A legacy that continues
More than 165 years of learning, growth and community.
Our story
Rhenish Primary School was founded on 1 May 1860 by missionaries of the Rhenish Society, making it the oldest girls’ school in South Africa.
The school was established under the leadership of Reverend P.D. Lückhoff to provide education for the daughters of German missionaries stationed in the region. With just eight learners and its first principal, Miss Bertha Voight, the foundations of what would become a lasting educational institution were laid.
Growing through the years
From its early beginnings in Alexander Street, the school later moved to the Braak, and continued to grow as the needs of the community changed.
In 1901, the school was taken over by the government, marking an important step in its development. Over the decades that followed, Rhenish continued to evolve, with the high school moving to Krigeville in 1958 and the primary school relocating to the Doornbosch estate in 1984.
In 1985, Rhenish Primary became a coeducational school, opening its doors to both girls and boys while continuing to build on its long-standing traditions.
Our school houses
Rhenish Primary School’s house system forms an important part of school life, encouraging participation, teamwork, and a sense of belonging across all grades.
Learners are placed into one of three houses: Weber (Red), Terlinden (Green), and Van der Stel (Yellow). Each house is named after figures connected to the school’s history and the broader Stellenbosch community, reflecting the legacy that continues to shape Rhenish today.
Weber
Reverend Jacob Weber was a Rhenish missionary who played a key role in establishing and supporting early education in the Stellenbosch community.
Terlinden
Reverend Terlinden was a Rhenish missionary connected to the early development of the church and educational work in the region.
Van Der Stel
Simon van der Stel was the first Governor of the Cape Colony and the founder of Stellenbosch, after whom the town is named.
While learners experience the houses through sport, events, and friendly competition, these names also serve as a link to the past, reminding us of the people and stories that form part of the school’s journey.
A heritage that lives on
While much has changed over time, the values and sense of continuity at Rhenish remain strong.
Tradition is not something that exists only in the past. It is reflected in the daily life of the school, in its culture, and in the way learners are guided and supported.
Each new generation becomes part of a story that has been shaped over more than a century and a half.
A foundation for the future
Rhenish continues to honour its heritage while adapting to the needs of today’s learners.
The school’s history provides a sense of stability and identity, while its approach to education ensures that learners are prepared for the future.
Rhenish’s heritage is not only something to be remembered, but something that continues to shape the experience of every learner who becomes part of the school.