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Thousands of Grade 1 learners started their new school journey on Wednesday 18 January.
And among those learners were the Grade 1 classes from Kleinberg Primary in Ocean View.
School principal Denzil van Graan said the learners were eager to start their first day of school.
“Grade 1 learners of 2023 were in high spirits and ready to start their educational journey with much enthusiasm.
“Hardly any tears were shed as parents said their goodbyes.
“Our Grade 1 learners are ready and eager to learn and we wish them the best of luck for the year ahead.”
He added that the day went smoothly which can be attributed to an orientation day.
“One parent laughing saying that she thought her child would at least cry and show that she’s going to miss mommy.
“Parents kissed and hugged their kids and it seemed that it was the parents that had difficulty letting go.
“I’m glad that day one went without any hiccups and I’m grateful to the administration clerks at the school and Western Cape Education Department (WCED) officials for supporting parents to complete required enrollment documents.”
The five Grade 1 classes consist of four English classes and one Afrikaans.
Imaan Michaels, the Grade 1 Afrikaans home language teacher, said learners settled in quickly.
“As a novice teacher, I was nervous and excited to meet my learners. The learners settled quicker than I thought and I was overjoyed that they confidently took their places, ready for day one.
“There was no crying and once they were comfortable in their seats we started the day programme. I’m excited and looking forward to a very rewarding experience as a first year class teacher.”
Meanwhile, in a statement, Western Cape Minister of Education David Maynier welcomed more than 1,2 million learners, of which 92 000 were in Grade 1.
It is the first year since the Covid-19 pandemic that schools are opening with full attendance and regular timetables.
“The WCED has placed 99,2% Grade 1 and 8 learners this year and completed 561 additional classrooms in time for the first day of school and an additional 1 143 teaching posts for the new classrooms.”
It is the first year since the Covid-19 pandemic that schools are opening with full attendance and regular timetables.
However, Maynier pointed out that the impact of learning losses, caused by the pandemic, would be felt for many years to come.
“We will therefore continue to support our teachers who are doing the hard work of getting our learners back on track and we thank them for the love and care that they show the children of the Western Cape.”
Premier Alan Winde’s message to learners this year is “be kind to yourself”.
“I urge you all to work hard but also be kind to yourselves and your fellow learners. Take pride in your school and do your very best.
“And to our parents; thank you for being our partners in securing our learners’ futures by registering on time.
“To our teachers, other school staff and Western Cape Education Department officials, I commend you for the important work that you do in offering our learners dignified places of teaching and learning.”
