DBE Registration is a formal process that allows parents or legal guardians to register their children for home education with the relevant Provincial Department of Education. This step is necessary to comply with South African education laws and ensure that your child receives an approved educational experience.
Key Steps for DBE Registration
Follow these straightforward steps to register your child with the DBE:
- Visit the Registration Portal: Start by accessing the official DBE Registration Portal.
- Choose Your Province: Navigate to the Home Education page and select your province from the options on the right side of the screen. This will direct you to the relevant application form.
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form as per the instructions provided. Ensure all information is accurate to avoid any delays in processing.
- Submit Your Application: Use the email address listed on the front page of the form to send the completed application along with the required documents.
Required Documentation
When submitting your application, you will need to include several important documents:
- Certified copy of the learner’s birth certificate
- Certified copy of the learner’s last school report (if applicable)
- Certified copy of the parent’s ID
- For foreign nationals: Certified copies of passport, study permit, work permit, or asylum documents
- Transfer certificate from the previous school (if applicable)
- For learners with special needs: A certified copy of the assessment document or referral letter from a medical practitioner
- Motivation letter: Explain why you wish for your child to be educated at home
- Educational programme details: Include subjects, teaching hours, assessment methods, extracurricular activities, and any tutor involvement (if applicable)
Important Considerations
- Online School Learners: Currently, learners enrolled in online schools are exempt from DBE registration for home education.
- Grade R Registration: As legislation may change, it is wise to contact your Provincial Department of Education to clarify any requirements regarding Grade R registration.
Once your application is submitted, the Provincial Education Department (PED) will review it and inform you of the outcome.
Resources for Registered Clients
For parents already registered, the Optimi Learning Portal (OLP) is a valuable resource. Here, you can find year plans, helpful tips, and essential documents under Resources > General Documents. This platform is designed to support your home education journey effectively.