Muir College

Muir College is the oldest English-speaking high school in South Africa, tracing its origin back to 1822, when a Scottish educationalist, James Rose-Innes established Uitenhage’s first Free Government School in Cuyler Street on 12 July 1822 with 60 pupils.

In 1865 the Proprietary School – more exclusive and fee-paying, opened. The Rev. Dr Robert Templeton M.A. was the first headmaster. In 1873 the Government School and the Proprietary School amalgamated. In 1875 the school, now known as the Public Non-denominational School, moved to Park Avenue.

During 1892 the school’s name changed to the Muir Academy in honour of the new Secretary General of Education, Sir Thomas Muir. In 1904 a new school building was opened on the Park Avenue site by Dr Muir.

The school’s name changed to Muir High School. In 1962 Muir Primary moved to separate premises. Muir Senior moved to Vanes Estate in 1987 and Muir Primary moved into the Park Avenue buildings. The Senior and Primary schools amalgamated in 1994 and now occupy the Vanes Estate site. Boarding facilities for approximately 100 pupils are also situated on the Vanes campus.

Origin Of The School Badge: The school badge had its origin with the Proprietary School in 1864 and shows the Rampant Lion of Scotland in the left quadrant, which honoured the first (Scottish) headmaster. Facing it is the Cross from Uitenhage’s coat of arms (from the founder of Uitenhage), General J. Uitenhage de Mist’s family crest. Below is the Xhosa Warrior, which represents the Eastern Cape. This figure appears on the seal of the proposed Eastern Cape Colony.

Although the division of the Cape Colony into East and West did not occur, a seal was prepared and is on view in the Cuyler Manor Museum. The last quadrant shows the Anchor, representing the Cape Colony.

Muir College Boys’ High School continues to uphold the traditions and legacy of being one of the oldest boys’ schools in South Africa. Our aim is for learners to enjoy the holistic education that the opportunities on our campus make possible. At Muir we encourage learners to develop holistically and become well-informed citizens, who are familiar with current moral debates as well as ethical issues facing society and the environment. They must be able to communicate effectively – verbally, in writing and through using information technologies.

Boys are encouraged to participate in activities aimed at shaping intellectual, cultural and spiritual growth allowing them to develop an appreciation for the arts, culture, literature and music, participate in sport, and also have sound and healthy lifestyles. Supported by committed members of staff and a dedicated management team, Muir College is burgeoning into an era of education focussed on integrating modern technology with innovative teaching techniques.

Muir endeavours to cultivate a calibre of learner who is able to shift from High School into an institution of Tertiary Education, seamlessly. Tailored to their academic needs, learners are able to select the subjects which support the field of study they have chosen to pursue after school.

Cultural committees and service opportunities within the school provide Muirites with the chance to cultivate a wholesome and interactive experience of school-life. The highest standards of personal and group behaviour are learnt while the learners participate in activities which aim to develop their intellectual, spiritual and cultural growth. Those who serve the school and community, putting service-before-self, learn to contribute positively in society.

The Muirite Clubhouse is the pride and joy of the Old Muirite Union. It serves as a venue for Old Boys and other members of the community to enjoy, while watching cricket and rugby on weekends. The Muirite also serves as a venue for weddings, conferences, parties and is the headquarters of the OMU Executive Committee. The Muirite has a fully stocked bar and will cater to the needs of the function at hand.

The Muirite can be hired for private functions at a cost of R1000.00 which includes 1 barmen for the function. Functions that have over 40 people will require a second barman at a cost of R150. Bookings can be made by contacting.