The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) welcomed its learners, staff and teachers back to school on Tuesday 9 July.
It was a wet and cold start to the school term with teaching and learning resuming at most schools, barring five, which were officially closed, including Kleinrivier Primary School near Vredendal.
Sylvia Goliath, principal of the school, said the WCED had been very supportive and assistive. “The WCED has been making arrangements and more are being made as repair work is underway,” said Goliath. The schools were closed as a result of either flooding, inaccessibility to access routes and damage to the school building.
According to Bronagh Hammond, spokesperson of the WCED, a total a 82 schools have reported damage to schools. “The majority of cases are minor, with 31 cases regarded as more serious. This includes schools where roof sheeting was blown off.”
The WCED infrastructure sub-directorate has been assessing the damages and prioritising repair work based on immediate risks and needs. Repair work has already begun on some projects. We appreciate the efforts of the teams especially under the continuous wet weather conditions.”
Hammond said schools have cordoned off areas that are affected and are making alternative arrangements where required.
“The WCED is having continuous engagements with the Weather Services and Provincial Disaster Management Committee. We again appeal to communities to discontinue spreading false information. Parents are to please address any queries with their schools directly or visit the WCED media page for updates.”
