Teaching has long been regarded as one of the most meaningful and stable professions in South Africa. The country faces a significant teacher shortage, particularly in the Senior Phase and FET levels, covering Grades 7 to 12, for high-demand school subjects 2025. The Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching addresses this gap by equipping future teachers with subject knowledge, teaching strategies, and practical experience aligned with the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS).
With a growing population of learners, evolving curriculum standards, and changing skill demands in the workforce, it is critical for prospective teachers to align their training with in-demand teaching subjects in South Africa.
In this article, we will explore the teaching subjects in demand in South Africa for 2025, explain where teachers are needed most, and provide insights for those pursuing a teaching career through the Regenesys BEd qualification.
Table of Contents
Top 5 In-Demand Subjects
South Africa’s education system places a strong emphasis on subjects that contribute to national development and economic growth. These teaching subjects in demand in South Africa meet workforce demands and also equip learners with critical skills for the future. For those planning to pursue the Regenesys Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching, aligning with these subjects can significantly improve employability and impact.
Listed below are the teaching subjects in demand in South Africa and their importance:
- Mathematics: Supports critical thinking, problem-solving, and preparation for STEM careers.
- Physical Science: Required for entry into health sciences, engineering, and technology fields.
- Information Technology: Addresses South Africa’s digital skills gap and prepares learners for tech-based careers.
- Business Studies: Fosters entrepreneurial thinking and financial literacy among learners.
- English and Home Languages: Enhances communication, comprehension, and academic performance across all subjects.
These teaching subjects in demand in South Africa in 2025 reflect national education priorities and create career pathways that are aligned with both learner success and broader societal needs. By focusing on these areas, future teachers can position themselves as in-demand teachers ready to shape South Africa’s future.
Shortage in Maths & Science
One of the most pressing challenges in South African education is the continued shortage of qualified professionals for teaching subjects in demand in South Africa, such as science and mathematics. These subjects are consistently identified by the Department of Basic Education as high-priority areas due to widespread learner underperformance and a lack of trained teachers.
Mathematics and Science are considered gateway subjects for high-demand careers in fields such as engineering, health sciences, and technology. However, many schools, particularly in rural and under-resourced communities struggle to appoint and retain qualified teachers in these areas.
The Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching at Regenesys provides targeted training for aspiring Maths and Science teachers. The qualification helps future teachers develop both subject mastery and classroom strategies tailored to these critical fields.
The ongoing shortage in STEM teaching subjects in demand in South Africa can be attributed to several key factors, such as:
- Retirement of experienced STEM teachers without a sufficient pool of replacements.
- Declining learner interest in Mathematics and Science, often due to fear of poor performance.
- Insufficient output of qualified Maths and Science teachers from higher education institutions.
Addressing the teacher shortage SA continues to face in STEM education will require dedicated, well-prepared graduates who recognise the value of teaching these subjects and are committed to making a national impact. Students who enrol for the Regenesys Bachelor of Education degree can specialise in Science and Technology, and teach this high-demand subject in secondary schools.
Technology & Coding as Teaching Subjects
Digital transformation has reshaped education, placing Information Technology (IT), Computer Applications Technology (CAT), and coding among the fastest-growing teaching subjects in demand in South Africa. As the national curriculum evolves, teachers who can deliver digital skills are increasingly sought after across both urban and rural schools.
The government’s teaching priorities have shifted to include:
- Digital literacy from Grade 4 onwards
- Coding and robotics as part of the CAPS curriculum
- Smart classroom integration and e-learning tools
The Regeneys Bachelor of Education (BEd) qualification equips future teachers with the skills to integrate digital technologies into their classrooms effectively.
Teachers qualified in these technology-based subjects are playing a growing role in improving digital access and preparing learners for careers in ICT, engineering, and innovation-driven sectors.
Language & Literature Needs
In a diverse and multilingual country like South Africa, language education plays a foundational role. As a result, language and literature are among the top teaching subjects in demand in South Africa, especially for teachers fluent in both English and indigenous languages.
Language subjects help learners improve:
- Reading comprehension and writing skills
- Verbal communication across academic disciplines
- Cultural and linguistic understanding in diverse classrooms
Teachers who specialise in the following areas are increasingly needed:
- English First Additional Language (FAL)
- Home Languages
- Afrikaans, isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sepedi, and Setswana
Regenesys’ Bachelor of Education (BEd) qualification prepares future teachers to meet these language teaching needs. By supporting instruction in both English and African languages, the qualification aligns with national goals to build inclusive, linguistically responsive classrooms across public and private schools.
Read more on Teaching English in Multilingual Classrooms: What Regenesys BEd Students Learn? here
Vocational Subject Teachers
South Africa’s National Development Plan prioritises technical and vocational education to reduce unemployment and promote entrepreneurship. As a result, vocational teaching has become one of the fastest-growing teaching subjects in demand in South Africa, particularly in the Further Education and Training (FET) phase.
In-demand vocational teaching subjects include:
- Agricultural Studies
- Engineering Graphics and Design
- Tourism
- Consumer Studies
These subjects equip learners with practical, work-ready skills and offer alternatives to academic university pathways. There is a rising need for teachers with both teaching qualifications and real-world experience in these fields.
Special Education & Inclusive Teaching
Inclusive teaching has become a top priority in South Africa’s education system. As schools commit to accommodating diverse learning needs, special needs education stands out as one of the most urgent teaching subjects in demand in South Africa.
Both urban and rural schools face a shortage of qualified special needs teachers. Teachers trained in these areas play a vital role in supporting learners with disabilities and removing barriers to academic achievement.
The Regenesys BEd qualification incorporates inclusive education practices throughout its curriculum, equipping future teachers to foster accessible and equitable classrooms across the country.
Urban vs Rural Subject Needs
While all regions in the country require skilled teachers, rural schools face the greatest shortage in critical subjects. Many of the teaching subjects in demand in South Africa, such as Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and indigenous languages, remain under-resourced and under-taught in these communities.
Some of the main reasons for this teacher shortage in SA include:
- Inadequate infrastructure and limited teaching resources
- A shortage of qualified teachers willing to relocate
- A high demand for mother-tongue instruction and culturally relevant education
In many instances, graduates who are willing to meet the rural area demand qualify for government incentives and priority placements. The Regenesys BEd qualification prepares students for these roles by offering practical teaching experience through our mandatory Work Integrated Learning module. This approach not only addresses educational inequality but also builds stronger local communities.
How to Choose a Subject Specialisation?
Choosing a subject specialisation is a critical step in your teaching career. It should reflect both your personal interests and the teaching subjects in demand in South Africa, especially those aligned with national development priorities and long-term employment prospects.
When deciding on your teaching focus, consider the following:
- Research which subjects are facing critical shortages in South Africa
- Reflect on your own passion, strengths, and academic background
- Examine job opportunities, salary trends, and placement prospects
At Regenesys, the Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching offers two specialisation streams:
- Science and Technology
- Business and Management
Both specialisations are aligned with the CAPS curriculum and respond directly to government-stated needs. By choosing one of these paths, Regenesys students gain focused subject-matter training and practical teaching experience, preparing them to meet the country’s real-world classroom demands.
October Intake Focus Areas
The October teacher intake is a valuable opportunity for aspiring professionals who want to begin their BEd studies without waiting for the January academic cycle. Applications close on 29 September 2025, and places are limited, so early submission is strongly advised.
Regenesys School of Education offers flexible contact and online study formats, making it possible for working professionals and recent school-leavers alike to start their teaching journey immediately.
Read more on What is a Bachelor of Education (BEd)? Scope, Eligibility, Duration & Career Opportunities here
Conclusion
The demand for qualified teachers in South Africa is increasing, especially in high-impact subjects such as Mathematics, Science, Technology, Languages, and Vocational Studies. These teaching subjects in demand in South Africa represent an opportunity for aspiring teachers to build a meaningful career while addressing the country’s educational gaps.
The Regenesys Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and FET Teaching offers aspiring teachers the training, qualifications, and ethical grounding needed to succeed in these high-demand areas. Whether you aim to teach in a rural school, specialise in STEM, or support inclusive classrooms, Regenesys prepares you for a future where your teaching matters.
Visit the Regenesys website today to learn more about our Bachelor of Education qualification. Get in touch with us today!
Senior Phase and FET Teaching Subjects in Demand: 2025 Update – FAQs
What are the teaching subjects in demand in South Africa?
Some teaching subjects in demand in South Africa include Mathematics, Physical Science, Information Technology, Business Studies, and English and Home Languages. These areas are aligned with national development and economic priorities
Why is there a shortage of Maths and Science teachers?
There is a persistent shortage in these teaching subjects in demand in South Africa due to retiring STEM teachers, low student interest in the subjects, and insufficient teacher training output. These subjects are critical for future careers in technology, engineering, and health sciences.
Is technology a growing focus in South African classrooms?
Yes. Subjects like Information Technology, Computer Applications Technology, and Coding are rapidly gaining importance. The national curriculum now includes digital literacy, smart classrooms, and robotics from intermediate grades.
What is the role of language teachers in South Africa?
Language teachers, particularly those who can teach English, Home Languages, and indigenous languages such as isiZulu, Sepedi, and Setswana, are crucial for improving literacy and supporting multilingual education.
Are special education and inclusive teaching in demand?
Yes. In-demand teachers trained in inclusive education, remedial methods, and learner support are urgently needed, especially to accommodate learners with disabilities in both urban and rural schools.
Are there different subject needs in rural vs. urban schools?
Rural schools face greater shortages, especially in Maths, Science, and indigenous languages. Graduates willing to meet the government teaching needs in SA may qualify for placement incentives and government support.
How do I choose a subject specialisation in teaching?
Select based on a mix of personal interest, national demand, and career outlook. Regenesys supports this decision through structured specialisation in Science & Technology or Business & Management within its BEd qualification.
When is the deadline for the October BEd intake at Regenesys?
Applications close on 29 September 2025 for the October intake. This allows students to begin their BEd without waiting for the January start. Early application is strongly encouraged due to limited seats.
