Western Cape Education MEC David Maynier has raised alarm over more than 28,000 Grade 7 learners in the province who have not yet applied for placement in Grade 8 next year, warning parents not to delay ahead of the admissions deadline.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Maynier said 28,003 learners currently in Grade 7 remain without applications for the 2027 school year, despite the province’s admissions window nearing closure.
“Parents are responsible for applying on time for a place in a school for their child, but the parents of 28,003 Grade 7 learners currently attending school in the Western Cape have not yet applied for a place in Grade 8 next year,” he said.
The on-time admissions window will close on April 14, 2026, leaving parents with just two weeks to secure placement for their children.
“We are making an urgent appeal to these parents, don’t wait,” Maynier said.
The provincial education department has processed a significant number of applications so far, with more than 125,000 submissions already received for Grades R, 1 and 8.
“So far, the parents of 125,063 children have already applied for a place in Grade R, 1 or 8 next year, and we thank these parents for making these applications their priority,” he added.
Maynier emphasised that the application process has been simplified and support structures put in place to assist parents who may struggle with online submissions.
“We have made it as easy as possible to apply, and made help available to parents who are not able to complete their applications online, so there is no reason not to apply on time,” he said.
Applications can be submitted via the Western Cape Education Department’s online platform, while assistance is available through district offices and temporary pop-up admissions sites across the province.
“Parents who need assistance can bring their required documents to one of our pop-up admissions sites. Parents can also visit their local education district office for assistance,” Maynier said.
He reiterated the urgency of the matter, warning that delays could affect placement outcomes.
“Don’t wait. Apply on time before April 14, 2026.”
The department has consistently urged early applications to better manage placement pressures and ensure all learners are accommodated ahead of the new school year.
IOL News
Wendy Dondolo
iol.co.za