With learners around the country heading back to school on January 9, admissions to schools remained a concern for many.
Grade One placements were highly sought-after and many parents lined up outside school gates in an attempt to get their children into school.
Actonville Primary School was among the schools that saw scores of parents lining up.
“Some of the parents are bringing stationery and paying school fees but most are here for admissions,” explained Actonville Primary School principal Vanessa Moodley.
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“I have told the parents I will see to them after 2pm as at this time we need to give due focus to our learners.
“We are helping where we can but if we are full they (parents) have to go to the Department of Education.
“We have limited desks and chairs and these places have been filled.”
Actonville Primary received 598 applications but was only able to admit 152 learners.
Neighbouring Pioneer Primary received 654 applications and admitted 163 learners.
Benoni Junior Primary School, in Western Extension, received 764 applications and admitted 200 learners.
Spokesperson for the Gauteng Department of Education Steve Mabona said while they applauded parents who applied on time for Grade One and Eight online for 2019, the department received thousands of late applications that posed many challenges.
He added that the department is appealing to parents to accept placement offers by the district as these are the only available spaces.
“The department received a total of 282 823 early applications for the 2019 academic year and of these, 266 613 (94.3 per cent) are placed while 16 210 (5.7 per cent) applicants have not responded to offers or calls to submit documents,” said Mabona.
“The department opened for late online applications on November 28, with only 1 068 schools available for application.
“On the same day, 945 of 2 013 schools with Grades One and Eight reached capacity and were no longer available for any further late applications.
“As at January 7, a total of 205 schools reached capacity and 863 schools still have available spaces for immediate placement.
“The department received a total of 24 228 late applications, and of these 19 803 applied by December 15 while 2 402 applied during school holidays.
“We have successfully placed 8 090 (33.4 per cent) who have submitted documents, while 16 138 (66.6 per cent) are provisionally placed and will be finalised when documents are submitted.
“Parents are urged to submit the required documents to finalise placements.
“Furthermore, parents are advised to submit the required documents (birth certificate, ID copies, proof of address etc) immediately after placement.
“All districts are operating as walk-in centres to assist parents with applications from January 7 – 31.
“Parents are encouraged to visit the district offices for assistance.”
The most common challenges reported at walk-in centres include the following:
• A large number of parents are new applicants.
• Follow-ups on appeal outcomes.
• Existing applicants trying to re-apply.
• Late applicants requesting transfers to schools that are no longer available in the system due to capacity. Applicants will not be transferred to schools that are no longer available in the App. What you find in the App, is what is available.
• Relocations and placement in inner grades.
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