Advice to Grade 8s on new journey

With five years of studying ahead of them, culminating in their matric final exams in 2029, Grade 8s are advised by experts to start learning how to manage their time.

- Oratile Mashilo

Thousands of pupils began their first day in the new school year on Wednesday.

An education expert said Grade 8s should not waste time and take advantage of the opportunity to maximise learning before reaching more demanding grades.

"In the next 300 days, they will be stepping into a grade [Grade 9] that requires them to choose subjects. They may find themselves in a more difficult space when it comes to choosing subjects that are aligned with their dreams," he said.