Pupil placement starts for 2018

The Gauteng Department of Education is starting to place pupils whose parents applied online for the 2018 academic year.

“Parents will receive offers of placement by SMS and have seven days to accept or reject the offer. Parents are urged to respond to the placement offer by accepting or rejecting it,” the GDE said.

“However, not all parents will receive an SMS before the end of August. Districts are working with schools to sign off and verify final list of admission per school. This process was delayed by the winter school holidays.

“Parents are urged not to panic if they have not received an SMS in the next three weeks. However, they should contact the district if no SMS notification has been received after three weeks from today.”

The department said those whose applications were declined could lodge an objection with the district. The objection form was obtainable on their website, www. education.gpg.gov.za, or from schools.

The department added: “A total of 12 684 applications were made by non-South African citizens. When incomplete documents are submitted and the parent submits proof of application from the Department of Home Affairs, schools will accept the pupils provisionally.

“The above provision is applicable to both South African and non-South African citizens. Schools will keep a database of undocumented learners and parents.”

Gauteng MEC of Education Panyaza Lesufi, pictured, and the department commended parents for increased use of the online admissions system.

The department added that it strongly condemned the rejection of a school principal in Klipspruit West on the basis of race.

“This action is strongly condemned, as it runs against the non-racial principles of our society.

“Educators are appointed on the basis of qualification and experience.” – ANA