| 1. |
The Western Cape Education Department is committed to ensuring the maximum use of teaching and learning time. It is, therefore, the responsibility of each school to protect teaching time and support learning for the full 199 days of this year, in accordance with the National Learner Attendance Policy. |
| 2. |
All school- and education district office staff are requested to note the following: |
| 2.1 |
It is the responsibility of each school to plan its school programme for the periods during and after the examinations until the last day of the school term, and to inform all learners, parents and district offices accordingly. |
| 2.2 |
Schools which offer Grades 4 to 11 are reminded that no examinations may start before 27 May 2013 and 11 November 2013. However, schools may apply to the district director for permission to start practical examinations earlier in certain subjects. |
| 2.3 |
No school is allowed to close earlier than 13:00 during the period when examinations are written. In arranging the earlier closing time, the safety and transport of learners must be considered. It is, therefore, important that parents are informed beforehand so that they are able to make alternative arrangements. |
| 2.4 |
All learners are required to attend school throughout the examination period, with the exception of Grade 12 learners, who will be entitled to 5 days off for study purposes before the start of the final National Senior Certificate examinations. |
| 2.5 |
Schools may not inform learners that it is each learner’s decision whether or not to come to school after the examinations have ended for the term or when they are not writing examinations or tests. |
| 2.6 |
All teachers are expected to be at school for the full school day each day (35 hours per week) during the period when examinations are written, irrespective of whether they have invigilation duties or not. |
| 3. |
Education district officials will monitor the implementation of these directives. Principals and school governing bodies are requested to pay special attention to the drawing up of their programmes for the periods referred to above, so that valuable time for learning is not lost. |
SIGNED: J H LYNERS
DEPUTY DIRECTOR-GENERAL: INSTITUTION DEVELOPMENT & COORDINATION
DATE: 2013:04:16
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