The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has confirmed its readiness for the 2026 school year, with schools scheduled to reopen to learners on Wednesday, 14 January. Educators and school-based staff will return earlier, on Monday, 12 January, to finalise preparations and ensure classrooms are ready for teaching and learning.
The department stated that its planning and logistics processes remain on track throughout the province.
“The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) is prepared and ready for the start of the 2026 school year,” the department said.
Focus on learners’ school development and parental role
According to the department, the first days of school play a vital role in setting learners on a path toward long-term success.
It noted that “the beginning of a new school year sees hundreds of thousands of young people starting their learning journey, which is the first step towards independence and economic inclusion.”
The WCED emphasised the responsibility shared by parents and guardians in preparing children for school.
“By ensuring that their children are well-prepared for the school year, as well as every school day, parents are giving their children the strongest foundation for becoming independent and thriving adults,” the department said.
Parents have also been urged to stay informed by engaging with schools directly.
“We urge parents to ensure they are fully prepared for the start of the school year by reading all communication from their child’s school carefully,” the WCED added.
Textbooks and stationery delivered ahead of time
The WCED confirmed that it procured and delivered learning materials well ahead of the school reopening date. Schools placed orders for top-up textbooks between 12 and 23 May 2025, with full delivery completed by October 2025 at a cost of R58.7 million.
In addition, stationery for non-section 21 schools valued at R25.3 million was delivered by November 2025, followed by a further R31.6 million worth of goods delivered by December 2025. The department said these measures ensure that teaching and learning can begin immediately on the first day of school.
The WCED also said it remains flexible, stating, “We are also ready to respond to new requirements that may arise due to late applications or unexpected demand.”
