Stopped from writing a matric paper? What KZN says and your next step

KwaZulu-Natal's Education Department is investigating claims that eight matric learners at three schools were kept out of their National Senior Certificate (NSC) exam papers, either as punishment for skipping extra classes or to protect a school's pass rate. MEC Sipho Hlomuka said no learner should be denied an exam for either reason (IOL).

With the 2026 NSC exams running until 26 November (DBE), here is what the department has said and what a learner who misses a paper can do.

What allegedly happened at the KZN schools?

According to the department's statement, as reported by IOL and eNCA:

• One learner in the Pinetown District was allegedly not allowed to write History last week because she missed Saturday extra classes.
• Six learners at a school in the uMlazi District were allegedly barred from Mathematical Literacy Paper 1 because their results could hurt the school's 100% pass target.
• A learner at a third school, in Folweni near Isipingo, was allegedly kept out of the Accounting paper (IOL).

These are allegations. The department says it will investigate each case and take internal disciplinary action if misconduct is found (IOL).

What did the MEC say?

Hlomuka said extra classes are meant to support learners and "must never be used as a punitive measure" that stops them finishing their exams. He added that school performance targets "must never be prioritised" over learners' rights and wellbeing (IOL).

The department also said it would give the affected learners support so they can keep writing their remaining papers (IOL).

Can a learner who missed a paper still pass matric?

Yes, there is a second chance. The old February/March supplementary exam has been scrapped and replaced by the May/June NSC exam (DBE).

• Learners who missed a paper because of illness, injury or a death in the family can register, with documentary proof.
• Learners who missed a paper for any other reason can also apply, but the school principal must submit a written report to the provincial exams authority.
• Where an irregularity is under investigation, a learner can be provisionally enrolled while the case is finalised.

The Western Cape Education Department lists registration for the May/June 2027 exam as open from 2 November 2026 to 5 February 2027, with no late applications (WCED). Check your own province's closing date with your district office.

What should parents do if it happens?

• Report it to the school principal in writing straight away and keep a copy.
• If the school doesn't fix it, take it to your education district office. The department says it is acting on these complaints (IOL).
• Ask the principal for the written report needed for May/June registration if your child couldn't write (DBE).
• For free rewrite support, the DBE Second Chance programme is on 0800 20 29 33 or [email protected] (gov.za).

When are matric results out?

Results for the class of 2026 are due on 12 January 2027 from 10:00, according to the WCED.