Education
Teacher
You shape how the next generation thinks, learns and believes in itself.
- Starting salary
- R18 000 – R26 000
- Job demand
- Always needed
- Key subjects
- Your teaching subjects, English
What do they do?
You shape how the next generation thinks, learns and believes in itself.
A day in the life
You plan lessons, teach classes, mark work, support learners and communicate with parents.
Skills you need
- Explaining
- Patience
- Creativity
- Leadership
School subjects that help
- Your teaching subjects
- English
- Life Orientation
How long does it take?
4 main steps after school, usually 3–6 years of study, plus practical experience.
Study path
- 1High school
- 2BEd (4 yrs) or degree + PGCE
- 3SACE registration
- 4Teacher
- 5HOD / principal
Ways in: University degree · Funza Lushaka bursary · Distance study (Unisa). University is not the only route.
Where can I study?
- University of Pretoria
- University of South Africa
- North-West University
- University of Johannesburg
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- University of the Free State
- Walter Sisulu University
- University of Venda
Admission requirements differ by institution, always check the official website.
What can I earn?
Entry level
R18 000 – R26 000
per month (estimate)
Mid career
R28 000 – R42 000
per month (estimate)
Experienced / senior
R45 000 – R75 000+
per month (estimate)
Estimated salary ranges only. Salaries vary based on experience, qualification, industry, location and employer.
How to start preparing now
- • Tutor a younger learner
- • Lead a study group
- • Practise explaining hard ideas simply
Try this career
Teach a 10-minute lesson to a younger learner and ask for honest feedback.
Related careers
Like this field but not sure about this exact job? Try these.
This tool is designed to help you explore career possibilities. It does not replace professional career counselling, school guidance or official university admission requirements.