FET Phase School Teacher (Grades 10-12) Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Teaches one or more subjects at FET phase, including subjects intended to prepare students for employment in specific occupational areas as well as vocational
What does a FET Phase School Teacher (Grades 10-12) do?
FET Phase School Teachers teach specialist subjects to learners in Grades 10 to 12. They plan lessons, teach subject content, assess learning, maintain records, support learner development and work within South African curriculum and professional standards.
How to become a FET Phase School Teacher (Grades 10-12) in South Africa
1. Complete an appropriate professional teaching qualification. A common initial route for Senior Phase and FET teaching is a four-year Bachelor of Education specialising in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching. Another recognised route can be an appropriate degree followed by a professional teaching qualification such as a PGCE, subject to current institutional and regulatory requirements.
2. Build the required teaching-subject specialisation. FET teachers need sufficient disciplinary and pedagogical preparation for the subjects they intend to teach.
3. Register with SACE. South African law requires educators covered by the SACE Act to register with the South African Council for Educators before appointment to a teaching post.
Official Requirements
Professional registration: Educators must register with the South African Council for Educators (SACE) before appointment to a teaching post. SACE states that the minimum entry level for full registration is a three-year post-matric professional education qualification / Diploma in Education at NQF Level 6, while current initial teacher education commonly includes a four-year BEd.
Pilot qualification: Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching, SAQA ID 96458, NQF Level 7, 480 credits. This is one institution-specific example and is not the only recognised teaching qualification.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
Choose school subjects strategically because FET teaching is subject-specialised. Check the admission and subject requirements of the university you intend to attend, and confirm that the programme is an appropriate professional teaching qualification. Keep academic records and teaching-practice documentation for later SACE registration.
Useful school subjects
- English / language of learning and teaching
- Subjects related to the teaching specialisation
- Mathematics and Sciences for relevant teaching specialisations
- Strong academic literacy
Skills that may help
- Subject knowledge
- Lesson planning
- Classroom management
- Assessment and feedback
- Communication
- Learner support
- Record keeping
- Professional ethics