Inspired Education Group’s two KwaZulu-Natal schools – Reddam House Ballito and Reddam House Umhlanga – have once again delivered exceptional results in the Independent Examinations Board (IEB) National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, achieving a 100% pass rate and 99% Bachelor’s Degree pass rate. The Class of 2024 achieved a total of 239 distinctions across both campuses, averaging an impressive 2.6 distinctions per student. Additionally, 32 students earned four or more distinctions, and the two schools collectively achieved an impressive 74% average. One student, Ruth Kesene from Reddam House Umhlanga, achieved 10 distinctions.
Top achievers receive national recognition in IEB rankings
Two Reddam House Umhlanga students achieved national recognition on the IEB’s Outstanding and Commendable lists for their achievements. Ruth Kesene achieved a national ranking within the top 5% in six or more subjects, placing her on the IEB Outstanding Achievement List, while Pirash Baijnath was listed on the IEB’s Commendable Achievement List for achieving a national ranking within the top 5% in five subjects.
Within the IEB’s list of achievers in the Top 1% of subjects, 10 Reddam House students achieved this prestigious national ranking in a total of 12 subjects. The top achievers were Kaity Trembath from Reddam House Ballito; and Pirash Baijnath, Shayur Bansee, Jaime Ferguson, Amber Lewis, Ella Matthews, Gianna Reddy, Ramze Williams, Walther de Bruin and Jean Yu from Reddam House Umhlanga.
Outstanding results at Reddam House Ballito
- Top achievers:
o Aaminah Vally achieved eight distinctions, including 96% in Mathematics and over 90% in Information Technology, Physical Sciences, Accounting, and Afrikaans First Additional Language. Her overall average was 91%.
o Dhiya Singh earned seven distinctions with an overall average of 90%, scoring over 90% in Mathematics, Afrikaans First Additional Language, French, and Information Technology.
o Abban Khan achieved 97% for Mathematics, showcasing a strong aptitude in the sciences.
- School-wide achievements:
o An average of 76% and three distinctions per student.
o 41% of candidates achieved an A average.
o 100% Bachelor’s Degree pass rate.
o Class averages: 92% in French Second Additional Language, 88% in isiZulu First Additional Language, 81% in Mathematical Literacy, and 85% in Accounting.
Outstanding results at Reddam House Umhlanga
- Top achievers:
o Ruth Kesene excelled with 10 distinctions, achieving 97% for Mathematics and over 90% in Life Orientation, English, isiZulu, and Music. Her overall average was 92%. Ruth’s exceptional academic achievements earned her the prestigious Dux Scholar Award, recognising her as the top academic performer at Reddam House Umhlanga. She also earned a place on the IEB Outstanding Achievement List for ranking within the top 5% nationally in six or more subjects. Beyond academics, Ruth showcased her multifaceted talents as the leader of the school’s Student Christian Association, COALS, and as a violinist in the school orchestra, where she performed alongside the KZN Philharmonic Orchestra at the annual Side-by-Side concert. Her dedication and contributions across various domains make her one of the most accomplished students in the school’s history.
o Jean Yu achieved eight distinctions, including 99% in Mathematics and over 90% in isiZulu, Engineering Graphics & Design, and Further Studies Mathematics Extended, with an overall average of 91%.
o Walther de Bruin achieved seven distinctions, including recognition in the top 1% of all IEB candidates in three subjects: Afrikaans First Additional Language, English Home Language, and Mathematics. Known as Reddam House Umhlanga’s “gentle giant” at 6ft6in, Walther was also First Team Rugby Captain and Vice Captain of the First Team Water Polo, embodying leadership and humility. His exceptional academic results included 98% in Mathematics, 93% in Music, and 86% in Physical Sciences. Beyond academics and sports, Walther performed with the Reddam House choir at Carnegie Hall in New York City, receiving standing ovations. His ability to balance rigorous academics with leadership and extracurricular activities makes him a role model for his peers and a shining example of the school’s holistic approach to education.
o Pirash Baijnath earned seven distinctions, including 97% for Mathematics and over 90% in English, Accounting, and Information Technology, achieving an average of 92%.
o Shayur Bansee earned seven distinctions, including over 90% in Life Orientation, Mathematics, English, isiZulu, and Accounting, with an average of 90%.
- School-wide achievements:
o 24% of candidates achieved an A average overall.
o An impressive average of 2.5 distinctions per student.
o Class averages: 82% in Visual Arts, 83% in Dance Studies, 83% in Information Technology, and 82% in isiZulu First Additional Language.
Celebrating perseverance and excellence
These exceptional results are a testament to the resilience and determination of Reddam House’s students. Beyond academics, they reflect the schools’ holistic approach to nurturing well-rounded individuals.
Says Shelley Peringuey, College Head of Reddam House Umhlanga, “We are immensely proud of our students’ hard work and commitment. Ruth Kesene’s achievement of 10 distinctions is a remarkable testament to her determination and discipline.”
Adds Catherine Raw, Executive Head of Reddam House Ballito, “Our students have made us exceptionally proud with their outstanding achievements. Their success is a testament to the excellent education and nurturing environment Reddam House offers.”
National context
Reddam House South Africa’s eight schools achieved an outstanding total of 1,178 distinctions in 2024, averaging 2.44 distinctions per student. The schools recorded a 97% Bachelor’s Degree pass rate, with 21% of students achieving an A aggregate overall.
Says Ravi Nadasen, CEO of Inspired Education Group Africa & the Middle East, “Congratulations to our incredible Class of 2024! Their achievements reflect not only their hard work and determination but also the unwavering commitment of their teachers and families who supported them throughout this journey. The exceptional results at Reddam House Ballito and Reddam House Umhlanga, which includes the national recognition of top achievers and consistent excellence in multiple subjects, highlight the value of a holistic and world-class education. We are honoured to have been part of their journey and are confident they will continue to excel in their future endeavours.”
For more information about Reddam House schools and their achievements, visit Inspired Education Group.