Founded in 1898, Epworth has evolved from a disparate settler school to a leading independent educational facility with a proud history.
Two pioneering women, Miss Emily Lowe and Miss Emma Mason, boarded a ship from England 125 years ago and arrived in Pietermaritzburg to set up a school called Epworth. Named after the birthplace of John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, the school opened its doors on 3 August 1898.
Understandably, the Epworth of today is very different from that of 1898. For one, the school has evolved considerably from its humble beginnings. It started with 45 settler children who were accommodated in disparate buildings in central Pietermaritzburg. Now there are over 750 pupils housed on a spacious, park-like campus that boasts some of the best facilities in the country.
Although the Epworth community is fundamentally different from that of the late 19th century, the quintessence of who we are and what we stand for has not changed. We have upheld the ideals and aspirations of our two courageous founders, and have stayed true to their vision and creation.
Our school motto Fida Humana Fortis (faith compassion courage) has been a guiding light and is as relevant today as it was in 1898; it is integral to Epworth’s persona and central to school life.
Throughout its history, Epworth has been at the forefront of change and innovation. It has taken brave decisions, boldly valued inclusivity and embraced diversity. Its 125-year track record is full of unique initiatives, scholastic achievements and personal success stories.
In 1902, 15-year old pupil Ethel Mary Doidge wrote her matric examinations and was the Dux of the school. In 1914, she became the first woman in South Africa to receive a doctoral degree. Her work helped save the South African mango industry and contributed significantly to the success of the country’s agricultural sector.
Another noteworthy year in Epworth’s history was 1979. Defying government regulations, the school admitted “girls from other ethnic groups”. The first black pupil was Thandeka Gqubule-Mbeki who went on to pursue a successful career as a journalist, author, SABC anchor woman and political activist. In 1980, Epworth had the highest number of non-white pupils of all the provincial private schools.
Epworth was one of the first schools in the province to introduce adventure-based sports and expeditions, it founded the Independent Schools’ Sports Festival in 1998, and it is one of the two oldest Eco-Schools in South Africa, piloting the programme in 2003.
Today, Epworth is one of South Africa’s leading independent schools. It provides an inclusive, real-world education for boys and girls from grades RRR to 7 and for girls only, from grades 8 to 12. We are a Christian school, grounded in the Methodist tradition, which promotes an ethos of “true to who we are”. Last year, we affirmed and celebrated a proud history behind us and a progressive future ahead of us.
