The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) is sending a message to all parents, urging them to enrol their children early – and to apply at several schools.
Parents whose children will enter Grade 1 and Grade 8 next year or are changing schools should hand in their applications no later than Friday 24 March 2017. The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) said it is experiencing an increasing demand for school placements and had to set the deadline early to be able to process all the applications and accommodate all children. But they cannot promise to immediately place those whose applications were handed in late.
Admissions for public schools in the Western Cape opened yesterday. Parents will be informed of the school's decision in writing by 3 June and those wishing to accept the placement must confirm by Friday 30 June.
"We urge parents to confirm acceptance by this deadline to avoid 'double parking', where learners are enrolled at more than one school, or appear on several waiting lists," the WCED said in an official statement. "This will make it easier for schools and the department to place learners who relocate unexpectedly at the end of the year, and late arrivals."
It adds that it is absolutely vital that parents apply at a handful of schools as the Department can't guarantee places at every learner's chosen school.
Remember that no public school may ask you a registration or upfront fee. To read more about school admissions policies for South African public schools, including catchment areas, click here.
Have you heard of parents bribing the school or making large donations to secure a place? Read here and let us know: School admissions: how far would you go?
If your child is still not placed at a school for 2016, read what to do here.