The school is situated at the foot of Table Mountain right next to the historical in Cape Town. The school has an enrollment of approximately 500 pupils, who are divided into three houses: Reijger, Dromedaris and De Goede Hoop, named after the three ships that Jan van Riebeeck landed in Cape Town in 1652. The school has firmly established itself in the theatre industry by making it to the finals of the ATKV National Drama Competition for the 13th year running, as well as being nationally awarded for best production, best directing, best actor, best actress and best handling of technical aspects. Famous alumni include the singer Laurika Rauch, struggle hero and former Minister of Science and TechnologyDerek Hanekom and venture capitalistRoelof Botha.
Boarding
The tradition of boarding at Jan van Riebeeck High dates back to 1953 with the construction of the Huis Jordaan, the then girls hostel, on the school campus. This after the CapeTown Administrator and its Executive Committee decided to make funds available for the construction of residences for the school in 1950. The tradition of boarding continues to this day and has become an integral part of life at Jan van Riebeeck High, with a large number of pupils coming from afar.
Huis Jordaan
In 1952, the school committee and staff decided that the girls hostel would be called Huis Jordaan, a lasting reminder of the late Mr. J.J. Jordaan, the first head of Jan van Riebeeck High School. On 9 December 1952, the cornerstone of Huis Jordaan was laid by Dr. W. de Vos Malan, Superintendent General of Education, and on 12 January 1953, Huis Jordaan was captured. The residence has a historically stringent staff selection criteria and employ only energetic and enthusiastic personnel. These staff are predominantly educators attached to the school so that good education practices are assured. Huis Jordaan is a busy and vibrant house, which prides itself in being more than just a residence – one where lifelong friendships, dreams and experiences are built. The girls and boys houses are balanced residences that perform excellently in academic, cultural, leadership, social and sports. Time management at Huis Jordaan has historically been a focus and even though academic standards are given high priority, there remains ample time for games, braais on the “stoep”, festive excursions and exciting opportunities that gives the house its liveliness. Students departing the hostels at the end of their final year of study are said to have developed a noticeable sense of independence and confidence which accompanies a real sense of self-worth. The Huis Jordaan facility caters for boys and girls from Grade 8 to 12, and accommodates termly and weekly boarders, with students returning home for the school holidays. Being a resident on campus means boarders have easy access to the many wonderful school facilities. The facility is located next to the historic Welgemeend on the school premises in Kloof Street. Huis Jordaan reflects a homely atmosphere where strong traditions and a good spirit fill the guest rooms. Currently Huis Jordaan is jointly managed by Huibrecht Steyn, the Ladies Superintendent, and Jakkie Steyn, the Gents Superintendent. In 2016 management started with a building and modernisation process. All boarders receive WiFI connectivity. From 2018 the Huis Jordaan facility accommodates both residences on the school grounds.
