South Africa faces a major shortage of qualified teachers in subjects such as mathematics, science, and technology.
To address this challenge, the TEACH South Africa programme recruits university graduates with strong STEM backgrounds and places them in under-resourced schools.
The programme allows graduates to start teaching even if they did not originally study education at university.
Participants are placed in schools for a two year teaching placement while receiving training and mentorship.
During this period they gain classroom experience and can work toward a professional teaching qualification.
The programme is designed for graduates who want to contribute to improving education while building a meaningful career.
What is the TEACH South Africa programme?
The TEACH South Africa programme is a graduate leadership initiative focused on improving learning outcomes in schools.
The organisation recruits talented graduates in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and English to teach in underserved communities.
Participants are known as TEACH Ambassadors.
These ambassadors are placed in schools for a period of two years.
During this time they teach gateway subjects such as mathematics and science.
The programme also provides leadership training and ongoing support.
Since its launch in 2009 the programme has placed hundreds of graduates in schools across all nine provinces in South Africa.
The goal is to strengthen education in subjects that are critical for the country’s economic development.
Who can apply for TEACH South Africa?
The programme is open to graduates with strong academic backgrounds in STEM subjects.
Applicants must meet several eligibility requirements.
These include the following.
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You must have a Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field.
- You must submit academic transcripts and a curriculum vitae.
- You must be willing to relocate to a school placement anywhere in the country.
The programme specifically targets graduates who did not study education but want to transition into teaching.
This creates an alternative pathway into the teaching profession.
Do you need a teaching qualification to join TEACH South Africa?
No. Applicants do not need a teaching qualification when applying.
Graduates with degrees in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or related fields can apply directly.
Successful applicants receive a temporary teaching certificate issued through the South African Council for Educators which allows them to teach during the programme.
Participants are encouraged to complete a Postgraduate Certificate in Education while teaching.
Completing a PGCE allows ambassadors to become fully qualified teachers after the programme ends.
This pathway enables science graduates to enter education without starting a new undergraduate degree.
What subjects do TEACH ambassadors usually teach?
TEACH ambassadors mainly teach subjects where South African schools face critical shortages.
These subjects are often referred to as gateway subjects.
Common teaching areas include the following.
- Physical Sciences.
- Life Sciences.
- Mathematics.
- Technology.
- English language.
These subjects are important for improving academic performance and preparing learners for university and technical careers.
Schools in disadvantaged communities often struggle to recruit teachers for these subjects.
The TEACH programme helps fill this gap.
How do you apply for the TEACH South Africa programme?
Applications are completed online through the official TEACH South Africa website.
Applicants must complete a detailed online form and upload supporting documents.
The application process usually follows these steps.
- Visit the official ambassador application page.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload academic transcripts and a CV.
- Submit the application before the closing date.
- Participate in the recruitment and selection process if shortlisted.
The programme uses a multi stage recruitment process to evaluate candidates’ leadership potential and commitment to education.
Shortlisted candidates may complete interviews or additional assessments.
When do TEACH South Africa applications close?
The programme opens applications once each year. For the current intake the official closing date was 27 February 2026.
This deadline applies to candidates who want to join the next programme cycle.
Graduates interested in the 2027 intake should monitor the TEACH South Africa website during the next application period.
Applications submitted after the deadline are normally not considered.
Students are encouraged to apply early to avoid technical problems with the application portal.
What happens after you join the TEACH South Africa programme?
Successful applicants become TEACH Ambassadors and begin their teaching placements.
Ambassadors are placed in public schools where there is a need for science, mathematics, or language teachers. The placement lasts for two years.
During this time participants receive structured support and development opportunities.
These include the following.
- Teacher training and induction programmes.
- Ongoing mentorship and classroom support.
- Professional development workshops.
- Leadership development activities.
Participants are also expected to lead a community or school initiative known as a legacy project.
These projects help improve the school environment or support learners through extracurricular activities.
The experience prepares graduates to become professional teachers or leaders in education and social development.
