Spark Schools Centurion

Good day, I hope you are well. I would like to raise my concern regarding the documentation requested for my child’s missed Grade 5 assessment. He was genuinely ill and unable to write the exam, and I am worried that he is now being placed at an academic disadvantage due to circumstances beyond his control. According to the Regulations under the South African Schools Act, when a learner is unable to write an exam due to illness or other valid reasons, the school may accept a medical certificate, an affidavit, or any other acceptable proof, countersigned by the Principal, before it is submitted to the assessment body for a decision on promotion. The regulation does not require the affidavit to be issued specifically by a police station, nor does it state that this is the only acceptable form of proof. I have attempted to obtain an affidavit, but nearby police stations indicate they do not issue such affidavits for minors. This inconsistency has made the process difficult, especially as I work full‑time and cannot easily reach distant stations. The regulation also allows for other forms of acceptable proof, not only police‑issued affidavits. Given that my child was genuinely unwell, I kindly request that the school consider a more supportive and learner‑centred approach so that he is not unfairly penalised. The purpose of the assessment process is to evaluate learning, not to disadvantage children when they fall ill unexpectedly. I am committed to providing the required documentation in a form that aligns with the national policy. Please advise on how we can move forward in a way that ensures my child is supported and given the opportunity to complete his assessment without unnecessary delays or barriers. Thank you for your understanding, and I appreciate your assistance in resolving this matter fairly. Kind regards, Nandipha Mgijima