Matric Prelims 2025 Kick Off: How Pupils Can Stay Focused, Calm, and Succeed

The countdown is over. South Africa’s matric class of 2025 is officially stepping into preliminary examinations, with the Eastern Cape kicking off on 25 August. Across the country, pupils are preparing to face what many describe as the “dress rehearsal” for the final National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams.

For many learners and parents, prelims are more than just tests, they’re a first taste of exam pressure, a measure of preparation, and a moment to refine strategies before the big finals.

Exam Dates Across the Provinces

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has outlined a staggered schedule to accommodate all provinces:

• Eastern Cape: 25 August – 23 September

• Free State: 2 September – 2 October

• Gauteng: 29 August – 26 September

• KwaZulu-Natal: 8 September – 2 October

• Limpopo: 2 September – 26 September

• Mpumalanga: 2 September – 30 September

• Northern Cape: 29 August – 30 September

• North West: 27 August – 25 September

• Western Cape: 5 September – 26 September

DBE Minister Urges Confidence and Balance

Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, spoke directly to learners ahead of the exams. “To our matric class of 2025, I commend your dedication and resilience. Prelims are a chance to sharpen your preparation for the finals. Manage your time wisely, revise past papers, and approach each session with focus,” she said.

She emphasised the importance of balance: “Take short breaks, stretch, and refresh your mind. Stay positive. We believe in you. Your future is bright. Go forward with confidence and determination.”

Expert Tips for Acing Prelims

Organisations like the Zero Dropout Campaign stress practical approaches to studying. Programme director Merle Mansfield recommends breaking subjects into manageable chapters and creating a realistic study schedule.

“Use active recall instead of just reading notes. Quiz yourself, explain concepts in your own words, and practice past exam papers,” Mansfield said. She also advocates the Pomodoro method,  study for 25–50 minutes, then take a 5–10 minute break,  to maintain focus.

Lionel Botha, liaison at Inspired Education South Africa, added that mindset is just as crucial as preparation. “Remain calm and confident. Trust the work you’ve put in over the years. Approach each exam with determination, and remember these prelims are stepping stones, not the finish line,” he said.

Families Play a Vital Role

Experts agree that support at home can make a difference. Mansfield notes that pupils perform better when they feel safe and supported. Parents are encouraged to celebrate effort over results and remind their children that exams don’t define their future.

Staying Sharp and Healthy

Botha advises learners to maintain routines, get adequate sleep, and make time for light exercise. “Long, uninterrupted study sessions can be counterproductive. Regular breaks, physical activity, and rest keep your mind sharp and stress levels manageable,” he said.

As South Africa’s matrics face this crucial milestone, the message is clear: preparation, balance, and positivity are the keys. With the right strategies, this year’s matriculants can turn prelim exams into a confident stride toward the NSC finals.

{Source: The Citizen}

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