The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) opened its school transfer application window yesterday, 3 August, for learners in Grades 2 to 7 and 9 to 12. Applications will run until 17 August for the 2027 school year.

The department’s communication director, Bronagh Hammond, said parents and caregivers wanting to move their child to a different school next year should submit their applications during this period.

Changes to the application process

The WCED has advised that the application process has been adjusted this year, and parents need to check whether they should apply online or directly at a school or district office, depending on their circumstances.

Online applications are available only to learners who meet specific transfer criteria. Parents whose situations do not qualify will need to apply directly to the school they want their child to attend.

Who can apply online

Parents may submit an online transfer application if any of the following apply:

• The learner has reached the highest grade offered by their current school, such as a school that only goes up to Grade 3 or Grade 9.
• A parent or caregiver has moved employment to another area, making a school change necessary.
• The family has moved home to a different area.
  

Online applications can be submitted through the WCED Admissions website at admissions.westerncape.gov.za. Parents who have not used the system before will need to create an account first.

When to apply directly at a school

Parents who want to move their child purely because they prefer another school, and who do not meet any of the online criteria, must apply directly to the school of their choice using a hard-copy transfer request form.

The WCED said certain applications must also be submitted in hard copy at the school only, due to their sensitive nature. These include cases where:

• There is a documented concern about the learner’s safety, wellbeing or protection.
• The learner needs access to medical or psychological treatment that is not reasonably available near their current school, and supporting documents must accompany the application.
• The learner is a ward of the State under the care of an appointed guardian or statutory authority.

Where to get forms and what to bring

Transfer request forms are available from the Resources section of the WCED Admissions website, as well as at schools and district offices.

Parents and caregivers will need to supply the following supporting documents:

• The learner’s latest school report.
• An ID, birth certificate, passport, study permit, proof of application or police affidavit.
• Proof of residential address or a police affidavit.

Grade R, 1 and 8 admissions

The WCED said schools are currently finalising admission lists and confirming placements for Grade R, Grade 1 and Grade 8 learners for 2027.

Parents who have not yet applied for these grades are urged to contact their district office as soon as possible. The online admissions platform for Grade R, 1 and 8 applications is currently closed.

For more information, visit westerncape.gov.za/education or call the WCED on 0861 819 919 and select option 1 for admissions.

ALSO READ: Skole in noordelike voorstede is voor in die koor in ATKV-Applous-koorkompetisie