With the excitement of the new school year settling and the ceremonies, welcomes and celebrations now behind them, the Matric Class of 2026 has reached a defining moment. The year that determines the culmination of twelve years of schooling is officially underway — and the road to the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams has begun in earnest.
For many learners, matric is both thrilling and daunting. It is a year of leadership roles, farewell planning and milestone moments, all layered on top of academic pressure. For parents, it often feels as though they are writing matric too — navigating expectations, emotions and the responsibility of supporting a young adult through one of the most demanding academic years of their lives.
“Whether students are aiming for university entrance, considering a gap year, or simply focused on finishing strong, the culmination of twelve years of education comes down to the NSC results they will sit for later this year,” says Darren Purdon, Academic Project Manager: Academic Centre of Excellence at ADvTECH and The IIE.
Balancing excitement with responsibility
Matric is unlike any other school year. Alongside academic demands, students are expected to take on leadership positions, plan matric farewells and prepare for valediction services — all while maintaining strong academic performance.
“Matric is a year filled with excitement and responsibility,” says Purdon. “These events are memorable, but they also add pressure. Mental health becomes a crucial factor as students juggle multiple responsibilities and expectations.”
This balance, he notes, is not automatic. It must be planned for intentionally from the start of the year.
Setting clear goals from day one
Starting the year on the right foot begins with clarity. Understanding academic targets, particularly APS (Admission Point Score) requirements, is critical for students who plan to apply to tertiary institutions.
“APS scores are vital for university entrance, so students must understand the requirements and track their progress consistently,” says Purdon. “Parents can support this by creating a tracking sheet and having regular, constructive conversations about marks. These discussions should motivate and guide, not intimidate.”
Goal-setting, when paired with encouragement, helps students stay focused without becoming overwhelmed.
Planning to prevent burnout
Organisation is one of the most powerful tools matriculants have at their disposal. Without it, the risk of burnout increases significantly.
“A monthly planner that includes all assessments and portfolio deadlines helps students stay organised,” Purdon explains. “Establishing a study routine early in the year, with consistent daily habits, is far more effective than last-minute cramming.”
Whether digital or on a wall, marking exam dates, assignment deadlines and test schedules early can reduce anxiety and improve performance over time.
Portfolios, performance and academic integrity
Portfolio work plays a substantial role in final NSC results, making consistent effort throughout the year essential. Students are encouraged to submit their best work, revise where possible and actively seek feedback from teachers.
“Many subjects allow students to select their highest-scoring portfolio pieces,” says Purdon. “This flexibility can be a strategic advantage when assignments are approached with preparation and effort.”
However, he cautions against plagiarism. While tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot are useful for research and idea development, they should never be used to generate final submissions. Plagiarised work can be penalised or discarded entirely, negatively affecting results.
Mental wellbeing matters
Academic success cannot be separated from mental health. Long study hours, pressure to perform and fear of failure can take their toll if not managed carefully.
Short, focused study blocks followed by regular breaks, combined with healthy habits such as exercise, balanced nutrition and sufficient sleep, can significantly improve concentration and resilience. Simple stress-management techniques — journaling, breathing exercises or short walks — can help students remain grounded during high-pressure periods.
“Pressure is normal,” says Purdon. “The key is learning how to manage it effectively.”
Don’t underestimate Life Orientation
Often overlooked, Life Orientation can play a meaningful role in a student’s final results and even influence university residence applications.
“It’s a task-driven subject, making it easier to excel with proper planning and effort,” says Purdon. “Aim for a distinction — it’s achievable.”
Smarter study strategies
Active learning techniques remain some of the most effective ways to retain information. Summarising notes, teaching concepts aloud, using flashcards and practising with past papers can significantly improve understanding.
“Previous NSC papers are invaluable for understanding question formats and expectations,” Purdon notes. “They are freely available online and should be printed and organised in subject-specific folders.”
Reflection after each assessment is equally important. Identifying what worked and where improvement is needed creates a feedback loop that drives growth throughout the year.
Revisiting key Grade 11 content, particularly in Mathematics, Physical Sciences and Languages, can also strengthen foundations. Study groups, peer tutoring and regular check-ins with teachers or mentors help identify challenges early — before they become setbacks.
Planning beyond matric
While the focus remains on the present, students are encouraged to think strategically about life after matric.
“Start exploring your options early by investigating all available pathways,” says Purdon. “Attend Open Days at both public and private institutions to gain insight into programmes, campuses and facilities.”
Being proactive, he adds, reduces stress later in the year and allows students to make informed decisions about their future.
A year to remember
Matric is not only about academic outcomes. It is a year of growth, transition and unforgettable milestones.
“With the right support and mindset, students can thrive and finish strong,” says Purdon. “Above all, they should remember to enjoy their final year of school. It passes quickly. Embrace the journey, plan wisely and make the most of every moment.”
