Severe weather has left a trail of disruption across the Western Cape, forcing several schools to close and damaging infrastructure in others.

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) confirmed that 11 schools, mainly in the Cape Winelands, Eden, and Central Karoo districts will remain closed for the rest of the week, as access roads to these schools remain blocked.

WCED MEC David Maynier confirmed that the affected learners will be given the opportunity to catch up on all missed academic work.

“We expect that they will remain closed for the rest of the week and will make arrangements for learners to catch up the missed schoolwork,” Maynier added.

Maynier said that although many schools have reopened, around 60 have reported damage and are still being assessed for urgent repairs.

“We also have about 60 schools that have reported damage requiring assistance from the department, and these are currently being assessed for repairs. These schools have, however, made arrangements to be open,” he said.