A Parent’s Guide to School Admissions Setbacks in South Africa

When Your Child Wasn’t Placed

Starting school or high school is a right of passage for children and parents alike. To ensure your child is placed before the schoolyear starts can be stressful and if your child is not placed it can be daunting. Here is some helpful information to assist you in navigating this process while supporting your child.

How to cope, appeal, and support your child through one of the toughest moments in the education journey.

Each year, thousands of South African parents apply for placement in public schools – often well in advance – with high hopes that their child will be accepted into their preferred Grade 1 or Grade 8 school. But what happens when the outcome email says “unplaced” or “waitlisted” at all your choices?

It’s a gut-wrenching, frustrating, and emotionally draining experience – especially when other children in your circle have already secured spots. But you’re not alone, and more importantly: you have options.

This article will walk you through your next steps, how to appeal, what to do if your child isn’t placed in time, and how to emotionally support your child through this unsettling time.

Step-by-Step: How to Appeal to Your School of Choice

If your child hasn’t been placed, don’t panic. The placement process can take time, and not all hope is lost. Here’s what you can do:

10 Steps to Appeal or Improve Your Chances

1. Review Your Placement Status on the Online Admissions SystemLog in to your provincial department of education’s portal (e.g., GDE for Gauteng) and verify your child’s current status and waiting list codes.
2. Check Your DocumentationEnsure all your documents are uploaded and verified – proof of residence, birth certificate, ID of parent/guardian, etc.
3. Prioritise Proximity & Feeder ZonesAlthough the placement into public schools used to prioritise learners who live closer or fall within their historic feeder zones, this is no longer the case. You can still contact your closest school and appeal or advocate for your child’s acceptance.  
4. Submit an Official Appeal or ObjectionYou are legally allowed to appeal a placement decision. Contact the relevant district office or submit an objection via the online portal. Keep copies of all correspondence. Legally the education department needs to place any learner under the age of 15 unfortunately this might mean that your child is not placed at any of your preferred schools. It might just take longer to confirm placement.
5. Visit the School in Person (Politely)Request to speak to the principal or admissions officer. Be respectful, express your interest, and ask if your child can be reconsidered in the second or third round of placements.
6. Contact the District OfficeApproach your local education district to assist with manual placements or to escalate your case, especially if you haven’t received any offer by early 2026.
7. Ask to Be Put on a Waiting ListEven if the school is full now, students may withdraw, move, or change schools – opening a spot. Stay on the list and follow up regularly.
8. Request Placement in Nearby Alternative SchoolsThese may still have space, even if not your top choice. Accepting a backup school ensures your child has a seat while you continue to appeal.
9. Follow Deadlines CloselyAppeals and placements are time-sensitive. Check your provincial education department’s website frequently for key dates and announcements.
10. Stay Persistent, but PoliteRegular, respectful follow-ups (email or in person) show your commitment without burning bridges. School staff are often dealing with high volumes of requests – patience is key.

What If My Child Still Isn’t Placed by the Start of the 2026 School Year?

If January 2026 arrives and your child still doesn’t have a placement, you still have options:

• Contact Your Local Education District DailyDistricts are legally obligated to ensure every child has a seat. Walk-in services are often available in January for last-minute placements.
• Look at Private or Independent SchoolsSome private schools offer payment plans or scholarships. Reach out to smaller, lesser-known schools in your area. This might not be financially viable but there are a number of smaller, cottage schools in your area that could be a short-term option while you wait for placement in the public school system.
• Consider Homeschooling (Even Short-Term)Homeschooling is legal in SA and can be a temporary or long-term solution. You’ll need to register with the Department of Basic Education. Explore www.sahomeschoolers.org for guidance.
• Ask Community Groups for HelpJoin local parenting or school groups on Facebook or WhatsApp. Other parents often share tips on available seats or little-known schools.
• Speak to a Legal Aid Organisation if NecessaryIf you believe your child was unfairly denied, reach out to Section27 or Equal Education Law Centre for advice.

Helping Your Child Cope Emotionally

Not being placed – especially when all their friends were – can make a child feel rejected, confused, or anxious.

How to Support Your Child Emotionally:

1. Acknowledge Their Feelings“I can see this is really upsetting for you. It’s okay to feel sad.”
2. Reassure Them It’s Not Their FaultExplain that this has nothing to do with them personally and that many children face the same issue.
3. Stay Positive (But Realistic)Avoid false promises, but keep hope alive: “We are working hard to get you into a great school.”
4. Let Them Stay in Contact with FriendsPlaydates or calls with friends placed elsewhere can soften the emotional blow.
5. Involve Them in the Process (Where Age-Appropriate)Ask what they’d want in a school, let them visit alternatives with you, or meet new teachers together.
6. Keep Routine and Reassurance at HomeMaintain structure, bedtime, and positive rituals to help them feel safe and grounded.

Helpful Resources

• Gauteng Department of Education Admissionswww.gdeadmissions.gov.za
• Western Cape Education Departmentadmissions.westerncape.gov.za
• Equal Education Law Centre (Legal Support)www.eelawcentre.org.za
• Section27 (Education Rights Support)www.section27.org.za
• South African Homeschoolers Associationwww.sahomeschoolers.org

Yes, this is incredibly stressful – but you are not failing your child. The school system has challenges, but with persistence, support, and accurate information, your child will find their place. Sometimes, the “second choice” becomes a blessing in disguise.

You are doing your best, and your child will remember your strength, not your worry.

For more insights on parenting visit: https://planetparent.co.za/