With final exams just around the corner Weslander wishes all matric students in its distribution area the best of luck as they enter the final stretch of their schooling.

From Vredenburg, Saldanha and Langebaan to St Helena Bay, Velddrif, Piketberg, Hopefield and surrounding towns matrics have worked hard throughout the year to prepare for this moment.

The 2026 National Senior Certificate exams start on Tuesday 13 October, with more than 71 000 full-time candidates expected to write in the Western Cape.

Western Cape Education Minister David Maynier has encouraged matrics to remain focused and disciplined, get enough sleep and make use of the academic support available to them.

“Now more than ever our learners require a calm and supportive environment,” Maynier said, while also thanking teachers, tutors, school leadership and parents for supporting matriculants during this final stretch.

Weslander editor Alida Buckle reminds matriculants that it is normal to feel nervous. “Good preparation, focus and sufficient rest can make a big difference. Every hour of study you have put in will now pay off. Stay focused, you’re almost at the finish line.”

From the Weslander team to every matric: “Believe in yourself, read each question carefully and work calmly through every paper. Do not let a difficult question shake your confidence. Take it one paper at a time.”

The newspaper wishes the class of 2026 calmness, confidence and success.

“You are almost there!”

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