Back to school in KZN

Public schools across the country are r-eopening their doors this morning.

Here in KZN, the department's Muzi Mahlambi says they are hoping for a smooth start to the first term.

"We are very excited about the reports we are getting from all 12 of our districts, saying it is all systems go ... We are ready to start teaching and learning," he says, "Most of the schools have finished their admission of learners for the 2019 academic year. And the majority of schools distributed stationary last year before we closed but some did that this week".

It is a big day for thousands of little ones who will formally beginning their school careers, today.

"I'm very excited to read. I'm going to learn at school and play soccer. I'm going to learn to write and play with lots of friends," one six-year-old has this morning told Newswatch.

And parents with children starting 'big school' today are equally excited.

Says one mother, "It's in these years that you make the most amazing friendship and you challenge yourself to be the best that you can possibly be".

Parents say early preparation helps them to get ready for the back to school hustle and bustle. 

Aside from academics, they say they want their children to grow into well-rounded individuals who are respectful and confident.

"We are encouraging him (our son) to do his school work, to be good, to participate in sport and to pursue whatever career he chooses to do," says one father.

Parents whose children are starting high school this year, have described the feeling as "bittersweet".

Meanwhile, returning high school pupils all seem to have their eyes on the prize.

"I'm actually nervous for a class I'm going to be in but I'm quite excited to get good grades," a young lady at Danville High School says.

Another adds: "I want to do better than last year, when I was in Grade 8. I want to get good marks this year".