An apparent ‘progression policy’ allowing pupils to fail only once between grades 10 to 12.
A total of 12 049 pupils from KwaZulu-Natal were promoted to matric in accordance with national education policy, despite failing to meet the academic requirements in 2014.
In the Umzinyathi 325 pupils were ‘pushed’ through to matric this year.
Stakeholders are ‘cautiously confident’ the Department of Education will be able to help these pupils pass matric. But, are the odds against them?
Despite failing Grade 11, the pupils apparently showed ‘promise and potential’.
In the policy’s defence, an official stated pupils who fail repeatedly between grades 10 and 12 are at risk of dropping out. ‘Well-trained and motivated’ teachers are what pupils need to reap the fruits of the policy’s success.
To pass grades 10, 11 and 12, pupils must earn 40 per cent in three subjects including their home language, and 30 per cent in three other subjects.

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The number of Grade 11 pupils who were pushed through to Grade 12 this year in each education district are as follows: