Скачать или смотреть WCED News - January 2026

The 2026 school year is in full swing!

On 14 January, 1.2 million learners headed back to school, including 73 000 Grade Rs, 102 000 Grade 1s, and 97 000 new Grade 8s starting high school.

Celebrations in the province started early after achieving the best matric results ever, with an 88.2% pass rate — including South Africa’s top matriculant and top LSEN candidate.

These outstanding achievers were celebrated at a special awards ceremony held at Leeuwenhof, the Premier’s Residence.

And finally, a huge congratulations to Charnelle Arendse from Belmor Primary, who has been named one of the best teachers in the world!

For these stories and more, visit westercape.gov.za/education