Top 10+ Teaching Courses for Primary Schools in South Africa

If you’ve ever dreamed of shaping young minds and making a real difference in children’s lives, then teaching courses for primary school are a great place to start.

In South Africa, where education plays such a big role in shaping the future, the need for caring, creative, and skilled primary school teachers has never been greater. It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out or you’re looking to grow as a teacher, there are so many amazing courses to help you get there.

These teaching courses for primary school aren’t just about learning the basics—they’re about helping you connect with kids, spark their curiosity, and build their confidence so they can thrive.

The best part? South Africa has fantastic programs that combine practical experience with solid teaching knowledge, so you’ll feel completely ready to step into the classroom. Now, in this article, we will be talking about these courses – the 10 top teaching courses for primary school in South Africa.

Teaching in South Africa
- Are Primary School Teachers in Demand in South Africa?
- Can You Become a Teacher Without a Teaching Degree in South Africa?
What Subjects Are Needed to Become a Teacher in South Africa?
Teaching Courses for Primary Schools in South Africa
Can I Study Teaching Online in South Africa?
How Long Does a Teaching Course Take in South Africa?
Teaching Courses for Primary Schools Requirements in South Africa
How Do I Become a Primary School Teacher in South Africa?
Which University is Best for Teaching in South Africa?
FAQs
Conclusion
References
Recommendations

Teaching in South Africa

Teaching in South Africa offers both exciting opportunities and some significant challenges. On the positive side, the demand for teachers remains strong, particularly in areas like Mathematics, Science, Technology, and languages.

There’s also a growing need for qualified teachers in the Foundation and Intermediate Phases, as well as in rural schools, which often struggle to attract educators.

If you specialize in these areas or are willing to teach in underserved regions, you could make a big difference while finding stable employment.

However, the profession also comes with challenges. Large class sizes, especially in urban areas, can make teaching demanding, while rural schools may face issues like insufficient resources and multi-grade classrooms.

Teachers in South Africa also report concerns about low pay compared to the workload, limited opportunities for advancement, and difficulties in addressing the diverse needs of students in underprivileged areas.

Read: Best 15 FET College Courses in South Africa | Cost and Requirements

Are Primary School Teachers in Demand in South Africa?

Primary school teachers are in significant demand in South Africa due to increasing enrollment rates and the need to address teacher attrition.

According to projections by the Department of Basic Education, the annual output of teachers must rise from around 30,540 currently to 59,034 by 2030 to meet future demand. This increase is essential to keep up with population growth and improve learner-educator ratios, which are higher than ideal in many areas.

Teacher attrition rates, especially among younger educators, further exacerbate the demand. Many teachers leave the profession due to retirement, better opportunities, or work-related challenges, creating gaps that are difficult to fill without accelerating teacher training programs and retention strategies

Can You Become a Teacher Without a Teaching Degree in South Africa?

No, you can’t legally become a teacher in South Africa without a teaching degree. To teach at a primary school, you’ll need either a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) or a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).

These qualifications ensure that you are properly trained and prepared for the challenges of teaching.

So, while you may have a passion for teaching and a lot of practical knowledge, you still need to meet these official requirements to legally teach in schools. It’s important to have the right education to give students the best learning experience possible

Also, read: Top 3 Months Short Courses in South Africa | Cost and Requirements

What Subjects Are Needed to Become a Teacher in South Africa?

To become a teacher in South Africa, especially at the primary school level, you usually need a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree. This will cover subjects like English, Afrikaans, Mathematics, Life Sciences, and Social Sciences.

If you plan to teach older students, you’ll also focus on subjects like History, Geography, or specialized areas such as Art, Music, or Physical Education. The subjects you’ll study depend on the grade level you want to teach.

What’s important, though, is that your studies will also focus on teaching methods and pedagogy, making sure you’re equipped to manage a classroom and engage students effectively

Teaching Courses for Primary Schools in South Africa

See the best teaching courses for primary schools in South Africa:

Certificate in Early Childhood Education
Bachelor of Education (BEd) Foundation Phase
Bachelor of Education (BEd) Intermediate Phase
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
Higher Certificate in Education
National Diploma in Education
Certificate in Montessori Education
Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)
Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Special Education Needs
Advanced Certificate in Education (ACE) in Primary School Education
Inclusive Education

1. Certificate in Early Childhood Education

A Certificate in Early Childhood Education is one of the best choices if you want to focus on teaching primary school kids, especially in their early years.

This course helps you understand how young children learn and grow, giving you the tools to create the right learning environment for them. It covers everything from child development to teaching strategies, and how to plan lessons that engage kids in a fun and effective way.

You’ll learn about the importance of play, social skills, and how to support children’s emotional well-being.

The Foundation for Professional Development offers this course at NQF 5 Level at R 35000.00 (inc VAT). R 350.00 with an Application Fee (inc VAT).

2. Bachelor of Education (BEd) Foundation Phase

The Bachelor of Education (BEd) Foundation Phase is a fantastic course for those wanting to teach younger children in the primary school years (grades R-3).

This degree prepares you to teach essential subjects like literacy, numeracy, and life skills, and gives you the skills to create engaging, age-appropriate lessons. You’ll also learn about child development, classroom management, and how to support kids’ emotional and social growth.

The University of Johannesburg offers this course, which is a great choice for anyone passionate about shaping young minds.

The cost can range between R53,120 per year, with a first minimum payment for registration of R5,560 for students not living in an on-campus residence and R9,270 for students living in on-campus residences. This payment covers the registration fee and ICT levy.

3. Bachelor of Education (BEd) Intermediate Phase

The Bachelor of Education (BEd) Intermediate Phase is perfect for those who want to teach learners in the middle primary school grades (4-6). In this course, you’ll get deep into subjects like languages, mathematics, and natural sciences.

You’ll also learn how to create engaging lessons and manage a classroom effectively. Plus, you’ll gain skills in helping kids develop academically and emotionally.

The University of Johannesburg offers this program, and it’s a solid choice for future teachers. The 2025 program fe for a Bachelor of Education (BEd) at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) is R133,440 for 360 credits, or approximately R370 per credit.

Also, just like in the Bachelor of Education (BEd) Foundation Phase, the first minimum payment for registration residences is R5,560 for students not living in on-campus residences and R9,270 for students living in on-campus residences.

There’s also a non-refundable ICT levy of R430 added annually to tuition fees. First-time students may need to purchase start-up equipment that can cost between R6,000 and R9,000, depending on the program.

4. Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

The Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) is a fantastic pathway for anyone with a degree in another field who wants to become a teacher.

It’s perfect for teaching at primary school levels, equipping you with essential teaching strategies, classroom management skills, and a solid understanding of child psychology. Think of it as a bridge that transforms your existing qualifications into teaching credentials.

For example, the University of South Africa (UNISA) offers a PGCE program tailored for primary school teaching. The course includes modules on curriculum development, assessment techniques, and practical teaching experience. The cost of the course is not known by the school as you would need to book a request to get the details.

However, the course with an online application fee that costs R140. Applications for admission to limited undergraduate qualifications for the 2025 academic year are to be open from 13 to 27 January 2025.

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5. Higher Certificate in Education

Many times, people dream of becoming teachers but don’t know where to start. The Higher Certificate in Education is a perfect introduction to the teaching world, especially for primary schools.

It’s designed for those who want to gain foundational skills and knowledge in education. This course covers the basics of teaching methods, child development, and classroom practices, preparing you for further studies or even some entry-level teaching roles.

Stadio offers this course at R33,500, payable in 10 monthly instalments of R3,350.

6. National Diploma in Education

If you’ve ever thought about teaching young minds in a primary school, the National Diploma in Education is one of the best ways to get started. This course is all about building a strong foundation for teaching.

You’ll learn about child development, classroom management, lesson planning, and how to make learning fun and effective. It’s a hands-on course that mixes theory with practical experience, so you get to apply what you learn in real classrooms.

CST College offers this course at R10,580, which includes a R1,580 registration and admin fee and 10 months of R900 monthly fees.

7. Certificate in Montessori Education

So when we say Montessori Education, we’re talking about a teaching method that focuses on giving children independence, respect, and the freedom to learn at their own pace.

A Certificate in Montessori Education trains you to work with young kids, usually from ages 2-12, using hands-on learning techniques. It’s perfect if you love the idea of helping kids explore the world on their terms, with guided support.

You’ll learn how to set up a classroom that promotes self-discovery, and how to use Montessori materials to engage kids in meaningful activities.

Montessori Centre South Africa offers this course at R8,000, which includes an R2,000 enrolment fee and R6,000 in instalments.

8. Certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)

So, when we talk about Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), we’re referring to a course that prepares you to teach English to people who don’t speak it as their first language.

It’s a great choice if you want to work in primary schools, especially in international settings or schools with students from different language backgrounds. The course covers how to plan lessons, manage a classroom, and make learning English fun and effective.

Wits University offers this course as a full-time course for R17 500. Classes are subject to a minimum of 8 students. The full-time course runs for 4 weeks and the part-time course runs for 12 weeks (120 hours).

9. Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Special Education Needs

If you’re looking to make a real difference in the classroom, a Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Special Education Needs is a great choice.

This course trains you to work with children who have various learning challenges, helping them thrive in school. You’ll learn strategies for teaching kids with disabilities, understand their unique needs, and get equipped with the tools to create an inclusive classroom.

It’s a highly rewarding path, especially if you’re passionate about making education accessible for everyone.

Africa Open Learning offers this course online. It is considered one of the top online teaching courses for primary school. The cost of the course has not been made public. You can contact the institution directly for fee details.

10. Advanced Certificate in Education (ACE) in Primary School Education

You could say that the Advanced Certificate in Education (ACE) in Primary School Education is perfect for teachers who want to deepen their skills and knowledge for teaching young children.

This course focuses on enhancing your understanding of child development, classroom management, and innovative teaching methods. It helps you create better learning experiences and tailor your teaching to meet the diverse needs of your students.

If you’re already a teacher and looking to upgrade your qualifications, this is a fantastic option.

Edutel offers this course at the NQF level 6 at R11,000 per year. It is a 2 year blended mode of delivery (distance with support).

11. Inclusive Education

When we talk about Inclusive Education for primary teachers, it’s all about learning how to teach children from diverse backgrounds and with different abilities in the same classroom.

This course helps you understand the needs of students who might have disabilities, learning challenges, or even come from different cultural backgrounds.

It’s about making sure every child feels valued and gets the support they need to succeed, no matter their circumstances. You’ll learn how to create adaptable lesson plans and use teaching methods that work for everyone.

You can take this course on Coursera for free. It is considered of the best free teaching courses for primary school.

Can I Study Teaching Online in South Africa?

Yes, you can study teaching online in South Africa! Universities like the University of the Free State offer online programs like Advanced Certificates in Teaching, which you can take in Foundation, Intermediate, or Senior Phase teaching.

UNISA also offers Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programs for teacher preparation, giving you flexibility in how you learn. These are some of the best online teaching courses for primary school.

If you’re interested in teaching English online, you’ll need a completed Bachelor’s degree, fluency in English (C2 level), a South African residency and ID number, and the ability to work from home. Online learning can open up opportunities for you to pursue teaching from anywhere!

How Long Does a Teaching Course Take in South Africa?

A teaching course for primary school teachers in South Africa takes 4 years to complete. As someone trying to become a primary school teacher in the country, you will need to complete a four-year Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree.

This course is your ticket to teaching kids in the Foundation Phase (grades R-3) or other primary school levels, depending on your specialization. The BEd covers everything from teaching methods to subject knowledge, making sure you’re ready for the classroom.

So, if you’re thinking about teaching, this is the usual path—and it takes about four years to get you fully qualified and into the field.

Teaching Courses for Primary Schools Requirements in South Africa

If you’re looking to study teaching in South Africa to become a primary school teacher, here’s a simple breakdown of what you’ll need:

Matric (Grade 12): You need to have completed Grade 12 with a pass, and it usually needs to be a Bachelor’s Degree pass.
Bachelor of Education (BEd): To become a primary school teacher, you typically need to do a 4-year Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree. This will prepare you to teach children in different grade phases.
Subjects: Depending on the phase you want to teach (Foundation Phase for younger children, Intermediate Phase for older ones), you’ll need to study subjects like English, Math, and Life Skills.
Language Skills: You may need to be proficient in languages like English or Afrikaans, depending on the region and the school.
GPA: Some universities might require a minimum GPA to enter their teaching programs.
Police Clearance: Since you’ll be working with kids, you’ll need to get a police clearance.

How Do I Become a Primary School Teacher in South Africa?

To become a primary school teacher in South Africa, follow these steps:

Complete your matric (Grade 12): Make sure you pass with a Bachelor’s Degree (Matric exemption) to qualify for university.
Enroll in a Bachelor of Education (BEd): This is a 4-year degree where you’ll choose a specialization in either the Foundation Phase (Grades R-3) or Intermediate Phase (Grades 4-6). You’ll learn the necessary skills and teaching methods to work with children in these age groups.
Choose your subjects: Depending on the phase you want to teach, you’ll study subjects like Mathematics, English, Life Skills, or even specific ones like Art or Music.
Complete practical training: During your studies, you’ll be required to do teaching practice at schools, where you’ll gain hands-on experience.
Obtain a police clearance: This is necessary as you’ll be working with children, ensuring safety and trust.
Graduate and register with SACE: Once you’ve completed your degree, you’ll need to register with the South African Council for Educators (SACE) to legally teach in schools.

Which University is Best for Teaching in South Africa?

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is a great choice for anyone looking to become a primary school teacher in South Africa, especially if you prefer the flexibility of distance learning.

They offer a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree that covers the Foundation Phase (grades R-3), Intermediate Phase (grades 4-6), and even Senior Phase. These programs are considered some of the best UNISA courses for teaching primary schools.

The programs are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments.

The costs vary, but being a public institution, it’s generally more affordable than many private universities. UNISA’s online learning resources and strong support system make it ideal for students who prefer self-paced education.

Read: Top 15 Colleges that offer Teaching Courses In South Africa

FAQs

Which course is best for teaching in South Africa?

The Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Primary Education is often considered the best choice for teaching in South Africa. It provides comprehensive training, covering curriculum, classroom management, and pedagogical skills, preparing teachers for diverse classrooms.

What is a primary school called in South Africa?

In South Africa, primary school is called “Foundation Phase” for grades R to 3, followed by “Intermediate Phase” for grades 4 to 6.

What is a primary school certificate called in South Africa?

In South Africa, the primary school certificate is known as the “National Senior Certificate” (NSC), which is awarded after completing Grade 12.

Conclusion

Teaching courses for primary schools in South Africa offer diverse opportunities to shape the future of young learners.

It doesn’t matter if you pursue a Bachelor of Education or a specialized course in inclusive education, each program is designed to equip you with the skills needed to thrive in the classroom.

These courses prepare you for the challenges and joys of teaching, making you a vital part of a child’s development. For those passionate about teaching, taking one of these courses is a step toward making a meaningful impact in education.