The maps of the 2,067 feeder zones were finalised for consultations, of which 334 schools contested their proposed feeder zones.
Feeder zones will be reviewed every three years. If a school governing body (SGB) is unhappy they can appeal their assigned feeder zone within 30 days. There are no feeder zones for special schools because they cater for learners with specific needs and competencies.
Explaining the change, Gauteng education deputy director general Albert Chanee said: “If there are 1,000 seats in a school, everyone gets in, regardless of from where they come.”
If there are more applications than seats the department will look at the feeder zone within a 30km radius for applications. “People that are within 30km will have preference.”
If there are still too many applications, the department will look at distance, whether a sibling attends the school and whether the parents work in the area.