Stanford Lake College

Many in Limpopo have heard of this school, often advertised as the perfect place for quality education. However, the reality is far from that. Over the years, teacher quality has declined, it appears they now let anyone in amongst the teachers, with experienced educators making it no secret that they too have witnessed a downgrade, ultimately leaving in droves. By my second last year, over ten teachers had left in a single year, replaced by young, inexperienced staff. As a result, class averages plummeted, and the school lost its 100% matric pass rate. Struggling students receive little to no support, with teachers maintaining the same unsympathetic, ineffective methods and resorting to berating instead. Despite high fees, the education level is no better than other local schools, even with small class sizes. Students are forced into excessive extracurriculars, even when their academics suffer, dayscholars can't leave on their own accord unlike other schools, while boarders endure inadequate food, often relying on instant noodles to get by.
Instead of addressing these issues, the headmaster and teachers have only made things worse. Poor leadership, constant staff turnover, and rigid school rules have created a gloomy atmosphere, leading to clashes between students and teachers. Multiple protests occurred during my time there, yet nothing changed.
For outdoor lovers, the school’s setting is appealing, but if you seek quality education, look elsewhere. Without serious changes in leadership and teaching, the school will never live up to its hype.As the teacher leads, so follow the students.

Despite the location the school lacks spirit and unity; discipline varies amongst students as all do not face the same consequences for their actions, if they are favoured by the school there will be little to no action taken for punishment.

The cafeteria food is rarely good and frankly the amount of money paid for meals is way too much in comparison to the quality of the food.

Students do not feel that they have a voice to speak about their concerns as they are often dismissed or neglected. No sense of democracy. The income of the school is clearly prioritised over the needs of the students, and more attention should be paid to the students already there, not prospective students who might attend.

Ultimately the opinions of students need to be taken more seriously.

It is a great school if you enjoy the outdoors and is small if you like that, however does have a lot of student teachers who are not able to teach up to the schools standard

It is a beautiful school with excellent educational systems. The students and teachers are very welcoming and kind. I like how disciplined the school is, it’s beautiful to see my peers being so mature.