Today marks the beginning of the 2015 academic year and schools are currently welcoming hundreds of learners. The first school bell of the year has rung just hours ago, sending its ringing sound waves echoing in empty classrooms as they were about to be filled with eager, excited and nervous students. Both new and returning student pupils were encouraged to gear up and aim for excellence, during the welcoming assembly. Parents say they have high hopes for the year ahead and that education is their only ticket to a better future. Pictured are learners from Estcourt Primary and ML Sultan Primary schools.