2021 learner registration now open

Staff Reporter

The Free State Department of Education says registration for learners starting school next year or those transferring to other schools is now open.
The registration will be open until the end of October.
“The registration is open for learners who will be admitted to schools for the first time, those starting high school and even those changing schools,” the department said in a statement issued by spokesperson Howard Ndaba.
According to the statement, these are learners starting Grade R, Grade 1, Grade 8 and those changing schools in different grades.
Admission will be on first-come, first-served basis.
Application forms are available at all public schools in the province.
The department said learners seeking to be enrolled in different grades will be considered in line with the age requirements and will therefore be expected to produce a birth certificate, parent’s identity document and citizenship, school report, guardianship documents, immunisation cards and proof of sibling relationship if needed.
“The department is committed to allowing all children access to basic education and no child will be denied his or her inalienable right to education enshrined in the constitution of the country,” the statement said.
The department also encouraged parents to apply for the admission of their children before the closing date to avoid unnecessary delays and the inconvenience of being placed in schools that are too far.
“This will also curb the influx of parents presenting themselves at schools seeking admission on the first day of schooling,” it said.
“This tendency hampers the commencement of teaching . . . and the entire academic programme of the year.”
Applying on time also allows the department enough time to address any disputes.
“This will be in the best interest of the learners who will be placed on time and learning and teaching kicks off on the first day of school,” it said.