Adult Education Teacher Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Adult Literacy Teacher teaches adults in specific subject areas including reading, writing, life skills, financial literacy,environmental literacy in public or private educational settings or small group tuition in community settings.
What does a Adult Education Teacher do?
An Adult Education Teacher helps adults develop practical knowledge and foundational abilities through subjects such as reading, writing, life skills, financial literacy and environmental literacy. Teaching may take place in public or private educational settings, or through small-group tuition in community settings. The work involves making learning accessible to adult learners and connecting lessons to everyday needs.
Specialisations
How to become a Adult Education Teacher in South Africa
- Explore adult education and teaching pathways that match the learners and subjects you want to teach.
- Consider a listed direct pathway such as the Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching, or an appropriate General Education and Training Certificate for Adults or Adult Basic Education and Training certificate.
- Choose a qualification focus that supports the area in which you want to teach, such as early childhood development, information and communication technology, or small, medium and micro enterprises.
- Confirm the current qualification, provider, registration and any role-specific requirements with SAQA, an accredited provider and the prospective employer or educational setting.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
Relevant education can provide a foundation for teaching adults, but the most suitable route depends on the teaching context and subject area. The listed pathways include a Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching, as well as General Education and Training and Adult Basic Education and Training certificates. The bachelor’s degree is listed at NQF level 7 with 480 credits and is recorded as Reregistered until 30 June 2027. Verify current details before enrolling or applying.
Useful school subjects
- English
- Mathematical Literacy
- Accounting
- Business Studies
- Geography
- Life Sciences
Skills that may help
- Clear verbal and written communication
- Explaining reading and writing concepts
- Supporting adult learners with practical life skills
- Financial and environmental literacy knowledge
- Teaching individuals and small groups
- Adapting explanations to different adult learning needs
- Working effectively in community and educational settings