Over 71,000 full-time students in the Western Cape are preparing to take the National Certificate examinations for 2026, which will begin on October 13. Graduates have thirty days left to prepare for the final school assessments, with 71,300 such candidates registered.
The Western Cape Department of Education is preparing 485 examination centers and plans to involve approximately 2,600 public observers and 3,857 markers. The exams start with the 'Computer Applications Technology' (CAT) subject on October 13 and will conclude on November 25, with 123 papers scheduled.
Preparation of 485 Centers for Exams
The Western Cape Education MEC, Jacob Londt, reported that teachers, tutors, and staff have been actively working to prepare candidates for the final stage of their school careers. Out of the total 485 examination centers, 477 are secondary schools, seven are primary schools, and one center is designated for partial candidates and is located in a correctional facility.
The province has also increased academic support before the exams: over 31,000 graduates attended #BackOnTrack winter schools during the mid-year holidays. These sessions took place in all eight education districts and covered various subjects. Additional revision classes are planned for the upcoming third-term holidays while candidates finalize their preparation.
WCED has provided candidates access to previous examination papers and memoranda, study guides, video lessons, and subject-specific academic support.
Call for Focus
With only a month left until the tests begin, Londt strongly urged candidates to avoid distractions and focus entirely on the examinations. He stated: 'This is your moment. Breathe, absorb the information, and dedicate the necessary time and effort. Time for celebrations will come later.' He added: 'Stay disciplined and focused for now; your hard work will pay off. The Western Cape supports you every step of the way!'
Parents, guardians, and the public were also advised to protect students' study time in the final weeks before the exams. Londt appealed to them: 'I want to ask parents, guardians, and the community to work with us to support our learners during this time. Let us not interrupt their precious study time or do anything that could negatively affect their concentration.'
WCED Acknowledges Exam Pressure
The department acknowledged that the final countdown can create heightened stress for candidates and urged struggling students to seek help. Londt noted: 'We know how stressful this period can be for students. We urge those who are struggling, or adults concerned about a student's mental health, to contact WCED for assistance.' School staff can receive support from district support groups, and the School Safety Hotline can connect students with relevant governmental and non-governmental organizations.
Candidates have one month of preparation before the first papers are written on October 13, after which a period of more than six weeks of examinations will commence, concluding on November 25.