The final bell has officially rung, marking the end of the third academic term and the start of the school holidays.

While thousands of learners are celebrating the end of what may have been a stressful term, thousands of matric learners will be using the school break to prepare for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, which are just 20 days away.

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) says more than 71 000 full-time NSC candidates are expected to sit for the exams in the province.

The examinations are set to commence on Tuesday, 13 October 2026.

Western Cape Education Minister Jaco Londt says there are several resources available to matriculants to assist them as they prepare for their exams.

“Our matrics will be hard at work attending #BackOnTrack Spring School extra classes. We hope they use the time well, remain focused and disciplined, and get enough sleep so that they are ready for the final hurdle of their school careers. We want to encourage matriculants to access the support resources available on the WCED website.”

Londt also called on parents to support their children during this stressful period.

“Now more than ever, our learners require a calm and supportive environment.”

Londt further appealed to residents to help safeguard schools during the holiday break and report any suspicious activity to police.

“While the WCED has subsidised security at some schools in high-risk areas, we rely on you, the residents living around our school properties, to be our eyes and ears. Please keep a close watch on the school closest to you during the holidays and report any suspicious activity to the South African Police Service immediately.”

 

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