“We are especially delighted to have exceeded our target of 40 000 passes, and improved on our indicators of quality such as an increase in Bachelor Degree passes, and a growth in the number of candidates passing mathematics and physical science,” says Grant.
One of the priorities of the department was to increase the pass rate of mathematics and physical science and there has been a significant improvement. In 2013, 12 216 candidates passed mathematics compared to 11 311 in 2012. In physical science, the numbers passing increased from 7 995 in 2012 to 8 333 in 2013 - “a result that we can all be proud of given that the pass rate in this subject was 52.9% just five years ago,” Grant stated. “Examination results are not about numbers in isolation – they are about better life chances for our young people and a government which is prepared to support the improvement of these chances.”
Cathy Labuschagne, DA Western Cape spokesperson for education, adds that under the DA-led Western Cape, the WCED set out to increase the retention rate in the province, which is determined by comparing the number of learners enrolled in Grade 10 and the number of NSC passes of that matric class year. In 2009, just 36.9% of those who enrolled in grade 10 went on to complete their NSC. In 2013, 52.1% who enrolled two years prior, passed the NSC.
Labuscagne says that all eight school districts in the Western Cape have over the last year recorded improved results and have, across the board, achieved pass rates of above 80%.
The pass rate for the Eden and Central Karoo District is 87.6%.
Knysna's executive mayor, Georlene Wolmarans congratulates all learners who have successfully completed the 2013 matric examinations. “The Knysna Municipality is proud to be associated with hard-working individuals.” Wolmarans added that she would like to encourage learners who have not succeeded in passing their matric examinations to try again. “You are by no means a failure because of one examination, and there are many reasons why things can go wrong. I believe in you and know that you can achieve this important goal with hard work and dedication. Remember that we need people with moral courage willing to help make this world a better place.”
Knysna Secondary School achieved a pass rate of 86.3%, an improvement of almost 5% to the previous year's results. All 182 successful candidates achieved results adequate to enter tertiary study. The school's staff members are very proud of their learners, especially since they have had to work in less desirable circumstances - construction work at the school has been ongoing since 2012 and the former school principal, Anton Titus left in June. He was replaced by acting principal, Vivian Bezuidenhout.
Knysna Secondary School's top achievers are Amorey Pieterse (69.4%, with distinction in economics and three Code 6 - 70% to 79% - subject passes), Amber Gallant (69.1%, with four Code 6 passes), Sinead Snygans (64.7%, with one Code 6 pass), George Zenani (64.4%, with distinction for mathematical literacy) and Shanon Sauer (63.6%, with three Code 6 passes).
Mike Lourens, headmaster of Knysna High School says he is extremely proud of all his matriculants. Knysna High School achieved a 97% pass rate. Of the 102 matric candidates, 27 distinctions were awarded to nine candidates. The school’s top candidates are Ané Wiid, (seven distinctions), Deon Janse van Rensburg (six), Daniëlle Seymour (three), Finn Rautenbach (three), Cheryldene Hannies (two), Sean Groome (two), Rebecca Pretorius (two), Ané Terblanche (one) and Cundell Statt (one). Lourens says that although three learners failed, they do qualify to write the supplementary examinations in March.
“The matric class of 2013 should know that not only do they have a senior certificate in hand, but our extremely competent personnel ensured that they are equipped to deal with any challenge that the future may bring. Knysna High is a value-driven school. Fostering and cherishing values means that our school rules are adhered to in a spontaneous way. Our motto, Stabilis Esto, means 'stand firm' and it means that learners are equipped with values and skills to fulfil their future roles as valuable citizens of South Africa.”
Percy Mdala High School achieved a pass rate of 68.1%. A total of 207 candidates wrote the 2013 NSC examination, 141 of them did so successfully.
In the Plettenberg Bay area, Wittedrift High School maintained its 100% pass rate for the second consecutive year, with all 60 candidates passing the 2013 examination.
Plett Secondary School's 111 matric candidates achieved an overall 81.1% pass rate, Murray High School achieved a 59.9% pass rate. Of the 167 learners who wrote their final exams, 100 passed.
Knysna Seconadry School is proud of its top achievers. From left are Vivian Bezuidenhout (acting principal), Amorey Pieterse, Amber Gallant, Sinead Snygans, George Zenani, Shanon Sauer and Chris Stander (Grade 12 head).
These Knysna High School learners all achieved at least one subject distinction. In front (from left) are Ané Terblanche (one), Ané Wiid (seven) and Cheryldene Hannies (two). In the back are Daniëlle Seymour (three), Rebecca Pretorius (two), Cundell Statt (one), Deon Janse van Rensburg (six) and Sean Groome (two). Absent: Finn Rautenbach (three). (Photo: Ingrid Lehmensich-Botha.)
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