Every January, after all the “Compliments of the new season” messages and the ink, has dried on that serviette you used for your resolutions, you recall that there is that responsibility to your children of school-going age – to get them all the things they need for the new school year. If you have a child who is starting their schooling journey, before the excitement and sometimes tears from both parent and child on the first day, prior to that there is the planning for the years ahead and also the search for a good school.
The Gauteng Department of Education introduced a new system, the Admissions Online Application system last year and following some hiccups, it seemed as though everything was sorted. The idea behind this new system was to allow parents to find schools for their children well ahead of time and also receive feedback on their applications. The manual process was being phased out to make room for a more convenient, streamlined way for parents to find and apply for their schools of choice, and for the GDE and schools to accept new pupils.
When the academic year started a few weeks ago, many parents were left very frustrated and angry that they had not been able to place their children. The GDE confirmed on Tuesday 17 January that the number of unplaced learners was sitting at 19 913, for both online and walk-in applications. As one of the parents whose child was counted in that figure, once the anger has dissipated, you are left with the realisation that your child or children may not be going to school this year. What do you do?
- Firstly, it’s important to remember that not all hope is lost and there are some options available to you.
- Be mindful of the level of panic you show in the presence your child, because they are very perceptive – they will realise something is wrong and you need to be prepared to answer the questions that follow, one of them possibly being “When am I starting school?” or “Which school am I going to?”
- If you used the Gauteng Department of Education online application system to register your child into a school, the department has asked parents to be patient with them as they have found that some schools in various Districts in the province still have space available. The GDE has advised that they are doing their best to finalise placement for pupils throughout the province and will contact parents when they have an update for them, alternatively, parents can go to the school which they applied to.
Let's take a look at some other options:
Homeschooling
We have heard of it, may or may not know someone who has tried it for their children or vaguely remember an interview on the radio about it. It is looking like an option for you right now. Homeschooling in South Africa is legal and there are some things that you need to get done first, such as the paperwork before you can start with homeschooling your child. There is a lot of information on the internet that is specific to SA, pay a visit to the Department of Basic Education website to ensure that you are on the right track and understand what it entails to homeschool. Also be sure to check that any of the options that you consider are above board in terms of being recognised by the education department.
Tutoring / Au Pair
If you’re a working parent and leaving your job is not quite an option for you, then perhaps finding a tutor or au pair with the relevant knowledge and qualifications would be suitable for you. There are many organisations that offer these services but it is worth doing the necessary background checks to ensure that your child is receiving the best, as well as that they are safe. Also consider the matter of the language of instruction, factoring in when your child does enter the schooling system and later on tertiary education, that they may need to learn in a language that is not their mother tongue.
Former teachers and homeschool parent group
It is advisable to consider hiring a retired professional teacher who has the experience and knowledge needed to work with your child. It would be worthwhile to also reach out and find yourself a homeschooling support group, whether you yourself are teaching your child or have a tutor or teacher assisting you.
You may find that there are many homeschool parents who are quite knowledgeable whether through their own studies, work or interest in certain subjects such as Science, Mathematics, Accounting, Languages and other subjects. This network can help your child with extra lessons if and when necessary, and also help you when you need to assist your child with their homework.
Once you have decided on what option you would like and what works for you and your child, it’s important that as a family you all contribute to ensuring that your child does well. This includes forming new habits in the home: reading more, less TV time, incorporating educational games and finding activities that can be done together, for example, visits to Sci-Bono Discovery Centre – and yes, adults will enjoy it too!
Other resources that you can have a look at:
“Education is a human right with immense power to transform. On its foundation rest the cornerstones of freedom, democracy and sustainable human development” – Kofi Anan
You might want to read more about home schooling and if it will work for you.
