[TAKE NOTE] School admissions for 2019 are now open
The Department of Education officially opened its admissions for learners in public schools for the academic year 2019.
POLOKWANE – “This process began on Friday, 20 April and will end on until 31 May,” Samson Mabunda, Spokesperson for the Department, said. “It is the responsibility of the department, parents, guardians and caregivers, to ensure every child of school-going age is in school on the first day of the 2019 school year. This is why we urge those responsible to apply for admission as per the stipulated dates and not wait for the last minute.”
The department is calling on all whose children will go to school for the first time, or are moving to a new school next year, to obtain application forms from the nearest public school. These forms must be completed and returned without delay, particularly in urban areas where the demand for space is high.
This process will enable the department to plan properly to what resources need to be be put in place for the academic year.
Mabunda added parents will be informed about the status of their application by the end of June.
Documents required to register a child:
• Birth certificate or acceptable proof of birth.
• Immunisation card.
• Transfer card.
• Last report card.
Documents for non-South African citizens:
• Study or work permit.
• Temporary or permanent residence permit from the Department of Home Affairs.
• Evidence to show there is application for permission to stay in South Africa.
In terms of the Schools Act of South Africa (Sasa) Act 84 of 1996 as amended, children for Gr 1 can only be registered if they are five years old, turning six on or before 30 June of the year they are admitted to Gr 1. Those who are four, turning five on or before 30 June 2019, must be admitted into Gr R. The constitutional obligation of the department to ensure all children get access to education and to accommodate all children of school-going age still remains.
“It is important for all parents, guardians and the community as a whole to take part in the registration of their children. The department will monitor learner admissions closely and protect the rights of learners at all times.”
