Steps to take if your child has not been placed at a school

by Zintle Mdaka

In South Africa, parents are always advised by the Department of Education to register their children on an online portal as soon as the registration period opens. 

This is to avoid the stress that comes with last minute applications at a time when they are supposed to start their school year.

This process has been in place for years, with some children being placed in schools that are far from their home, while others remain on waiting lists despite registering early.

Moreover, some children unfortunately end up without a school at the start of the year. Here’s what you as a parent can do when you find yourself in this situation.

UCT Online High School suggests that the parent should contact the admissions office.

“You also have options during the public high school applications process. If you make your application on time and include a minimum of three schools in your application, chances are you’ll be just fine.

“Problems with public school placements are mainly from the thousands of late applications received by provincial departments of education. When parents and guardians wait until the last minute, departments don’t know what numbers to plan for.”

Here are the steps you need to take if this happens to you and your child.

The first step is to search for the unplaced learners list by contacting the schools you applied to and telling them you still need a place. They may be able to accommodate you.

At the same time, take to Google and search out other “schools near me”, and make contact with other schools in your area.

Sometimes, parents have preferred schools for their children. If that specific school has not replied to your application or they have rejected the child, the parent can appeal their decision.

Here is how to appeal:

  1. First, you need to appeal directly to the school. Ensure they know you are still looking for a place for your child.
  2. Ask them to reconsider your application and place you on the school’s waiting list.
  3. If the school governing body (SGB) is still unwilling – or unable – to place your child, ask for a copy of their decision.
  4. You then need to send this SGB report to your provincial MEC for Education for review. You will also send them your application and the supporting documents you supplied.

 

Also see: 250 000 foreign pupils in SA schools – minister tells Parliament