CAPE TOWN – A dispute has erupted between Zeekoevlei Primary School’s governing body and the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) over alleged staff dismissals and severe classroom overcrowding, with 76 Grade 7 learners reportedly crammed into a single Afrikaans class.
Education Department’s response
The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) strongly refuted dismissal allegations, clarifying no staff members were actually dismissed from the school. Instead, five School Governing Body (SGB) funded contract positions – including two educator posts, a bursar, cook, and counsellor – expired at the end of 2025 and were not renewed due to funding constraints.
“These employees were informed last year, with discussions beginning in October 2025, that their contracts would not be renewed. The SGB was also made aware of this. The non-renewal of contracts is due to funding issues. The SGB were very aware of this,” said WCED spokesperson, Bronagh Hammond.
Overcrowding crisis highlighted
Education watchdog Parents for Equal Education (Peesa) founder Vanessa le Roux raised public awareness about the school’s plight through social media, sharing concerns from a Grade 7 parent about the dramatic overcrowding.
People’s Post reached out to the school and local parents for comment but they could not respond by the time of publication.
The WCED says they have been actively supporting the school.
“District officials have been on site to address operational and administrative matters raised at the school, including those relating to class organisation, timetabling, and SGB administrative responsibilities. It is also important to note that the required budget meeting did not take place last year due to certain SGB members declining to proceed, which has contributed to ongoing governance challenges,” Hammond said.
Department intervention efforts
The WCED acknowledged that the conclusion of an SGB-funded educator post impacted Grade 7 class structure, necessitating an additional Afrikaans class to accommodate learners properly.
“To address this, officials have reviewed educator qualifications, engaged the school leadership, and held a meeting on Thursday to explore feasible timetable and staffing adjustments. This process is progressing well, and the revised Grade 7 class structure is expected to be finalised this week,” Hammond said
WCED reiterates that they will continue working closely with the school leadership to resolve remaining issues in the best interests of the learners.
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