Geography and Social Sciences Teacher: HOD

Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa; Knysna; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

A vibrant co-educational day school in Knysna seeks a Geography and Social Sciences Teacher (HOD) to lead a dynamic academic team. The successful candidate must have a strong teaching background, SACE accreditation, and a commitment to fostering student engagement through innovative learning experiences. This role requires excellent interpersonal skills, a proven academic record, and a progressive approach to education.

Qualifications

• Proven academic record and experience teaching Geography at Grade 8-12 level.
• Current SACE accreditation required.
• Experience with field trips and GIS skills needed.

Responsibilities

• Develop innovative teaching methods and field trips for Geography and Social Sciences.
• Maintain academic standards and assess students' needs.
• Collaborate with academic teams and be involved in co-curricular programs.

Skills

GIS skills

Innovation in teaching

Critical thinking encouragement

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Administrative skills

Education

Professional teaching qualification

SACE accreditation

Job description

Geography and Social Sciences Teacher: HOD

Geography and Social Sciences Vacancy – HOD

A co-educational day school situated in the beautiful town of Knysna, on the Garden Route, seeks to appoint a vibrant, energetic Geography and Social Sciences Teacher (Head of Department) in the College to join a team of remarkable quality. The school has an outstanding academic record with a 100% pass rate in the IEB examination.

Geography & Social Sciences Teacher – HOD (Grade 8 -12)

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Possess a proven academic record and appropriate professional qualification and experience
• Have taught Geography and Social Science at Grade 8-12 level (IEB Matric marking would be an advantage)
• Have a current SACE accreditation
• Have a progressive approach to teaching Geography and Social Sciences
• Show a willingness to contextualise Georgraphy and Social Sciences in the real world, initiating and participating in field trips
• Have experience and be skilled in GIS (Geographic Information Systems) skills
• Maintain standards of academic excellence and identify areas that require intervention
• Encourage critical thinking and student engagement
• Be innovative in the use of technology to enhance learning and teaching
• Facilitate tailored learning experiences appropriate to the needs and demands for students to reach their true potential
• Possess excellent organisational and administrative skills
• Work collaboratively within the academic team to assess, contemplate, and enhance pedagogical methods
• Create assessments which deepen teaching and learning
• Able to build healthy relationships with students, parents and staff
• Have well-developed interpersonal and communication skills
• Be actively involved in the school’s co-curricular programme

The closing date for applications is Wednesday 30 June 2025. The starting date for this position is January 2026. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. If you have not heard from the school by Friday 1 August 2025 your application can be considered unsuccessful.

Oakhill School is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Prospective employees are obliged to confirm prior to employment that they have not been convicted of a sexual and/or criminal offence by providing the following current certificates: Criminal Clearance, Sexual Offenders Clearance and Child Protection Clearance.

Oakhill School, in line with POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act) will attempt to ensure the confidentiality of all applicants for this role. All reasonable measures will be in place to protect personal information but will be used in the recruitment, selection, and reporting process. By submitting your application for this position, you are recognising and accepting this disclaimer.