SAPS shares tips for parents and teachers

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The police are urging teachers and parents to take active steps in keeping children safe from crime, violence, and harmful influences in and around schools.

Department of Basic Education join forces with the SAPS

According to South African Police Services, safety is crucial for effective learning, and crime, violence, and abuse often create barriers to this environment.

Unfortunately, schools can also be places where fear, intimidation, and victimisation occur.

The Department of Basic Education and SAPS works proactively to prevent, manage and respond to crimes and violence in schools.

School safety tips for educators

SAPS has suggested the following steps or measures:

Strictly enforce a zero-tolerance approach to weapons, alcohol, and drugs on school grounds.
Set up and strictly maintain drug-free and gun-free zones around schools.
Encourage learners to take part in creating a positive school environment.
Create clear guidelines between the SAPS and the school on how to share information and support learners who may be at risk.
Put together a list of support services and resources to refer learners dealing with stress, depression, or other personal challenges.
Get learners actively involved in planning safety and wellness programmes at school.
Establish a safe school committee to oversee the development and implementation of initiatives.

School safety tip for parents

SAPS suggested the following steps parents should take to protect their children:

Take time to talk to your child about their day and listen to any concerns they may have.
Help your child learn how to solve problems calmly without resorting to violence.
Monitor their internet activity and talk to them about staying safe online.
Ask the school about their safety procedures.
Be involved in your child’s school life and stay connected with their teachers.
Plan a safe route for children when walking to and from school.
Make sure your child knows and follows basic road safety rules, like obeying traffic signals.
Teach your child not to tolerate strangers or accept anything from them.
Encourage them to walk to school with friends or groups.
Make sure they know important emergency numbers and how to use them.

Key dates for second term

Below is a comprehensive overview of the key dates for the second term school calendar, designed to help parents stay informed and prepared.

Schools start: 8 April 2025
Schools close: 17 June 2025
Public holidays: Good Friday (18 April 2025), Family Day (21 April 2025), Freedom Day (27 April 2025), Workers’ Day (1 May 2025), Youth Day (16 June 2025)
Special school holidays: 29 April to 2 May 2025
School holidays: 18 June to 8 July 2025.