School drops ball after matrics flunk June exams

There will be no matric farewell for Silversands High School pupils in Cape Town.

The principal apparently cancelled the pupils' big night after only 32% of them passed the June examinations.

Said a disenchanted Achante Eksteen: "I already bought the dress and shoes. It cost about R1000. It's unfair, we worked hard and waited 12 years to get here. We didn't get matric jackets either."

Many of the pupils had already paid the R300 deposit for the R490 jackets.

Reece Jones said: "We have nothing to remember this year by; nothing to be proud of. It puts your self- esteem down. We have nothing to show for our accomplishments."

According to the provincial education department's spokesman, Paddy Attwell, the staff took the decision because of the "attitude and misbehaviour" of the matrics.

"The issue is an internal school matter. Our district office will help to facilitate discussion, if asked," said Attwell.

Basil Manuel, president of union National Professional Teachers' Organisation of South Africa, described the punishment as "a little drastic".

"With a little guidance they could have found another solution," Manuel said.