A plea or request to the Provincial Minister of Education (hereinafter “the Minister”) to overturn a decision taken by a school to refuse admission to a learner.

Who can submit an admission appeal to the office of the Minister?

• A parent/guardian.
• The learner; or
• Someone appointed or designated by the parent and/or learner, to act on their behalf.

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When can an admission appeal be submitted to the office of the Minister?

• Grades 1 and 8 open online on 1 August 2024.

Grades R and all other grades open online on 1 October 2024.

Where can I submit an admission appeal?

1. Engage with the school to make sure you have explored all internal options and understand the school’s reasons for refusing the learner’s admission.
2. Submit your appeal by:
   • using the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) online admissions platform, click on “Admission Appeal” and follow the prompts; or
   • directing an email to [email protected]; or
   • posting or hand-delivering a hard copy appeal to the office of the Minister.

    

What information should I include in my admission appeal?

1. Name and CEMIS number of the learner;
2. Name of the school whose decision is being appealed, and the grade applied to;
3. Reasons why you feel the school’s decision should be overturned by the Minister;
4. Any sections in the school’s admission policy that support your appeal; and
5. Any evidence you want to submit.

Where do I find a copy of the school’s admission policy?

All school admission policies are available on the online admission platform of the WCED; select the link “school profile” to locate a particular policy.

How soon can I expect the outcome of my admission appeal?

The time period will differ from appeal to appeal, depending on the complexity of the matter and responsiveness of parties involved. The process is also subject to an investigation, which may take some time.

What do I do if my admission appeal is upheld?

Contact the school and make admission arrangements as soon as possible. Present the school with a copy of the signed outcome of your admission appeal.

What do I do if my admission appeal is dismissed?

Check with your local WCED district office for assistance with alternative placement at a suitable school where spaces are still available.

What can I do if I do not agree with the Minister’s decision regarding the outcome of my admission appeal?

The Minister’s decision on an admission appeal is final and can only be overturned by a competent court in review proceedings.

Who do I contact if I have questions regarding the progress of my appeal?

Use one of the following options:

• Tel. no.: 021 483 6574; or
• Email: [email protected]

Online Admission Appeals: All further communication of logged cases must be done on the Online Admission System.