The rising star of the Western Cape. That’s what they called Maitland High School. This impressive school building stands proudly on Station Road. Its history is richer than you might imagine.
Maitland High School didn’t begin here. Its journey started in 1979 as Kensington Junior Secondary School. It was a temporary solution. Too many students from Factreton Kensington and Maitland needed space. The Western Cape Education Department created KJSS to handle the overflow.
Kensington Primary School teachers and students formed the core of KJSS. A new principal and teachers from nearby schools joined them. The school grew. It added grade 9 in 1980. It remained a junior secondary school until 1991. Its name even changed to Kentemade Secondary School.
Then a pivotal moment. The principal saw potential in the empty Maitland High School building. It was a former Model C school. He applied to the WCED for permission to move. He wanted to expand the curriculum to include grades 10 11 and 12.
Permission was granted. At the end of 1991 the school relocated to its current location. Approximately 300 learners made the move. In 1992 they had their first grade 10 learners. In 1993 the name finally changed to Maitland High School.
Maitland High School boasts a motto: Strive to Achieve. The school badge is navy blue red and white. It depicts a sheath of corn representing growth a lit lamp symbolizing education a book for learning and the motto itself.
The school’s third principal added a new slogan. It perfectly captured its spirit and ambitions: the rising star of the Western Cape. Maitland High School’s story is one of adaptation growth and a commitment to education. It’s a testament to the dedication of its students teachers and staff. It continues to shine brightly in the heart of Maitland. It has educated many successful individuals including international fashion designers and commercial pilots. The school thrives and continues to educate and inspire the next generation of leaders.