From St George’s to Bishop Bavin - and now St Luke’s College: a legacy of service, purpose, and education continues.

May 6, 2025

In January 2026, a fresh new breeze will blow through the leafy streets of Bedfordview. Nestled on the historic Bishop Bavin School campus, a site that began over a century ago as St George’s Home for Boys, St Luke’s College is opening its doors. And with it, a bold new era of purpose-driven Christian education begins.

St George’s was founded in 1915 as a place of safety and upliftment for young boys. Over time, its mission expanded into formal education, leading to the founding of Bishop Bavin School. Now, under the new ownership of St Luke’s College, this deep-rooted legacy of nurturing young lives continues with a renewed vision for excellence, purpose and leadership.

As part of the ThriveEd network of schools, St Luke’s College offers a high-quality private school experience designed to rival the best in the country, at a more affordable, mid-tier annual fee structure (R56,000 to R75,000, or from R5,100pm over 11 months). From academics to sport and culture, learners will be immersed in a dynamic school environment where they can grow, achieve, and thrive.

From Grade 0000 to Grade 9 (with Grades 10 to 12 phasing in from 2027), learners will be guided by passionate teachers and a powerful academic programme. St Luke’s is in the process of registering with the Independent Examinations Board (IEB), offering families a future-focused curriculum with strong foundations in core subjects and electives in science, commerce, technology, and sport.

Beyond the classroom, learners will enjoy an expansive co-curricular programme, with athletics, swimming, tennis, cricket, rugby, soccer, netball, chess, debating, choir, and more — all included in school fees.

The nine-hectare campus remains one of the most beautiful and spacious school environments in the area. With timeless architecture by Sir Herbert Baker, the grounds also include a modern gym and dance studio, expansive sports fields, and a beautiful on-site chapel. In preparation for the school’s opening, upgrades and enhancements are being made across the campus, ensuring that the facilities match the excellence of the educational vision at St Luke’s.

Rooted in Christian faith, St Luke’s integrates daily practices of worship, spiritual growth, and service into school life. These elements are woven into the rhythm of the day and help shape learners with strong values, moral clarity, and leadership capacity.

“Education is about more than just academics,” says Colleen Traviss-Lea, Interim Executive Head. “It’s about guiding young people to discover who they are, grow in character, and step into their God-given potential.”

Adds Matt Mare, CEO of ThriveEd and Founding Partner: “We’re inspired by the legacy of this campus — its commitment to care, character, and community. At St Luke’s, we’ll build on that legacy by creating a nurturing school where every child thrives.”

For open day and walkabout details or enrolment information, visit www.stlukescollege.co.za or contact apply@stlukescollege.co.za / 010 1010 570.

This article is featured in the local Get It magazine: May 2025 edition