The South African
Grade R learners NOT guaranteed placement, says Gauteng department
The Gauteng Department of Education has warned parents that Grade R learners are NOT guaranteed placements for the 2026 school year.
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Gauteng Grade R Learners Not Automatically Placed for Grade 1: Applications Still Required
Gauteng Education Department Clarifies Grade 1 Admissions for Grade R Learners Johannesburg, South Africa – The Gauteng Department of Education has issued an important clarification regarding the admission process for learners currently in Grade R who are set to enter Grade 1. Contrary to potential assumptions, Grade R learners will not be automatically placed into Grade 1 for the upcoming academic year. A spokesperson for the department, speaking at a press briefing on July 20, 2025, emphasized that parents and guardians of Grade R learners must still actively apply for Grade 1 placement. This application can be made either at the child's current school or at any other school of their choice. "There is no automatic placement for learners transitioning from Grade R to Grade 1," the official stated. "Parents have to apply, they have to comply, and they have to do everything that every parent would be doing to get their children admitted in our public schools for Grade 1 and 8." The announcement serves as a critical reminder for parents to adhere to the established online admissions procedures to secure a place for their children in public schools. The department urges all affected families to complete the necessary applications to avoid any complications with their child's schooling.
