The following grades are confirmed to go back to school on 6 July 2020:
- Pre-Grade R;
- Grade R;
- Grade 1;
- Grade 2;
- Grade 3;
- Grade 6;
- Grade 10;
- Grade 11;
The announcement was made by basic education minister Angie Motshekga on Wednesday.
Other learners expected to return on 6 July 2020:
- Schools of Skill: Years 2 and 3
- Schools for Learners with Severe Intellectual Disabilities (“SID”): Grades R, 1, 2, 3 and final year (Occupational);
- Schools with Learners with Severe and Profound Intellectual Disabilities (“LSPID”): Years 1-3; and
- Schools with autistic learners: Junior Group (below 13 years) and final year (18 years and above)
Motshekga said the department was working hard to make sure all schools are Covid-19 compliant before receiving learners.
“We will continue to work hard in schools to make sure that we protect our learners, teachers and employees within schools,” she said.
“It is important that during schools hours and after we stick to basics such was wearing masks, washing hands, etc.”
She urged members of the public to refrain from visiting schools “as that also increased the risk of more infections”.
The department said schools may be allowed to deviate from the phased return to school in respect of specific grades or dates.
This provided that such schools comply with the minimum health, safety and social distancing measures and Covid-19 requirements.
It said only schools that complied with minimum health, safety and social distancing measures will continue operating.
“A school or office that has failed to comply with the minimum measures will remain closed until all health, safety and social distancing measures are in place.”
