Grade One and Eight placements for 2026 near completion
The GDE has reassured parents that all qualifying learners will be accommodated as schools work with the department to resolve outstanding Grade One and Grade Eight placements.
The Gauteng Department of Education provided an update on the 2026 Online Admissions process for Grade One and Grade Eight learners, including progress on placements, late applications and capacity interventions.
The department stated that the majority of learners who applied for placement in Gauteng for Grade One and Grade Eight have already been successfully placed in public schools across the province.
Despite the successful placements, 1 174 learners remain unplaced, largely due to capacity pressures in high-demand areas, particularly in the Ekurhuleni and Johannesburg metros.
The department said that while placement at preferred schools may not always be immediately possible, they are actively working with schools to identify available spaces and finalise outstanding placements as a matter of urgency.
According to the department, there are 882 unplaced learners in Grade One and 292 in Grade Eight.
“We wish to reassure parents that all qualifying learners will be accommodated, and ongoing engagements with schools aim to ensure fair and timely placement,” stated the education department.
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