Hoërskool Jan van Riebeeck

In 1952, the school committee and staff decided that the girls hostel would be called Huis Jordaan, a lasting reminder of the late Mr. J.J. Jordaan, the first head of Jan van Riebeeck High School (1926 – 1936). On 9 December 1952, the cornerstone of Huis Jordaan was laid by Dr. W. de Vos Malan, Superintendent General of Education, and on 12 January 1953, Huis Jordaan was captured. The residence has a historically stringent staff selection criteria and employ only energetic and enthusiastic personnel. These staff are predominantly educators attached to the school so that good education practices are assured.

Huis Jordaan is a busy and vibrant house, which prides itself in being more than just a residence – one where lifelong friendships, dreams and experiences are built. The girls (Sop) and boys (Rog) houses are balanced residences that perform excellently in academic, cultural, leadership, social and sports. Time management at Huis Jordaan has historically been a focus and even though academic standards are given high priority, there remains ample time for games, braais on the “stoep”, festive excursions and exciting opportunities that gives the house its liveliness. Students departing the hostels at the end of their final year of study are said to have developed a noticeable sense of independence and confidence which accompanies a real sense of self-worth.

The Huis Jordaan facility caters for boys and girls from Grade 8 to 12, and accommodates termly and weekly boarders, with students returning home for the school holidays. Being a resident on campus means boarders have easy access to the many wonderful school facilities. The facility is located next to the historic Welgemeend on the school premises in Kloof Street. Huis Jordaan reflects a homely atmosphere where strong traditions and a good spirit fill the guest rooms.

Currently Huis Jordaan is jointly managed by Huibrecht Steyn, the Ladies Superintendent (House Mother), and Jakkie Steyn, the Gents Superintendent (House Father).

In 2016 management started with a building and modernisation process. All boarders receive WiFI connectivity. From 2018 the Huis Jordaan facility accommodates both residences (girls and boys) on the school grounds.