With just days to go, matric learners across the West Coast are gearing up for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, which begin on Tuesday 13 October.

With these exams marking an important milestone and stepping stone in their lives, West Coast matriculants say they are well prepared for what lies ahead.

For Wikus Redelinghuys of Hopefield High School, the countdown is bittersweet. “Only 30 days before I say goodbye to the familiar school routine, but more importantly, only 30 days left of the special bonds I have formed with my friends, classmates and teachers,” he said.

Redelinghuys said his preparation is centred on past papers, getting enough sleep, planning his time and staying active through exercise. “Mathematics is definitely the subject that challenges me the most, so that is where I am trying to put in the extra effort,” he said.

After matric, he plans to study Building Construction Management at CPUT, with the long-term goal of starting his own business.

Kristi Coetzee of Vredenburg High School said the reality of the final examinations has not quite sunk in yet. “It still feels a little unreal that these are our final exams and that school is almost over,” she said.

She is preparing by summarising her work and completing past papers, but said managing the examination timetable remains one of her biggest concerns. “There is a lot of work to get through, and sometimes it can feel overwhelming trying to balance everything,” Coetzee said.

Despite the pressure, she remains focused on achieving good results and continuing her studies next year. “I just want to give my best and finish the year knowing that I worked as hard as I could,” she added.

At Steynville Secondary School in Piketberg, Jayden Joubert said he feels relieved as the final stretch approaches. “I feel relieved that we are getting closer to the end, but there is still a lot of work to do,” he said.

Jayden said he prefers studying at night, when he feels most focused, and that Geography is one of the subjects requiring particular attention. “There is so much content in Geography, so remembering everything is probably one of my biggest concerns,” he said.

With his sights set on becoming a firefighter after matric, Jayden said keeping his goal in mind helps him remain focused. “I know what I want to do after school, so that gives me something to work towards,” he said.

For Masodzi Sphelmandla of New Vredenburg High School, the countdown brings a mixture of anxiety and confidence. “I am feeling very anxious, but I know I will pull through,” she said.

Sphelmandla studies for around three hours a day and is aiming for distinctions before pursuing a Law degree at university next year.

Jarnick Moses from Louwville High School shared with Weslander that he feels nervous, but also excited to finish school.

“I study early in the morning and at night. I make summaries and work through past papers. My goal is simply to pass. I don’t need distinctions. I want to become a traffic officer one day and inspire others to show that it is never too late to achieve your dreams,” he added.

Jaco Londt, Western Cape Minister of Education, said he knows how stressful this time can be for learners. “We encourage those who are struggling, or adults who are concerned about a learner’s mental health, to reach out to the Western Cape Education Department for help.”

School staff can seek guidance from our district support teams, and our Safe Schools Hotline [0800 45 46 47 toll free] can connect learners with help from our sister departments and Non-Government Organisations.

To the matriculants, Londt said: This is your moment. Breathe, take it in, and put in the necessary time and work. There will be time for celebrations later. For now, remain disciplined and focused; your hard work will pay off. The Western Cape is supporting you all the way,” Londt added.