Many know Johannesburg as Africa’s financial centre. However, it is also a major educational hub, home to top universities. To cater to these, the city requires exceptional school teachers who can prepare students for higher education.
Even with over 260 schools in the city, it is difficult for the system to keep up with the large number of school children. To maintain educational standards, schools are always seeking skilled teachers.
In this article, we will explore the best teaching jobs in Johannesbug, the skills they require and where teachers can apply for openings.
Table of Contents
Overview of the Teaching Job Market in Johannesburg
The job market for teachers in Johannesburg offers strong demand for teachers across all phases. However, there is a stronger demand for teachers in the Senior and Further Education and Training phase. The learning that teachers provide to these students helps prepare them for the Matric exams.
The Regenesys School of Education offers an accredited Bachelor of Education programme that prepares future teachers for these phases.
Public schools in Johannesburg are the largest employers of teachers. These are followed by private and international schools. Additionally, tutoring centres, online schools, and pre-schools also offer opportunities beyond traditional schools.
Read more on Where Can I Study to Become a Teacher in South Africa? here
Best Teaching Jobs in Johannesburg by Education Phase
The school system in South Africa is divided into three phases, each linked to specific grades and learning outcomes. This helps to support learners as they progress academically and socially.
The phases determine teacher qualifications, the curriculum they will cover, and the methodology they will follow.
1. Foundation Phase Teaching Jobs (Grades Rā€“3)
Foundation Phase teaching roles in Johannesburg focus on building strong learning habits during the earliest years of formal schooling. Common roles include Grade R teachers, Foundation Phase class teachers, and early childhood educators.
Teaching young children requires patience, strong communication skills, and the ability to create structured yet supportive learning environments. Foundation Phase teachers are employed in public schools, private schools, and early learning centres across the city.
In the Foundation Phase, some schools also employ a Teaching Assistant to support teachers.
2. Intermediate Phase Teaching Jobs (Grades 4ā€“6)
Intermediate Phase teaching jobs focus on building academic foundation and subject understanding. Teachers at this level can sometimes teach multiple subjects, including Mathematics, English, and Science.
In Johannesburg, Intermediate Phase educators are needed in both urban and township schools. Intermediate Phase teachers must be able to manage diverse classrooms and support the transition to English-language teaching.
3. Senior Phase Teaching Jobs (Grades 7ā€“9)
Senior phase jobs are best suited to those who prefer subject-focused teaching. The CHE-accredited Regenesys Bachelor of Education in SP and FET prepare teachers to teach these grades.
At this level, learners are introduced to more advanced content and formal assessment methods. Johannesburg schools regularly recruit Senior Phase teachers for subjects such as Mathematics and Science.
Teachers are expected to prepare students for the academic demands of the FET phase.
4. FET Phase Teaching Jobs (Grades 10ā€“12)
FET teaching jobs are among the most in-demand positions in Johannesburg. It is especially strong for teachers who have specialised in STEM subjects. The Regenesys programme offers a specialisation in Science and Technology and Business and Management. This aligns with the demand in schools and national growth.
FET teachers are expected to deliver detailed subject content and prepare students for university.
Read more on Why Choose BEd Senior Phase and FET Teaching in 2026? here
High-Demand Teaching Subjects in Johannesburg
When teachers specialise in high-demand teaching subjects, it improves their earning potential. This is because schools compete to attract qualified teachers to teach subjects where there is a skills shortage.
High-demand subjects are often those that are academically challenging and directly relate to national economic needs. Over time, specialisation in these subjects can also lead to roles in curriculum coordination, subject leadership, or management roles.
Some of these subjects that can lead to the best teaching jobs in Johannesburg are:
- Mathematics
- Physical Science
- Languages including English, Afrikaans, and isiZulu
- Natural Science
- Economics
- Accounting
Read more on BEd vs PGCE: Which Teaching Qualification is Right for You? here
Teaching Jobs Outside Traditional Schools
The best teaching jobs in Johannesburg are not limited to traditional school settings. With changing needs and demand for flexible learning, teachers can now explore new opportunities.
This allows teachers to contribute to learner development beyond traditional classrooms. Some places that teachers can explore these roles are:
- Private tutoring centres
- Online teaching platforms
- Publishing companies
- Provincial education departments
Read more on Education Entrepreneurship: Can You Start Your Own Learning Centre After a BEd? here
Salary Expectations for Teaching Jobs in Johannesburg
Teacher salaries in Johannesburg vary depending on various factors. Entry-level teachers typically earn lower salaries but benefit from structured progression. Experienced teachers, particularly those in high-demand subjects or leadership roles, earn higher salaries.
Private schools offer competitive packages, while public schools provide additional benefits beyond base pay. The average annual salary for a teacher in Johannesburg is R212,512, according to Indeed. This figure, updated as of 1 February 2026, is 22% above the national average.
The table below offers a breakdown of specific teacher salaries in Johannesburg. The figures have been gathered from various sources and are updated as of February 2026.
| Teaching Role | Average Annual Salary |
| Secondary School Teacher | R566,267 |
| Science Teacher | R573,052 |
| Primary School Teacher | R200,717 |
Qualifications and Registration Required to Teach in Johannesburg
To qualify for the best teaching jobs in Johannesburg, teachers must hold an accredited Bachelor of Education degree. This should be in the phase in which they wish to pursue teaching. Alternatively, they can also hold an accredited bachelorā€™s degree followed by a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).
All teachers are required by law to register themselves with the South African Council for Educators (SACE). This registration is required to legally teach in public and private schools.
Career Growth and Progression for Teachers in Johannesburg
Teaching careers in Johannesburg offer clear pathways for advancement. With experience and further study, teachers can progress into leadership roles. These positions allow teachers to take on greater responsibility while remaining closely involved in student development. These roles can include Head of Department, Deputy Principal, or Principal.
Beyond schools, Johannesburg offers wider career options due to its large and diverse education sector. Teachers can also seek roles in academic management, curriculum development, or education policy. The cityā€™s large education sector supports long-term career stability and growth opportunities.
How to Find Teaching Jobs in Johannesburg?
Teaching vacancies in Johannesburg are advertised through several channels. A structured approach helps teachers identify suitable roles more efficiently.
Most teaching vacancies are advertised through official and widely used platforms. Most teaching vacancies are advertised through official and widely used platforms.
- Department of Basic Education for public school postings
- Private school websites that advertise openings directly
- Reputed job portals that list education roles across Johannesburg
- School network websites that manage multiple institutions
- Social media platforms where schools post urgent or short-term vacancies
Read more on Job Opportunities for BEd Graduates in Rural vs Urban Areas here
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Conclusion
With a large and growing learner population, the city continues to rely on qualified, well-trained teachers. While demand exists for all phases, it is particularly high for Senior Phase and FET teachers. The Regenesys Bachelor of Education in SP &FET is a prestigious programme for future teachers.
Teaching in Johannesburg offers more than job availability. It provides long-term career stability, clear progression pathways, and opportunities to work in diverse classrooms. With the right degree and subject specialisation, teachers can access some of the best teaching jobs in Johannesburg.
Enrol for our CHE-accredited Bachelor of Education programme on the Regenesys Education website today!
FAQs
What are the best teaching jobs in Johannesburg?
The best teaching jobs are often found in the Senior Phase and FET phase. There is a high demand for subject specialisation in Mathematics, Science, Accounting, and Languages.
Which schools employ the most teachers in Johannesburg?
Public schools are the largest employers, followed by private, international, and independent schools. Tutoring centres and online platforms also employ teachers.
What qualifications are required to teach in Johannesburg?
Teachers must hold an accredited Bachelor of Education degree in the phase they wish to teach. Alternatively, they can hold a recognised bachelorā€™s degree followed by a PGCE.
Are there teaching jobs outside traditional schools in Johannesburg?
Yes, teachers can work in tutoring centres, online education platforms, publishing, and education departments.
How can teachers apply for jobs in Johannesburg?
Teachers can apply through the Department of Basic Education, private school websites, job portals, school networks, and social media platforms.
