The Free State Department of Education is giving its Second Chance Matric Support Programme (SCMSP) – known as the Finishing School Model – a major overhaul to open doors for more learners chasing quality education.
From 2026, the province will ditch the Finishing School setup and fully adopt the Department of Basic Education’s (DBE) SCMSP Part-time model. This move aims to stretch resources amid tight budgets.
The Free State currently runs five Finishing Schools, one in each district:
- Riverside in Qwaqwa
- Selokisa in Botshabelo
- Tumahole in Parys
- Mohokare in Zastron
- Tshepo Themba in Welkom
These centres together host around 5,000 candidates working toward their Senior Certificate (SC) or National Senior Certificate (NSC). The Finishing School approach, exclusive to the Free State, provided full-time classes for retaking up to three subjects and rewriting matric exams. It targeted two groups: those who fell short of the NSC pass mark, and others aiming to boost scores for varsity entry.
Free State Education MEC, Dr MJ Maboya said: “Finishing Schools are not closing, but being adjusted to better support learners.”
The new DBE SCMSP Part-time Model brings flexible timetables, with classes running from 14:00 to 17:00 or over weekends. Learners can sign up at district offices and get pointed to SCMSP centres in their areas.
Key subjects being offered free of charge include:
- Accounting
- Agricultural Science
- Business Studies
- Economics
- English FAL
- Geography
- History
- Mathematics
- Mathematical Literacy
- Physical Sciences
- Life Sciences.
Financial pressures mean the department can’t keep funding the Finishing School model beyond 2025. Instead, it’ll roll out the part-time version province-wide, scouting more centres in every district to reach extra failed matrics or result-upgraders, helping them qualify for tertiary studies.
“We want to enhance quality education,” MEC Maboya said. “Finishing Schools are undergoing adjustments to provide better support and resources to learners. Our goal remains unchanged: to empower learners for success. Finishing Schools are being refined to meet evolving needs.”
She added that the department is reconfiguring the programme to deliver cost effective and exceptional education and opportunities for the province’s learners. “Change is coming to Finishing Schools, but our commitment to learners remains strong. Stay tuned for updates,” she said.
For details on the SCMSP Part-time model or to find the closest centre, visit the local district office.
Compiled by Warren Hawkins
warren@mahareng.co.za
