Acting principal Anele Mkhize stated that Durban Girls' Secondary School is fully prepared for the upcoming matric final exams, noting that students have diligently prepared for the assessments. The school has set an ambitious goal of achieving a 95% pass rate for the 2026 matric class.
To support students, extra classes were organized in Mathematics and Physical Sciences for those struggling with these subjects. However, Mkhize mentioned that some students were unable to attend these supplementary sessions due to the associated travel expenses. Furthermore, the school implemented a dedicated revision program scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, preceding the Mathematics paper on Thursday.
Mkhize elaborated on the structure of the extra classes, explaining that student marks were analyzed to categorize pupils according to their performance levels. Each group then participated in revision sessions led by a teacher who utilized a tailored program focusing specifically on areas where students could improve their scores. In addition to academic preparation, the school also ensured that pupils received psychological support leading up to the exams.
Despite these efforts, Mkhize indicated that the school would benefit from receiving further financial aid from the Department of Education to better meet the diverse needs of its students. The target remains an overall pass rate of 95% or higher for the 2026 cohort, with an expectation of a 95% pass rate specifically among high-performing students in Mathematics.
Grade 12 pupil Luyanda Dube expressed confidence in her readiness for the final exams, attributing this success to the school's extensive preparatory work. She highlighted the numerous workshops and extra classes provided. Dube emphasized that teachers worked tirelessly, guiding students through previous examination papers as part of the revision process, asserting that there was no valid reason for students to lack preparation.
She added that classes for difficult subjects sometimes extended throughout the day, while other subjects also received adequate attention. Dube also credited the extra classes held during the June and September school holidays for aiding their readiness. She noted that the teachers fostered an encouraging and supportive learning atmosphere, frequently beginning lessons with words of motivation. Even upon returning grades, teachers offered guidance and encouragement on how to manage results without becoming disheartened.
Another Grade 12 student, Aphelele Anele Mthethwa, confirmed that the teachers managed to complete the curriculum for all subjects on schedule. Nevertheless, she admitted to feeling nervous and relied heavily on the final revision classes scheduled before each test. Mthethwa expressed gratitude for the support, including the psychological assistance, which was particularly helpful as she was managing personal difficulties at home. She assured that she felt confident in receiving necessary support during the examination period, as students were instructed to seek help if needed.