Hello learners and parents in KwaZulu-Natal. On this page we will guide you thoroughly on the important aspects when considering to send your child to Richem Secondary School. We will look at the ultimate deciding factors such as Matric Pass Rate, Location, School Fees, Application Process and more.
Richem Secondary School is a public high school located in Empangeni under the uMhlathuze Local Municipality, within the King Cetshwayo District. It is a fee-paying school with over 800 learners enrolled and offers a full academic curriculum from Grade 8 to Grade 12. The school is situated in a semi-urban area and has built a strong reputation over the years for good discipline and improved matric results.
A quick look at Richem Secondary School
- Location: Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal
- School Type: Public Secondary School
- Fees: Yes (Fee Charging)
- Contact Number: 035 772 2350
- Learner Count: 867
- Principal: Mr D Mntambo
- 2024 Matric Pass Rate: 96.3%
Table of Contents
Is Richem Secondary School a Good School?
Richem Secondary School is one of the high-performing schools in the King Cetshwayo District. Remember, consistency in results, strong leadership, and school environment also matter. Therefore, Richem Secondary is a good school to study at. However, do not get too carried away though, the school’s facilities may not match those of elite or private schools in nearby urban centres.
Richem Secondary School Matric (Grade 12) Performance Over the Years
Let us look at Richem Secondary School matric pass rate over the years and determine if it is on an upward trend or not.
- 2022: 104 wrote, 86 passed (82.7%)
- 2023: 127 wrote, 115 passed (90.6%)
- 2024: 136 wrote, 131 passed (96.3%)
The steady improvement from 2022 to 2024 shows that the school is investing in academic results and learner support. The 2024 result is impressive and places the school among the top in the district.
Reasons to Study at Richem Secondary School
Although Richem Secondary School is actually a public school, its academic standards continue to rise. Here are the 5 reasons to prove it:
- Matric pass rate close to 100% in 2024.
- Stable learner population and strong leadership.
- Located in an accessible part of Empangeni.
- Positive district performance and recognition.
- Affordable school fees compared to independent schools.
Reasons Not to Study at Richem Secondary School
Richem Secondary School can be limiting for learners who seek elite facilities or highly specialised subject offerings. This can also cause frustration for parents expecting private school resources. As a parent, here are the reasons that might disadvantage you if you plan to send your child at Richem Secondary School:
- Infrastructure might not match top urban schools.
- Not a special focus school (e.g. maths, science, or technology).
- Subject offering may be limited by staff availability.
- Competitive placement into top subject streams.
School Fees at Richem Secondary School
Richem Secondary School is a fee-paying school. Based on its district and category, school fees are estimated at R6 000 to R8 000 per year. Parents are encouraged to contact the school directly for confirmed 2025 amounts and payment arrangements.
Subjects Offered at Richem Secondary School
The school offers a full selection of FET Phase subjects, including:
- English Home Language
- isiZulu First Additional Language
- Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy
- Physical Sciences
- Life Sciences
- Business Studies
- Accounting
- Geography
- History
- Life Orientation
- Economics
- Tourism
Subject selection is finalised based on learner demand and school capacity.
How to Apply at Richem Secondary School
In order to apply at Richem Secondary School, parents should follow the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education process or apply directly at the school.
Steps:
- Collect an application form from the school.
- Submit certified documents including birth certificate, proof of residence, parent ID, and latest school report.
- Submit before the deadline, which is normally between June and September.
- Enquire about interviews or orientation dates if applicable.
Richem Secondary School Contacts
Physical Address: Empangeni, KwaZulu-Natal (full GPS: 31.88814, -28.76919)
Phone Number: 035 772 2350
Principal: Mr D Mntambo
District: King Cetshwayo
As a learner or a parent, it is up to you to decide if Richem Secondary School fits your child’s goals and academic path. But with improving results and affordable education, it is definitely one of the better-performing public schools in Empangeni.