An Investigation into Factors that Contribute to Learner Migration in South African Schools

The purpose of this study was to investigate the various factors which contribute to learner migration in South African schools and to suggest ways in which learner migration can be addressed. A qualitative research approach was used for the study and data was collected by means of individual – and group interviews. The sample of the study consists of one Expert Management Information System (EMIS) member and one principal from a secondary school in each of the nine provinces as well as four parents and four learners from four of the nine provinces. The final sample were 50 participants (n=50). Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with the 9 EMIS-members and 9 principals, while focus group interviews were conducted with the 16 parents and 16 learners. The findings of the study correspond with the reasons for learner migration in terms of Bronfenbrenner's bio-ecological theory model. This model is firmly grounded in reality, thereby allowing the researchers to determine how stakeholders are influenced in terms of learner migration. The findings of the study indicate that learners are migrating to other schools due to, inter alia, the new legislative framework, school management and leadership practices of principals, school effectiveness issues, infra structure of schools as well as socio-economic factors. The study underscores the need for structuring the South African learner migration system that is guided by a coherent system of policies that enables principals to manage learner migration effectively.