Cape Town - In the wake of 2 407 teachers being cut, the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) confirmed that 477 “growth teaching” posts have been allocated, as plans are afoot for new schools and classrooms to be built this year.

Timour Hall Primary School in Plumstead is set to receive new classrooms. Picture: WCED

Education MEC, David Maynier, made the announcement after he and Premier Alan Winde visited Timour Hall Primary School in Plumstead on Wednesday, which is set to have additional classrooms built.

The department said the “growth posts” meant new teaching posts were added to accommodate additional learners in cases where new classrooms were being built.

“Through further budget reprioritisation, we are in a position to make up to 477 new growth posts available to schools with a significant increase in learner numbers in 2025, and provide staff for the new schools we have completed,” said Maynier.

“Our Head of Department has sent a letter to schools in this regard.

“The allocation of these posts will be based on the data provided by our 10th-day SNAP survey, which confirms the number of new learners that have arrived to take-up the places that they have been offered in our schools.

“While this decision will have further implications for our budget deficit, it is crucial that our new and existing schools have the resources they need to accommodate additional learners in 2025.”

Maynier reported that over 1.2 million learners were enrolled in public schools for 2025, with 107 000 being Grade 1s and 100 000 being Grade 8s.

Winde shared his message to the new Grade 1 learners:

"It is alright to be a bit nervous on your first day of school. But always know that there is someone to help you. Do not be afraid to ask for help. If you put in the effort, you will reap the rewards. However, at the same time remember to also make time to have some fun too.

“By creating a balance between your schoolwork and play time you will be able to achieve so much more.”

Maynier also gave the latest update on admissions and placement of Grade 1’s and Grade 8’s.

“Placement is in progress for 2 478, or 2%, of Grade 1 and 8 learners. However, since the start of the year, new and extremely late applications have been received for over 300 Grade 1 and 8 learners for the current school year,” Maynier said.

“We understand that this is a stressful and anxious period for parents who are waiting for a place, and we are asking parents to work with us as we try to accommodate their children as soon as possible.

“We urge any parent who has not yet applied for the 2025 school year to do so immediately at their education district office.”

District office details are available here: wcedonline.westerncape.gov.za/admissions-officials

Cape Argus