A number of learners have been refused admission to a school because they are told they have not paid their outstanding fees. The parents are unable to afford the outstanding fees and want to take action against the school to force them to take their children.

WHAT DOES THE LAW SAY?

The law states that a school cannot refuse to re-admit a learner to school on grounds that they have school fees outstanding.

WHAT CAN THEY DO?

1. The learner’s parents should write a letter to the school principal pointing out which part of the law they are breaking and formally appeal to the SGB against the decision. Send a copy of this letter to the Head of the Department in the province and /or the Provincial MEC (Member of the Executive Council) for Education.
2. If the school still refuses to admit the learner, or if they don’t reply to the letter, the learner should write to the HOD in the province and/or MEC for Education and advise them that the school continues to refuse to admit the learner.
3. If the HOD or MEC does not respond contact a public interest law organisation or a lawyer for support.