Nowadays,many people are drawn to teaching because they want to guide learners and play a part in shaping their future. For a lot of students in South Africa, this choice comes up after matric. Before the results, they start looking at study options and thinking seriously about long-term careers. Teaching is still viewed as a reliable and worthwhile profession, with roles available in both public and private schools.
There is also a strong practical reason behind this career path. Several subjects and school phases continue to face a shortage of qualified teachers. This creates steady demand and makes teaching an option for those looking for job security.
In this article, we will explain why many students choose to study teaching in South Africa. We will also learn about what teachers do, available programmes, entry requirements, and expected career outcomes.
Table of Contents
Why Study Teaching in South Africa?
Teaching has a clear influence on how South Africa’s education system develops and how future workers are prepared. With more learners entering schools each year and many long-serving teachers reaching retirement age, the demand for properly trained educators is steadily increasing. This creates consistent demand for trained professionals across different school phases.
Another reason students choose to study teaching in South Africa is the clear structure of the profession. Teaching programmes are regulated, qualifications are nationally recognised, and career paths are well defined. This makes it easier for students to plan their studies and future employment with confidence.
What Does a Teacher Do?
Teaching goes well beyond standing in front of a class and explaining a subject. Teachers spend time planning lessons and checking how learners are progressing. They are responsible to keep the classrooms organised and focused. They also prepare worksheets, tests, and other learning resources.
Beyond the classroom, teachers act as mentors and role models. They help learners build discipline, confidence, and social skills. This wider responsibility makes teaching a profession that requires patience, organisation, and strong communication skills.
Read More: What Is Teaching? Definition, Roles, and Importance in South Africa
Overview of Teaching Programmes in South Africa
Teaching qualifications in South Africa vary based on career stage and academic background. A Bachelor of Education programme offers full professional training. It includes subject knowledge, teaching methods, and classroom practice in detail. Postgraduate options support those who already hold a degree.
The Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching programme offered by Regenesys School of Education focuses on practical classroom skills. It includes teaching practice and built-in AI modules at no additional cost.
The main qualification options include:
- Bachelor of Education programme: This option provides full training for learners who want to qualify as teachers after matric.
- Postgraduate teaching qualifications: Designed for graduates who want to move into education after completing a degree.
- In-service qualifications: These support practising teachers who want to improve skills or specialise further.
- Teaching practice modules: Practical experience forms a key part of recognised teaching programmes.
Entry Requirements for Teaching Programmes in South Africa
Entry requirements depend on the level and type of programme. Most undergraduate teaching programmes require a National Senior Certificate that meets minimum admission criteria. Subject requirements may apply depending on the chosen teaching phase or area.
Before applying, students should always check the specific requirements of the institution. Understanding these early helps avoid delays and improves application success.
Entry requirements for teaching programmes in South Africa usually include:
- Matric results: Applicants must meet minimum pass requirements with specific school subjects depending on the teaching phase or subject area.
- APS score: This score is used by universities to check overall academic readiness before considering an application further.
- Language requirements: Students need to show that they can understand and communicate well in the language.
- Programme-specific criteria: Certain specialisations, such as Mathematics or Science teaching, may require strong results in related school subjects.
Specialisations and Career Paths in Teaching
Teaching offers several specialisation options based on school phase and subject focus. These choices influence both training and long-term career direction. Selecting the right specialisation helps reach personal goals with real job options. After qualifying, teachers are not limited to one path. Many move into different roles over time, depending on experience, further study, and their ability to take on responsibility.
Common teaching career paths include:
- Foundation and Senior Phase teaching: Involves working with younger learners and supporting their early academic and social development.
- Further Education and Training teaching: Covers high school subjects and preparation for further study.
- Academic leadership roles: Includes positions such as Head of Department.
- Education management: Experienced teachers may move into school leadership roles.
Read More: Why is Teaching a Good Career Choice in South Africa?
Accreditation and Recognition of Teaching Qualifications
Accreditation ensures that a teaching qualification meets national education standards. In South Africa, recognised programmes are aligned with regulatory bodies and allow graduates to register as professional teachers.
Selecting an accredited institution is essential. It helps maintain the worth of your qualification and makes it easier to move up in your teaching career.
Certain points you must consider:
- CHE accreditation: Checks if the programme meets higher education standards.
- SAQA registration: Ensures national recognition of the qualification.
- Department of Higher Education registration: Confirms institutional approval.
- Professional registration eligibility: Allows graduates to register with SACE.
Salary Expectations for Teachers in South Africa
Teacher salaries in South Africa are not the same for everyone. Pay often depends on how long someone has been teaching, their qualifications, and the position they hold. Most teachers start on a lower salary, but their earnings increase as they gain experience. Positions with added responsibility usually come with better pay.
Teaching is generally seen as a stable career rather than one with fast salary jumps. Many people choose it because income grows steadily over time and offers long-term security. Glassdoor data shows that teachers in South Africa earn an average monthly base salary of about ZAR 20,000. Most salaries typically fall between ZAR 16,000 and ZAR 25,000 per month (January 2026).
The main factors that impact teachers’ salaries are:
- Years of experience: Teachers usually earn more as they move through official pay scales over time.
- Qualification level: Additional or higher qualifications can lead to improved salary prospects.
- Post level: Senior and leadership roles are paid at higher levels.
- Type of school: Salary structures can differ between public and private schools.
Tips for Choosing the Right Teaching Programme
Selecting the right programme is an important step when planning a teaching career. Students should consider both personal goals and professional requirements before applying. A well-chosen programme supports skill development and long-term employability.
Researching institutions and programme structures helps avoid future challenges. It also ensures alignment with career expectations.
A few simple things to keep in mind when choosing a programme:
- Accreditation matters: Always check that the programme is officially recognised.
- Go through the programme content carefully: Some programmes are more theory-based, while others include practical classroom exposure, which many students find useful.
- Think about how long the programme runs: The teaching course duration should fit your personal situation and how soon you want to start working.
- Know the entry requirements beforehand: Being clear on what is needed can help avoid unnecessary delays or rejected applications.
Read More: BEd vs PGCE: Which Teaching Qualification is Right for You?
Explore Our Other Programmes
Conclusion
Choosing teaching as a field of study in South Africa can lead to a clear and purposeful career. Teaching programmes are structured to guide students step by step, from meeting entry requirements to gaining practical classroom experience. With schools continuing to need qualified educators, teaching offers steady work and clear opportunities to grow over time.
Regenesys Education offers accredited teaching programmes that focus on real classroom preparation, not just theory. Looking to study teaching in South Africa? Visit Regenesys Education’s website to explore the available programmes and check the entry requirements.
FAQs
Can teaching qualifications be used outside South Africa?
Recognition depends on the country, but accredited South African qualifications are more likely to be accepted internationally.
How many years does it take to study teaching in South Africa?
Most Bachelor of Education programmes take four years to complete. Postgraduate options usually take one year after a completed degree.
What qualifications do you need to study teaching?
To study teaching, you need a National Senior Certificate that meets the minimum APS score and subject requirements set by the institution offering the programme.
Which subjects are most in demand for teaching?
Subjects like Mathematics, Science, and Business Studies are often in higher demand, as fewer qualified teachers are available in these areas.
Is teaching a stable career in South Africa?
Yes. The teaching field offers long-term stability, with consistent demand and clear career advancement.
