A bold new chapter in South African education is underway with the official launch of Seaton House — an independent, co-educational school set to be built north of Ballito on KwaZulu-Natal’s coastal belt. Construction will begin in the first quarter of 2026, with the school scheduled to open in 2027.
Designed to meet the needs of one of South Africa’s fastest-growing regions, Seaton House promises an inspiring, future-focused education grounded in academic excellence, strong values, and meaningful community upliftment. Set in Salt Rock, a coastal region experiencing exponential growth, with as many as 60 new families arriving each month — Seaton House has been purposefully conceived to offer a continuous, co-educational journey from Grade 0000 to Grade 12.
Learners will write the National Senior Certificate examinations through the Independent Examinations Board (IEB). The Seaton House vision is clear: to provide a holistic education that integrates academic rigour with sporting and cultural opportunities, preparing globally competitive scholars.
Speaking at a media event at the Manor House, Seaton House Project Lead and former Kearsney College Headmaster, Elwyn van den Aardweg, noted, “It’s an immense privilege to build a school from the ground up. Working alongside an experienced and passionate team. We are laying traditional foundations while thoughtfully innovating to meet the evolving needs of a changing world.”
Founded on a non-profit model, Seaton House ensures that all surplus is reinvested into the school. In collaboration with Khanyisa Inanda Seminary Community Projects (KICP), a KwaZulu-Natal based non-profit focused on teacher development and education leadership, the school aims to serve not only as a centre of learning but also as a catalyst for mentoring new teachers and strengthening educational capacity across the region.
Seaton House will cater to all learners with a strong offering in traditional school sports, a vibrant arts and cultural programme, and immersive outdoor learning. The campus will include two fields for rugby or soccer, a cricket oval, a full-size hockey astroturf, multipurpose courts, an indoor arena and swimming pools – providing facilities that support a full school sports curriculum.
The school also features onsite forest trails and ecological zones that connect students with the environment and support outdoor learning and recreation. Surrounding mountain biking routes and nearby equestrian centres further extend the range of opportunities available. Collins Residential, a leading developer of exceptional real estate, lifestyle, and leisure destinations, is proud to be part of the professional team supporting the Seaton House build. Geoff Perkins, MD of Collins Residential, expressed support for the school’s vision and the team leading it, noting the clear need for additional high-quality schools in the area.
The school’s 25-hectare campus has been designed by Phil Thornhill of TCRPV, with landscaping by Bernice Rumble of Land Art Studio – both well known for their environmentally conscious and context-sensitive design. Learners living within the Seaton and Lalela estates will enjoy secure, biometric access to the campus – with dedicated routes enabling them to walk or ride their bikes safely to school.
Plans are also in place to introduce boarding facilities, broadening access to students from further afield. As KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast enters a new phase of growth and development, Seaton House stands poised to become an anchor of excellence, integrity, and innovation in education.
Interested families and education stakeholders are encouraged to visit: www.seatonhouse.co.za or contact info@seatonhouse.co.za for further information and to register interest.
The school will also provide ongoing updates, events, and key milestones through its social media platforms.
About Seaton House:
Seaton House is a new, independent school launching on KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast. Set to begin construction in the first quarter of 2026 and open in 2027, the school offers a continuous co-educational journey from Grade 0000 to Grade 12, underpinned by the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) curriculum. Seaton House responds to urgent educational demand in one of South Africa’s fastest-growing regions.
Image: Chairman of the Board & Project Lead – Elwyn van den Aarweg
