The Western Cape Education Department says the return of learners to schools went relatively smoothly.

On Monday, marked the start of the school year across the country.

The department says it is pleased with the start, with most districts reporting no disruption to schooling.

Education MEC, Debbie Schäfer has admitted that there’s a significant increase in the number of learners seeking a place in the province.

She said that more than 20, 000 new pupils move to the province every year.