Becoming a teaching assistant is a practical way to start or grow a career in education. It offers valuable hands-on classroom experience while allowing you to support learners and teachers in meaningful ways.
Whether you are looking to gain classroom experience or work towards a full teaching qualification, this role will help you learn, develop practical skills and grow in your professional career.
In this article, we explain about the teaching assistant jobs in South Africa, required qualifications, salary, career path, growth opportunities, application process and more.
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What Is A Teaching Assistant (TA) In South Africa?
As the name suggests, a teaching assistant supports the lead teachers by helping learners with classwork, preparing materials and supervising small groups. TAs often work across phases – from pre-primary through to further education and training. They may focus on learning support, aftercare or classroom management.
The role varies by school type and employer, so duties are flexible and depend on the setting. Many TAs also help with marking, classroom displays, and one-to-one support for learners who need extra attention. Working as a TA is a proven way to build classroom experience before pursuing full teacher registration.
Below are common features of a teaching assistant role:
- Work directly with learners to support understanding and participation.
- Assist with lesson preparation and practical classroom tasks.
- Support learners with special needs under teacher guidance.
- Supervise learners during breaks, activities, and small-group work.
Read more on What is a Bachelor of Education (BEd)? Scope, Eligibility, Duration & Career Opportunities.
Roles & Responsibilities of a Teaching Assistant in South Africa
Teaching assistants support students and help with daily classroom tasks so lessons run smoothly and learning improves. They may work with small groups, adjust learning materials for different students, and share simple feedback with the teacher. TAs also contribute to record-keeping, prepare classroom materials, and help ensure a safe learning environment.
In schools with learners who have barriers to learning, TAs often assist with differentiation and classroom behaviour strategies. Effective TAs communicate clearly with teachers & guardians and show sensitivity to diverse cultural backgrounds in the South African classroom.
Below are the key responsibilities of a teaching assistant:
- Small-group instruction and individual learner support.
- Preparing resources, displays and learning materials.
- Monitoring learner progress and reporting to teachers.
- Assist teachers in day-to-day classroom activities.
Types of Teaching Assistant Jobs in South Africa
There are many types of teaching assistant (TA) job roles across the education sector, depending on the age group, school setting and level of support required. Some positions are part-time or short-term, such as aftercare roles, while others are permanent posts in larger schools. TA roles also differ by phase, from pre-primary to FET, and by employer type, including public and private schools, NGOs, and early childhood centres.
Understanding these options helps you choose roles that match your experience, interests and available working hours. It also allows you to apply more confidently to positions that support your long-term career goals.
Common teaching assistant roles include:
- Pre-primary and foundation phase classroom assistants
- Teaching assistants who support teachers during the school day
- Aftercare and extracurricular programme assistants
- Special needs assistants and learning support helpers
- Temporary or substitute teaching assistants in regular schools
Read more on Special Needs Education: Should You Choose BEd Inclusive Education as a Specialisation?
Qualifications For Becoming A Teaching Assistant In South Africa
Qualifications vary by employer, but most schools expect at least a National Senior Certificate (Matric) and a valid right to work in South Africa. Many private schools prefer applicants with an education-related diploma or relevant short programmes. For roles that support curriculum delivery or learners with barriers to learning, higher NQF-level qualifications are an advantage.
If you are looking for the specific qualification requirements for a teaching assistant, public sector placements sometimes refer to DBE guidance. This guidance sets minimum academic and suitability checks for education assistants.
Below are common qualifications and documentation requirements:
- National Senior Certificate (Matric) or equivalent.
- Police clearance and references or testimonials.
- First aid certificate or basic child care training.
- An additional certificate or diploma for specialised roles.
Salary of Teaching Assistants in South Africa
Salary for teaching assistants varies widely by province, employer and experience. Entry-level or part-time aftercare assistants may earn modest monthly pay. On the other hand, full-time TAs in private schools or specialised roles can command higher salaries. The average base pay for a teaching assistant in South Africa, according to Glassdoor, as of January 2026, is ZAR 5,000 per month, with salaries ranging from ZAR 4,000 to ZAR 10,000 per month.
Reported averages differ across data sources. However, typical ranges start from low monthly rates for casual work up to more competitive annual pay in private or specialist positions.
Below are the key factors affecting salaries:
- School type – public or private
- Full-time roles, part-time positions, or temporary contracts
- Specialised skills such as learning support or language support
- Location and local cost of living
Read more on Top 7 Time Management Tips for Working Adults Pursuing a BEd Degree.
Career Path And Growth Opportunities
A TA role can lead to classroom teacher training, specialised learning support careers or school administrative roles. Many TAs use their experience to enrol for a formal teaching qualification, such as the Bachelor of Education (BEd) and later apply for teacher registration.
Working as a TA gives practical classroom exposure that strengthens applications for higher qualifications and teaching posts. Career growth may include roles such as learning support coordinator, phase head or curriculum assistant. Training in digital and AI teaching tools is increasingly valuable, and short programmes or degree modules that include AI skills can give a competitive edge.
Below are typical next steps:
- Enrol for a BEd or a recognised teaching diploma.
- Complete specialised programmes in inclusive education or curriculum support.
- Gain South African Council for Educators (SACE) registration when qualifying as a teacher.
- Build experience through varied placements and CPD.
Where to Find Teaching Assistant Jobs in South Africa?
Start with major job boards and school websites, and expand to LinkedIn, community groups and local education offices. Many schools advertise TA roles on online platforms such as Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and specialised education sites.
Private school groups often post vacancies on their careers pages, while public or government-related placements may be listed via provincial education departments. Networking with local schools, after-school programmes and NGOs can also reveal unadvertised roles. Use keyword searches and set alerts to receive new postings.
Below are some effective job sources:
- Online job platforms: Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor and Adzuna.
- School and group career pages.
- Local education department or government placement notices.
- Community centres and NGO listings.
How to Apply for Teaching Assistant Jobs?
Apply with a clear CV that shows your classroom experience, references, and relevant certificates. Adjust your cover letter to match the school and the grade or phase you are applying for. Include certified copies of your ID and qualifications if asked. Prepare for interviews by thinking of real examples of how you helped in the classroom and supported learners.
Many employers ask for police clearance and child protection checks, so prepare these documents early. When applying, highlight your experience with inclusive teaching, behaviour management, and any first aid or early childhood training.
Challenges Faced by Teaching Assistants in South Africa
Teaching assistants often have to deal with a heavy workload, limited pay and varying levels of professional support. Resource constraints in some schools mean TAs must adapt with limited materials or large class sizes. Role clarity can also be an issue where responsibilities overlap with those of teachers or non-teaching staff.
Access to continuous professional development varies by employer, which can limit career progression unless the TA seeks formal study. Despite challenges, many find the work rewarding and a good foundation for a teaching career.
Read more on Challenges & Prospects for Bachelor of Education Graduates.
Tips To Succeed As A Teaching Assistant In South Africa
Develop strong communication & organisational habits and show initiative within the scope of the TA role. Build trusting relationships with teachers, learners & parents and seek feedback regularly. Keep a portfolio of work, short CPD certificates and testimonial letters to support job applications.
Consider short programmes in inclusive education, classroom technology and child safety to strengthen your profile. Finally, plan a clear path if you aim to move from TA to a registered teacher by enrolling in recognised teacher education programmes.
Below are practical success tips to follow:
- Keep learning through short programmes and practical workshops.
- Maintain records of achievements and references.
- Volunteer for varied classroom activities to gain experience.
- Build a network with other teachers and local schools.
Read more on Bachelor of Education Applications Open for 2026.
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Conclusion
Working as a teaching assistant offers hands-on experience and a pathway into teaching or specialist support roles. If you are serious about progressing, consider a formal study such as the Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching programme offered by Regenesys Education.
This programme combines practical classroom skills with pedagogy and includes AI modules at no additional cost. This degree can prepare you for classroom registration and wider career opportunities in South African education.
Contact us to speak with a career adviser today to plan the qualification steps that match your career goals.
FAQs
What are the requirements for an assistant teacher in South Africa?
Minimum matric is commonly required, along with police clearance and references. Higher NQF qualifications are an advantage.
How much do teaching assistants earn in South Africa?
The average monthly base salary for a teaching assistant in South Africa is approximately ZAR 5,000, with typical earnings ranging from ZAR 4,000 to ZAR 10,000 per month.
What is the highest-paying position for teacher assistants?
Specialist learning support roles in private or international schools and senior support coordinator posts typically pay the most.
What qualifications are needed for teaching assistant jobs in South Africa?
Matric is the minimum for many roles. Certificates or diplomas in education, early childhood or inclusive practice improve prospects.
Is it hard to become a TA?
No – many TA roles are accessible with a matric and a willingness to learn. Progression to teacher registration requires further study and practical experience.
