Curro runs several school models so families can match budget, learning style and pathway to matric. This explainer breaks down the three most-asked-about options—Curro Academy, Curro DigiEd and Curro Select—in plain English, with links to official info for deeper checking. Offerings vary by campus, so always confirm details with the school before you apply.
At a glance (the quick comparison)
Curro Academy – a cost-sensitive model designed to keep fees as low as possible without compromising standards, preparing learners for the NSC matric. Best for families who want Curro structure and support at an accessible price.
Curro DigiEd – a tech-forward high school approach (Grades 8–12) with strong emphasis on Maths, Science, Coding/Robotics, blended learning, and the NSC exam. Currently concentrated in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Curro Select – schools with enhanced curricula and facilities, often acquired by Curro and retaining their heritage/identity. Many run IEB, and several offer Cambridge at Select campuses.
What each model offers
Curro Academy: affordable, structured, NSC pathway
Positioning: Curro’s cost-sensitive model—built specifically to keep fees lower while maintaining the Curro curriculum and academic standards.
Curriculum & matric: Prepares learners for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) in Grade 12.
Breadth: You’ll find Academy campuses countrywide; sports and cultural options are focused rather than exhaustive, varying by campus. Check each school’s fact sheet and fees letter.
Best for: Families prioritising value, predictable routines and a clear NSC route, with extracurriculars that cover the essentials.
Curro DigiEd: tech-centred high school with NSC
Positioning: A technology-rich high school model (typically Grades 8–12) with extended use of e-learning tools, strong STEM focus and practical problem-solving—while still aiming at the NSC matric.
Where it’s offered: Currently concentrated in Johannesburg and Cape Town at selected campuses (e.g., New Road, Delft, Barlow Park).
Day model: Some campuses publish longer academic days and structured revision blocks—check each campus fact sheet for the timetable.
Best for: Learners who thrive with devices, blended learning and STEM, and want the affordability/structure of Curro with a modern delivery model.
Curro Select: heritage schools with enriched options (IEB and sometimes Cambridge)
Positioning: Acquired schools within Curro that keep their identity and ethos while benefiting from Curro’s systems; pitched with enhanced curricula and facilities.
Curriculum & matric: Many Select schools offer IEB; several Select campuses run Cambridge programmes as well (confirm per campus).
Breadth: Typically span from early years to Grade 12, but specifics differ by campus—always check the school’s page.
Best for: Families seeking broader subject/cultural options, premium facilities and the IEB or Cambridge route where available.
How to decide: a five-step checklist
Choose your Matric pathway first
Prefer NSC? Both Academy and DigiEd prepare for NSC.
Prefer IEB (or Cambridge)? Look at Select campuses—and confirm the exam body on that school’s page.
Match the learning model to your child
Loves screens, coding, robotics and project-based work? DigiEd often fits well.
Wants a classic timetable with focused extras and lower fees? Academy.
Wants richer cultural/sporting breadth or a Cambridge/IEB option? Select.
Reality-check location and travel
DigiEd campuses are clustered in Joburg and Cape Town; Academy and Select are more widely spread—start with the campus finder.
Compare fees and what’s included
Fees, levies and extras differ by campus and model. Read the latest fee letter and fact sheet for your shortlist.
Visit—virtually and in person
Check downloads, attend open days, and book a tour. It’s the fastest way to feel differences in culture, discipline and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Curro DigiEd learners write the NSC or IEB?
NSC. DigiEd prepares learners for the National Senior Certificate at the end of Grade 12.
Is Curro Academy the “cheapest” Curro model?
Academy is described by Curro as cost-sensitive/affordable—designed to keep fees as low as possible while meeting Curro’s academic standards. Actual fees vary by campus; check the fee letter for exact amounts.
What exactly is Curro Select?
Select schools are acquired institutions with enhanced curricula and facilities that generally keep their original ethos. Many are IEB, and some offer Cambridge. Always verify the exam body with the campus.
Where is DigiEd available?
Curro notes DigiEd is offered in Johannesburg and Cape Town, at specific high-school campuses.
Useful Links
Curro Academy (model): overview + campus links.
Curro DigiEd (model): focus, locations and subjects.
Curro Select (model): positioning and curriculum options.
Curriculum overview: which models write NSC/IEB/Cambridge?