At least 99 percent of Grade 1 and 8 learners have already been placed at a school for the 2023 academic year. This translates to more than 111 000 learners.

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) says a further 680 learners still needs to be placed. In comparison to last year this time, more learners have been placed at a school.

The WCED vowed to leave no stone unturned in their efforts to find placement for Grade 1 and 8 learners.

Oftentimes, the department is confronted with issues of parents applying late, or only doing so in the new academic year. This in turn places pressure on the system and results in learners falling behind in their schooling.