa. It represented the country with pride.
But Greenside High School’s legacy extends beyond its grounds. Many talented individuals have walked through its halls. Jani Allan became a renowned columnist. Matthew Buckland made his mark as an Internet entrepreneur. Alistair Cragg achieved international success as a track and field athlete. Candîce Hillebrand is an actress and singer-songwriter. Claire Johnston fronts Mango Groove. Bonnie Mbuli shines as a television host and actress. Nefisa Mkhabela is an actress and influencer. Mmabatho Montsho is an accomplished actress. Lesego Semenya is a celebrity chef. James Small was a rugby star. Jonathan Wacks became a director. These alumni exemplify the diverse talents. They are nurtured at Greenside High School.
The school maintains high academic standards. In 2014 the matriculants achieved a 96% pass rate. Craig Strauss is the current principal. Sixty-six teachers guide nearly 1000 learners.
Greenside High School stands as a beacon of education in Johannesburg. It embodies honor modesty and wisdom. It prepares students for a bright future. The school’s rich history and commitment to excellence. These qualities make it a cornerstone of the community.