Rio Tinto Zhombe High School is a mixed (day and boarding) secondary school located in Kwekwe District, Midlands Province. The school is approximately 60 km northwest of Kwekwe and 80 km southeast of Gokwe, near the Joel Zhombe Growth Point. A prominent signpost with the school’s name and logo marks its presence.
Established in the late 1970s, Rio Tinto Zhombe High School holds historical significance as the first secondary school in the former Zhombe Tribal Trust Land, now known as Zhombe Communal Land.
Construction of the school began in 1976 and was completed in 1978, with the first intake of students in January 1977. Originally opened as an F2 Technical Secondary School, the institution has since transitioned into a conventional academic school offering education from Form 1 through to Form 6.
The school was initially developed through a partnership between the RioZim Foundation and the Rhodesian government's Midlands Provincial Authority. Ownership of the school remained with the RioZim Foundation for five years before being handed over in 1982 to the District Council.
Today, Rio Tinto Zhombe High School is officially registered with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (MoPSE) and is recognized as one of the top-performing secondary schools in the Kwekwe District.
The school boasts a strong academic track record and continues to serve students from diverse backgrounds with quality education.
Curriculum At Rio Tinto Zhombe High School
Rio Tinto Zhombe High School offers a comprehensive and well-rounded curriculum guided by the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC) standards. The school provides education from Form 1 to Form 6, with a strong focus on both academic and practical subjects, aiming to equip students with skills for higher education, employment, and life in general.
The curriculum includes the following subject areas:
Languages:
- English Language
- Shona Language
Sciences:
- Mathematics
- Combined Science
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Biology
Humanities:
- History
- Heritage Studies
- Geography
Commercial Subjects
- Commerce
- Accounts
Practical and Technical Subjects
- Agriculture
- Building Technology and Design
- Food Technology and Design
The school offers a balanced blend of theoretical and practical education, ensuring students are academically competent while also developing technical and entrepreneurial skills.
Senior students (Forms 5 and 6) specialize in either science, commercial, or arts streams based on their academic strengths and career interests.
Rio Tinto Zhombe High School Pass Rates
The school has consistently performed well in national examinations administered by the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (ZIMSEC). While the most recent pass rate statistics for Rio Tinto Zhombe High are currently unavailable, historical data and trends reflect a strong record of academic excellence.
Over the years, Rio Tinto Zhombe High School has regularly ranked among the top 100 secondary schools in Zimbabwe based on examination results. This consistent performance is a testament to the school’s commitment to academic achievement and quality teaching standards.
Notably, at one point, the school made headlines when one of its students achieved the highest points nationally in the ZIMSEC Advanced Level examinations, a remarkable accomplishment that speaks to the school’s ability to nurture high-achieving learners.
Rio Tinto High School Fees
Rio Tinto Zhombe High School offers quality education at an affordable rate. The current termly school fees are USD 530. This fee covers tuition and other essential learning services provided by the school.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to contact the school administration directly for a detailed breakdown and the most up-to-date fee structure.
The school remains committed to maintaining a balance between affordability and the delivery of high-standard education.
Rion Tinto Admission Requirements
Enrollment for Form One Places 2026 at High School is done through the Ministry of Education’s EMAP platform.
This becomes available after the release of the Grade 7 results, typically around mid-November.
For Lower Six, students apply physically at the School. The school doesn't require a specific number of A's as a cut-off, but emphasizes A's in the subjects the student wishes to pursue at A-Level.
Rio Tinto High School Projects and Income-Generating Activities
Rio Tinto Zhombe High School takes pride in integrating practical skills and entrepreneurship into its educational experience through various school-based projects. These initiatives not only support learning but also contribute to the school’s sustainability and community engagement.
The school operates its bakery, which produces baked goods such as buns and other pastries. This project provides hands-on training opportunities for students interested in food technology and business, while also supplying fresh-baked products for both the school community and the surrounding areas
Additionally, the school also runs a vegetable garden, where various crops are cultivated by students and staff. This project supports the Agriculture curriculum and teaches learners important skills in crop production, sustainable farming, and food security. The produce is used to supplement the school kitchen and may also be sold to the local community.
These projects demonstrate Rio Tinto Zhombe High School’s commitment to blending academic learning with life skills, while promoting self-reliance and financial sustainability.
Extracurricular Activities At Rio Tinto High School
The school offers a vibrant extracurricular program that supports the physical, social, and artistic development of its students. Learners are encouraged to participate in a variety of sporting and cultural activities that help build teamwork, discipline, and self-confidence.
Sports offered include the following:
- Tennis
- Basketball
- Netball
- Volleyball
- Athletics
Conclusion
Rio Tinto Zhombe High School stands as a beacon of academic excellence, discipline, and holistic development in the Midlands Province.
With a solid track record in national examinations, a broad ZIMSEC-aligned curriculum, and a commitment to practical skills through projects and extracurricular activities, the school provides an environment where students thrive both academically and personally.
For parents and guardians seeking a well-rounded education for their children, one that balances strong academics, sports, culture, and life skills, Rio Tinto Zhombe High School is a proven and trusted choice.
The school’s dedicated staff, structured learning environment, and supportive community ensure that every learner is guided to reach their full potential.
Rio Tinto Zhombe High School Contact Details
Tel: (055) 20063
Cell: 0773 413 350
FAQ's on Rio Tinto High School
Rio Tinto High School fees are approximately $530 per term for boarders.
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