Grade repetition in South Africa: facts, figures and possible interventions

This fact sheet is designed for educators, concerned community and parent organisations, as well as education officials. It provides facts and figures on the extent of grade repetition in South Africa, and which learners are most vulnerable to repeating grades. It also provides suggestions for improving learners’ chances of progressing through school efficiently. This fact sheet is based on the findings of the Access to Education study, which was undertaken by Social Surveys and the Centre for Applied Legal Studies (CALS). The study focuses on the barriers children and youth aged 7 to 18 face, entering and completing school.