The South African Department of Basic Education is reviewing the November school calendar due to upcoming exam rescheduling and proposed extended holidays. This decision aims to help both students and teachers recover from the recent academic disruptions caused by unexpected events like power cuts and regional weather issues. The department’s proposal introduces new catch-up sessions and revised assessment schedules to ensure learners stay on track with their curriculum. Parents and school authorities are now waiting for the final approval and public announcement later this month.
Proposed Extended School Break for November 2025
The government has hinted at an extended school break starting mid-November 2025, allowing institutions to adjust for national exam changes and administrative delays. This plan is expected to give students a much-needed rest before the year-end examinations. Teachers will use this period for curriculum revision and student assessment preparation. The extension also allows maintenance work and staff training in schools that were affected by previous disruptions. This change, however, might shorten the December break slightly to maintain the total number of academic days required by law.
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Revised Exam Shifts and New Timetable Plan
Under the new plan, the exam timetable for November will shift by about one week, giving learners extra preparation time. The Department of Education has emphasized that no subjects will be removed but instead redistributed for a more balanced schedule. Schools will also conduct mock tests and remedial classes to assist underperforming students. Parents are advised to stay updated with their local school’s circulars to avoid confusion during this transition. The proposed changes aim to ensure fair assessment without compromising the academic standard set nationwide.
Catch-Up Programs and Support for Students
To counter the effects of lost instructional time, special catch-up programs will be launched across public schools. These sessions will target students in Grades 10 to 12 who are preparing for final exams. The plan includes after-school study groups, digital learning sessions, and weekend tutorials under government supervision. Teachers will receive additional support to guide learners through difficult subjects. These academic recovery plans aim to bridge gaps and ensure that all students meet promotion requirements by the end of the year.
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Public Consultation and Expected Implementation Timeline
The government has opened a public consultation window to gather feedback from school governing bodies and parent associations before finalizing the changes. The revised November school calendar is expected to be confirmed by the second week of October 2025. Implementation will begin immediately after approval, ensuring schools have sufficient time to communicate updates to all stakeholders. The education department is confident that the calendar update will balance student well-being with academic performance, helping the education system recover stronger post-disruption.
| Event | Previous Date | Proposed New Date | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start of Extended Break | 15 Nov 2025 | 10 Nov 2025 | 5 days earlier to aid revision |
| Grade 12 Final Exams | 18 Nov 2025 | 25 Nov 2025 | Shifted to allow extra study time |
| Catch-Up Classes Begin | None (new) | 1 Nov 2025 | Focused academic recovery support |
| Term 4 Closing Date | 13 Dec 2025 | 20 Dec 2025 | Extended to balance lost time |
FAQ 1: Why is the November school calendar changing?
The change aims to adjust exam schedules and provide catch-up support for students affected by recent disruptions.
FAQ 2: Will this affect December holidays?
Yes, the December break might be shortened slightly to maintain academic requirements.
FAQ 3: When will the final decision be announced?
The Department of Education is expected to release the official update by mid-October 2025.
FAQ 4: Who will benefit most from the new plan?
Senior grade students preparing for final exams will benefit most from the extended preparation time.
