Despite its final matric class achieving some of the strongest academic results in the country, King David Victory Park has announced its closure. The school first opened in 1960 to serve Jewish families in Emmarentia, Greenside and Victory Park. Over time, it developed into a full school offering classes from Grade 1 to Matric and became known for its close community and supportive environment.
The campus formed part of the wider King David Schools network, the largest Jewish school system in South Africa. Other campuses continue to operate in Linksfield and Sandton, together with affiliated pre-primary schools.
The South African Board of Jewish Education made the decision to close Victory Park following a thorough review of the school’s future. According to General Director Rabbi Ricky Seeff, learner numbers had steadily declined. With fewer students in many grades, it became difficult to maintain the high academic standards, wide subject choices, strong sports programmes and modern facilities expected from a King’s David school.
Another reason for the closure is that many Jewish families in Johannesburg have moved to north-eastern suburbs, such as Sandton, Glenhazel, and Linksfield. This shift increased enrolment at other campuses while reducing intake at Victory Park. The closure forms part of a broader plan to create a more sustainable and unified “ONE King David” system.
Although the property has not yet been sold, there has been interest from buyers. The board is also working with the local synagogue to secure its future. To ensure the school’s 60-year history remains intact, staff and parents are meticulously preserving trophies, photographs, and records.
Despite the sadness surrounding the closure, the Class of 2025 achieved outstanding results. Every learner earned a bachelor’s pass for university entrance, nearly half achieved A averages, and the school ranked sixth among co-educational private schools nationally.
