How to enroll a child in a special needs school through WCED

Enrolling a child in a special needs school through the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) in South Africa typically involves several steps. Here’s a general guide on how to proceed:

  1. Gather information: Start by researching special needs schools in your area that are affiliated with the WCED. Look for schools that offer programs and services suitable for your child’s specific needs.
  2. Contact the WCED: Get in touch with the WCED district office responsible for your area. You can find the contact details on the official WCED website. Reach out to the office and inquire about the enrollment process for special needs schools.
  3. Request an assessment: The WCED will likely require an assessment of your child’s special needs to determine eligibility for enrollment. Contact the district office and inquire about the assessment process. They will guide you on the required documentation and any assessments that need to be conducted.
  4. Gather required documents: Prepare the necessary documents for enrollment. This may include your child’s birth certificate, identification documents, proof of residence, medical reports, and any relevant assessments or diagnoses. The WCED will provide you with a list of required documents.
  5. Schedule a meeting: Set up a meeting with the WCED district office to discuss your child’s needs and the available special needs schools. During this meeting, you can seek guidance on choosing the most appropriate school for your child and understand the support services they offer.
  6. School application: Complete the application form provided by the WCED for the chosen special needs school. Include all the required documents and submit them to the district office or directly to the school, as per their instructions. Make sure to adhere to any deadlines provided.
  7. Follow-up: Keep in touch with the WCED district office and the special needs school to ensure the progress of your child’s enrollment. They will provide updates on the application process and inform you of any additional steps that need to be taken.