How Much Does Nursery School Cost? Prices in South Africa

The cost of nursery schools in South Africa varies significantly depending on the city, suburb, facilities, staff-to-child ratio and what is included in the monthly fees. Parents across the country often debate whether these fees are worth the investment, with opinions ranging from absolute satisfaction to concerns about affordability. Here, we present a detailed overview of what parents can expect to pay, what is typically included and why fees differ so drastically.

Average Cost of Nursery Schools in South Africa

Parents report paying anywhere between R1,700 and R12,000 per month for nursery school fees. This wide range depends heavily on location, quality of education, meals provided and added extras such as aftercare, extracurricular activities and holiday clubs.

• Lower-range fees: R1,700 – R3,000 per month (usually smaller community schools, limited meals, basic facilities).
• Mid-range fees: R3,000 – R5,500 per month (most popular option, usually includes meals, snacks, and holiday care).
• High-end fees: R6,000 – R12,000 per month (premium schools in suburbs like Sandton and Fourways, including meals, holiday clubs, aftercare, and sometimes even nappies, wipes, and extra activities).

Half-Day vs Full-Day Nursery Fees

Many schools offer both half-day and full-day options:

• Half-day nursery schools: Typically cost between R2,000 and R4,500, depending on inclusions. Some schools provide a morning snack or breakfast, while others require parents to send food.
• Full-day nursery schools: Range from R3,000 to R7,000, with premium schools reaching R10,000+ per child. These often include breakfast, lunch, and snacks, plus structured learning and afternoon care.

Meals and Nutrition: What’s Included?

A large factor in determining fees is whether meals are included. Many schools provide:

• Breakfast, snacks, and lunch as part of the daily routine. Some schools also provide afternoon snacks.
• Premium nursery schools often offer home-cooked, warm meals prepared on-site.
• In budget-friendly schools, meals may be excluded, leaving parents responsible for sending food daily.

Extra Costs Parents Should Expect

Parents often highlight that, beyond the monthly school fees, there are additional expenses. These can include:

• Stationery fees at the start of the year (around R1,000 or more).
• Toiletries such as wipes, nappies and toilet paper are often requested each term.
• Holiday clubs, which may or may not be included in fees.
• Extra murals like swimming, music, Monkeynastix, coding, or sport, which can add R150–R500 monthly.
• Fundraising activities and dress-up days, where parents contribute small amounts regularly.

Regional Price Differences

Location plays a major role in nursery school pricing:

• Johannesburg (Sandton, Fourways, northern suburbs): Parents pay between R4,500 and R6,500 on average, with some schools costing up to R12,000 for two children.
• Pretoria (Montana, East side): Fees range between R2,400 and R5,500, depending on meals and facilities.
• Cape Town: Premium preschools average between R5,000 and R7,000, with community schools starting around R2,500.
• Smaller towns and rural areas: Parents pay R1,700 – R3,000 for full-day care, with more basic facilities.

What Parents Say About Value for Money

Feedback from parents shows a split in perception:

• Many feel fees are worth every cent, praising the love, care and education their children receive.
• Some parents feel schools overcharge, pointing out high fees with minimal inclusions, such as no meals or limited activities.
• Others stress that a higher fee does not guarantee quality, urging parents to research schools thoroughly before enrolling.

Teachers and Pay Disparities

Another recurring issue is the pay of nursery school teachers. Parents and teachers have noted that while parents pay between R60,000 and R80,000 annually per child, teachers often earn under R20,000 per month with no benefits. Despite their qualifications and crucial role, many teachers feel undervalued compared to the income generated by schools.

Sibling Discounts and Multi-Child Families

Families with multiple children face significantly higher costs. Some schools offer sibling discounts of around 5–10%, while others require full fees per child. For families with two or more children, monthly costs can easily exceed R10,000.

Holiday Care and December Fees

Most schools close for part of December, though many charge for a full 12 months regardless. A few schools waive December fees, while others include holiday clubs in their structure. Parents often prefer schools that provide care during school holidays, as this reduces the need for additional childcare arrangements.

Quality vs Cost: What to Look For

When choosing a nursery school, it is important to balance affordability with quality. Parents should consider:

• Teacher-to-child ratio: Smaller classes with more teachers provide better individual attention.
• Safety and cleanliness: Especially important in areas where illnesses spread easily among children.
• Curriculum and learning approach: Some schools focus on play-based learning, while others use structured academic programmes.
• Meals and nutrition: Schools offering balanced, home-cooked meals often charge more but provide significant convenience for working parents.

Is It Worth It?

For many South African families, nursery school fees represent one of the biggest monthly expenses. Yet most parents agree that the investment in their children’s early education, social development and safety is essential. While some feel overburdened by extra costs and fundraising, others say the peace of mind and quality care are priceless.

Conclusion

Nursery school fees in South Africa range widely, reflecting differences in quality, facilities, and location. Parents can expect to pay anywhere from R1,700 to R12,000 per month, with added costs for stationery, extra murals, and toiletries. While some schools offer exceptional value, others leave parents questioning whether the fees are justified. Ultimately, the decision comes down to individual family budgets, values and the needs of the child.

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