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Today is the first day of the fourth and final term in the school calendar. The final term is extremely important for all our learners, educators and officials. Our matrics are now preparing for the final matric exams which are just two weeks away (22 October).

Our learners, schools and officials have poured enormous effort into preparing for these exams and we are confident that the class of 2012 will do us proud. The department has now wrapped up its special support for matrics, which included a Spring School in most districts during the September holiday.

It is now up to our matrics to stick to their study plans as they prepare for their exams. Other highlights of the fourth term include the department’s own literacy and numeracy tests for learners in Grades 3, 6 and 9.

The systemic tests will take place from 10 to 23 October and will provide the department with the information we need to strengthen literacy and numeracy teaching in our primary schools and language and mathematics in our high schools.

Schools and the department are also wrapping up their planning for 2013 this term. We are currently monitoring, for example, the availability of textbooks and workbooks, furniture, key infrastructure, enrolment and timetables for 2013. More information on our planning for 2013 will be announced shortly. 

We will also publish our fifth vacancy list for the year on Monday, 8 October, as we continue to ensure that we have teachers in permanent positions next year. While we have a busy term ahead, I am confident that we will all continue to support and encourage our learners in this province by ensuring that they receive quality tuition with the shared goal of improving their outcomes and opportunities.