Getting your child into a good school is one of the most important decisions you can make as a parent. In Gauteng, where your home is located plays a big role in which schools your child can attend. This is where Gauteng School Feeder Zones come in.
In this easy-to-follow 2025 guide, we explain what feeder zones are, why they matter, and how you can use this system to increase your child’s chances of getting a place at a good public school near your home.
What Are Gauteng School Feeder Zones?
A feeder zone is the area around a public school. If you live in that area, your child will be given first preference when applying to that school. This helps make sure children go to schools close to home, which is good for safety, transport, and keeping families involved in their communities.
Each public school in Gauteng has its own feeder zone. The Department of Education uses your home address (and sometimes your work address) to see if you live within a school’s feeder area.
Why Are Feeder Zones So Important?
Feeder zones matter because they affect your child’s chances of being accepted into a school. If your home is inside a school’s feeder zone:
Your child is more likely to get a space.
The school is closer, which saves transport money and time.
You become part of a local school community.
Schools also use feeder zones to plan for things like:
Class sizes
Teacher availability
Resources like desks, books, and classrooms
2026 School Admissions: What You Should Know
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) manages an online admissions system for Grade 1 and Grade 8 placements each year. This system helps parents apply to public schools across the province.
Important Note: As of now, the official opening and closing dates for 2026 admissions have not yet been announced by the GDE.
Stay prepared by:
Keeping an eye on updates from the GDE at www.gdeadmissions.gov.za
Gathering your required documents early
Exploring schools in your area using the GDE’s “Explore Schools” tool
Applying as soon as the system opens gives your child the best chance of getting into a school close to home, especially one within your feeder zone.
How to Apply to Schools Using Feeder Zones
Follow these steps to use the feeder zone system properly:
Go to the GDE Admissions Website:
Visit www.gdeadmissions.gov.za on your phone or computer.Explore Nearby Schools:
Use the “Explore Schools” tool to check which schools are in your feeder zone.Apply to Multiple Schools:
You can apply to 3 to 5 schools, but always include those within your zone first. This gives your child a stronger chance of getting placed.
Documents You’ll Need to Apply
You must upload or take certified copies of the following documents:
Parent or Guardian ID
Child’s Birth Certificate
Proof of Home Address (like a utility bill or lease agreement)
Work Address (if using this for a work-based feeder zone)
Latest School Report (for Grade 8)
Immunization Card (for Grade 1)
Make sure the documents are clear and certified by a commissioner of oaths (you can find one at the police station or post office).
How Do Schools Decide Who Gets In?
If there are many applications, schools will use the following order to decide:
Home Address in the Feeder Zone
Sibling Already at the School
Parent’s Work Address in the Feeder Zone
Home Address within 30km of the School
Home Address more than 30km away
If you live outside the feeder zone, your chances are lower, but you can still apply.
What Happens After You Apply?
The placement process usually starts in September. If your child is offered a place:
You have 7 days to accept the offer on the GDE portal.
If you don’t respond in time, your child’s spot may go to someone else.
If your child doesn’t get placed, you can:
Contact the GDE for help
Apply to schools that still have space
Explore schools outside your immediate feeder zone
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last day.
Choose Schools in Your Zone: These give your child a better chance.
Double-Check Your Documents: Missing or incorrect documents can delay placement.
Stay Updated: Check your email and the GDE portal often.
Related: How to Get Help with School Fees If You Can’t Afford to Pay
Final Thoughts
Understanding Gauteng School Feeder Zones can make the difference between getting into your preferred school and missing out. Know your zone, prepare your documents, and apply on time to give your child the best start to their education in 2025.
