ES Malele and Ben Matlhosa were amongst the poorest performing schools in 2010. They blame witchcraft.

Their principals claimed to the MEC the reason for their under-performance was "witchcraft", department spokesman Joseph Mabuza said.

"The principals said that the learners did not trust each other, and they believed that there are learners within the schools who are bewitching them.

"They alleged that on some of the school days, some learners collapse and get confused after recovering," he said.

MEC Vusi Shongwe meanwhile is calling on teachers and parents to make sure children attend classes, and for pupils to form study groups to improve their results.

He is also calling for the municipality to help schools with logistical needs such as water and grass cutting equipment.