The Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa (ISASA) coordinates and lists teacher internship opportunities.
If you are looking at the current intake cycle (mid-2026), independent schools are actively recruiting for the 2027 academic year. Here is everything you need to know about how these internships work, what they offer, and current active openings.
1. How the ISASA Teacher Internship Works
Instead of just studying theory, these programs place you directly inside top independent schools. You complete your teaching degree via distance learning while working daily as an apprentice teacher.
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Target Candidates: Students currently enrolled in their 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year of a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) degree, or those holding a degree and registering for a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).
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What You Get: * A monthly stipend/salary.
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Financial assistance or full subsidies toward university tuition fees.
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On-campus accommodation and meals (often provided, especially by boarding schools).
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Hands-on mentorship from senior teachers.
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What is Expected: You will assist with classroom teaching, administrative duties, and play a highly active role in co-curricular activities (sports coaching, cultural clubs, or boarding house duties).
2. Active Vacancies & Deadlines
Because applications close soon, you should act quickly if you meet the requirements:
| School | Focus Phase / Subject | Application Deadline |
| St John’s College (Johannesburg) | Foundation & Intermediate Phase | 15 June 2026 |
| Kearsney College (KwaZulu-Natal) | Senior / FET Phase (Boys’ boarding school) | 17 June 2026 |
| Kingsmead College (Johannesburg) | FET Phase (Afrikaans, English, IT, Math, PhysSci, Consumer Studies) | 26 June 2026 |
| St Cyprian’s School (Cape Town) | All Phases (Girls’ school) | 1 July 2026 |
| Hilton College (KwaZulu-Natal) | PGCE Candidates (Vula Outreach Programme) | 17 July 2026 |
3. The SAMSTIP Initiative
If your focus is specifically on Mathematics and Science, ISASA also drives a specialized program called SAMSTIP (South African Mathematics and Science Teacher Intern Programme) in partnership with Investec and the Department of Basic Education.
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This program specifically funds and places Senior and FET phase teachers specializing in Math and Sciences, paying for UNISA degrees or PGCEs alongside school placement.
How to Apply
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Visit the official ISASA Vacancies Portal.
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Filter the category by “Internships”.
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Click on the specific school listing to access their unique application form or submission email (e.g., submitting your CV, academic transcript, and a valid Police Clearance Certificate).
Are you looking for a specific phase (like Foundation Phase vs. High School) or a particular province so we can narrow down the best fit?
