The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) urges parents to enrol their children as soon as possible, to avoid disappointment and before schools fill up.
You have to apply before the end of the first term of 2017 for 2018, to enable schools to process applications during the second term. The department has to implement measures during the third term to accommodate all children needing placement in 2018.
The deadline for applications for 2018 enrolment at schools is Friday 24 March. The deadline applies in particular to children who are entering Grade 1 or Grade 8 in 2018, and children who are changing schools. School admissions opened on Monday 6 February for all public schools and will close on Friday 24 March.
The WCED stated in a press release that it is important for schools and the education department to know as soon as possible how many learners they have to cater for, so that they can plan ahead.
Parents or guardians are urged to apply to more than one school at a time.
Once they have applied, the school will let them know in writing whether or not their application has been successful. If their child has been accepted, parents or guardians need to confirm in writing.
Schools unable to accommodate a child will refer parents or guardians to the relevant WCED district office, so district officials can help them find a place for their child.
Copies of the following documentation are required with their application: a certified copy of their child’s birth certificate, proof of residence or work address, an immunisation card for Grade 1 (if their child is starting primary school), a transfer card or the latest report for pupils who have already been to school as well as study permits for legal immigrants.
School is compulsory for all children from age seven till the last day of school in the year the learner turns 15 or completes Grade 9.
