Brettonwood High School

Brettonwood High School, in Durban, South Africa, opened in January 1966, is named after Brettonwood Avenue, which is at the intersection of the main entrance. It was known as Brettonwood Boys’ High School until it became co-educational in the mid-1970s. The school’s motto is “Audacior“, meaning very bold, extremely courageous, more daring (than the rest).

The first headmaster was Cyril Harcourt, an Englishman who had served with the Royal Navy during the Second World War. His English background was evident in the traditions introduced into the school.

The school uniform was a black blazer with badge, long grey trousers (envoy 4244 “Special Grey for Brettonwood” with 1 inch Turn ups), white shirt, black shoes and a boater. The full uniform, excluding boater, was required to be worn when outside the classroom and with the boater when outside the school.

In the school’s first year there were four classes, two of standard 6 and two of standard 7. In 1969 the school had its first matriculation class. During the initial years sports were restricted to rugby, cricket and athletics. A wider range is now offered. Brettonwood High School was the only co-educational English-speaking school in Durban.

Our vision is to provide opportunities to realise our dreams, through education and training for all. Through excellence. Our mission statement is, Brettonwood High School is dedicated to working together with learners, staff, parents, community and the Department of Education to ensure that our vision of excellence is attained through:

• Mutual respect and sensitivity for each other’s differences
• Commitment and hard work
• Self discipline and understanding
• Exposure to work and recreational opportunities
• Keeping up with change
• Provision of the necessary funding, materials and personnel, and
• Promoting a healthy lifestyle