Northlands Primary School learners Mackayla Johnson and Ezra Ralph celebrate their first day of school in style. Photo: Shiraz Habbib
LEARNERS across the province began the 2026 school year on Wednesday (January 14) with little fuss.
While educators and school-based staff had already returned to school a few days ago, it was the turn of the learners, including thousands of Grade Ones, beginning their school journey.
Last week the KZN Department of Education held an MEC Management Meeting (MMM) which was aimed at ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted start to the 2026 academic year when schools reopen.
Here are some photos we captured of Grade Ones returning to school.
Katleho Nala and Lunabile Ngcebetsha have already made friends.Educator Mandy Dragt helps Eli Geekie with one of the lessons.Northlands Primary School Grade One learners Amara Balgobind, Jordan Course and Vihaan Govender give the new school year the thumbs up.Chelsea Preparatory School: Bailey-Kimble is excited to start Grade One.Chelsea Preparatory School: Raphael Tuck keeps busy by colouring in.Chelsea Preparatory School: Reed Hudson is all smiles.Chelsea Preparatory School: Vez’okuhle Dladla and Kara Marais make friends on their first day of schoolChelsea Preparatory School: Thingo Gwala is happy to begin Grade One.
Shiraz has been a community journalist for the last 12 years and has a specific interest in everything sports. He holds a Bachelor of Arts undergrad degree and honours degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal where he majored in Communications, Anthropology and English.
