“Today, most of the provinces high schools will begin their internal Grade 12 June examinations. I would like to extend my best wishes to each and every Grade 12 learner during this period,” said Western Cape Education Minister Donald Grant on Monday.

“These examinations are very important as they provide learners with the opportunity to learn more about the standards required for their final National Senior Certificate Examinations, as well as, determine their academic performance for the year so far.”

Grant said that learners who find that they are struggling in certain areas must not be discouraged.

“They can be assured that the WCED is doing all it can to help them improve in all subject areas,” he said.

“We encourage all learners to take part in our winter holiday programmes or after school tutorial sessions. Learners can also consult their “Tips for success” booklets for further studying advice and planning materials. We encourage all Grade 12 learners to make use of every single day to work hard to ensure that they pass Grade 12 at the end of year, as passing matric is a prerequisite in ensuring that Grade 12 learners can be become full and productive citizens."

Grant said that the WCED was working closely with schools to monitor the impact of the rail strike, particularly its effect on the Grade 12 examinations.

“We are working with schools on case by case basis, monitoring attendance figures and disruptions to the examinations. Contingency plans will be put in place, if necessary, to ensure that Grade 12 learners are able to write their examinations.”

“However, initial reports indicate that there have been no major disruptions to these examinations but we continue to urge parents to arrange alternative transport to ensure that learners are able to attend school. The provincial government has a plan in place to deal with the strike and is working closely with taxi operators and bus companies to provide extra transport, so hopefully the impact on learners will be minimal.”

For enquiries, contact Bronagh Casey:  072 724 1422 or brcasey@pgwc.gov.za.

Visit our website: http://wced.wcape.gov.za