Traditionally, this meant waking up at 6 AM, putting on a blazer, and sitting in a classroom until 2 PM. But the world of work has changed—it is now remote, digital, and outcome-based. 

At Teneo, our Online High School (Grades 8-12) is designed not just to get learners through Matric, but to prepare them for the real, ever-evolving world of technology and work. 

Senior Phase (Grades 8-9): The transition

The jump from primary to high school is significant. Subject loads increase, and critical thinking becomes key. At Teneo, we set up senior learners for success by encouraging: 

• Subject exploration: Grade 8 and 9 are about finding strengths. We offer the full range of CAPS subjects so learners can "taste" Economic Management Sciences, Arts, and Technologies before they have to choose their Matric subjects in Grade 10.

• Digital responsibility: This is the age where learners take ownership. They learn to manage their own Google Calendar, submit assignments to the LMS (Learning Management System) on time, and communicate professionally with teachers via email.

FET Phase (Grades 10-12): The stakes get high

Grades 10, 11, and 12 are the "FET" (Further Education and Training) phase. The marks earned here determine university entry. Here are how these vital years of your learner’s schooling journey work at online schools like Teneo: 

• The Matric certificate: Our learners write the SACAI-administered NSC examinations. This is the exact same qualification as learners in government or IEB schools. It is fully accredited by Umalusi.

• University acceptance: Universities love online school graduates. Why? Because the first year of university is a shock to most learners who are used to being spoon-fed. Teneo learners arrive at university already knowing how to work independently, research online, and manage their own schedules.

Subject choices: The "online advantage"

In a physical school, your subject choices are limited by the timetable and the available teachers. If only three kids want to do IT, the school usually cancels the class.

In an online school, we don't have that problem. 

We can aggregate learners from across the country. This allows us to offer specialised subjects that give learners a career edge:

• Information Technology (IT) & CAT: Essential for the digital economy.

• Engineering Graphics & Design (EGD): For future architects and engineers.

• Tourism & Consumer Studies: Vocational subjects that are often cut from traditional schools.

• Multiple languages: We offer a broader range of First Additional Languages.

The social life of a teenager

A big concern of many parents especially as their child enters their teen years: loneliness and isolation. 

But this is actually the biggest myth about online high school. Teens socialise differently in today’s world – because, unlike us, they are full digital natives. That’s not to say they don’t need as much social interaction, it simply means their norm around social interaction has changed. And at Teneo, we find learners actually socialise more with our online structure. 

• In-class collaboration: Our live lessons utilise "breakout rooms" where learners solve problems in small groups.

• The "tribe" effect: In a small physical school, if you are a "nerd" or an "artist," you might feel isolated. In an online school with thousands of learners, you can find your tribe. Our Gaming Club, Debate Team, and Photography Club are thriving communities where learners make genuine friends and connections that evolve beyond Teneo School. 

• Regional meetups: We organise in-person sports days, Matric dances, and socials in major cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban to keep in-person connection regularly accessible.

Discipline and routine

Online high school is not for the lazy. It requires self-discipline, which is a vital skill for any career path your child is going to take. Self-discipline is encouraged through: 

• Strict attendance: We track attendance in live classes. If a learner is absent, parents are notified.

• Cameras on: We encourage cameras to be on so we can ensure maximum engagement.

• The "Get Out of Jail" card: If a learner is sick or competing in a sports tournament, they don't fall behind. They simply watch the recording of the lesson they missed. This flexibility is a game-changer for athletes and performers, and ensures their academic success can keep up with them as they pursue their gifts and interests.

Is it right for your teen?

If your teen is feeling stifled by the rigid rules, bullying, or wasted time of traditional school, Teneo offers a refreshing alternative. It’s a grown-up way to learn for learners ready to take charge of their future.

View the high school subjects at Teneo.

Your child belongs at Teneo 

Teneo is rated the no. 1 online school in South Africa by HelloPeter. With 170+ SACE-registered teachers, we have helped more than 3 500 learners matriculate with a National Senior Certificate (NSC), opening the doors to tertiary education and future career opportunities. Our award-winning Smart School System™combines the best parts of in-person schooling, with the convenience and benefits of online learning for learners across South Africa. If you’re ready to take the next step towards education of the future, start your learning journey with Teneo today.