The Western Cape has officially kicked off the 2025 academic year, with a remarkable 1.2 million learners beginning their school journey. Among them are 107,000 eager Grade 1 students and 100,000 Grade 8 learners, all excited to take their first steps in the classroom. This year also marks a significant milestone in the region’s education landscape, as the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has opened nine new schools, adding 265 classrooms across the province.
The addition of these schools aims to alleviate overcrowding and improve educational access, with six schools already operational from January, providing 180 new classrooms, while three more schools will be opening in March, bringing an additional 85 classrooms into the fold. This expansion reflects the province’s ongoing efforts to accommodate the increasing demand for quality education.
The WCED is also proud to report that 98% of the learners who applied for Grade 1 and Grade 8 placements have been successfully placed in schools. As of January 14, 2025, a total of 118,914 learners were assigned their spots, leaving just 2%—around 2,478 students—still in the process of being placed. Despite this impressive placement rate, the department has encountered some challenges, including late applications. In the first few days of the new year, over 300 additional applications for Grade 1 and Grade 8 positions have been received, making it imperative for parents to ensure their contact details are updated with the department.
For parents who have not yet applied, the WCED urges swift action to avoid delays in securing a place for their children. Those who have already applied but have not yet received confirmation are advised to stay in touch with their local district offices and make sure they are available to respond when a spot becomes available. The WCED emphasized the importance of communication, as delays in reaching parents could lead to missed opportunities for placement.
As the new school year kicks into full gear, the Western Cape Education Department remains committed to ensuring every learner receives the education they deserve. With new classrooms, new schools, and a continued focus on meeting the needs of families, the region is off to a strong start in 2025.
