Life Orientation Educator

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension fund contributions

Medical aid contributions

Annual performance incentives

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a passionate Life Orientation Educator for a secondary school in Paarl, Western Cape. The role focuses on guiding students through personal, social, intellectual, and physical development, including career guidance and subject choices.

The ideal candidate will foster citizenship, emotional intelligence, and decision-making skills, with strong communication and empathy. A relevant teaching qualification and SA SACE registration are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Education or PGCE with focus on Social Sciences, Psychology, or Education.
• Minimum 3 years of secondary Life Orientation teaching experience.
• Thorough knowledge of Life Orientation curriculum and components.
• Strong facilitation and communication skills with youth.
• Registration with the South African Council for Educators (SACE) is required.

Responsibilities

• Deliver Life Orientation lessons aligned with the national curriculum for secondary learners.
• Facilitate discussions on career exploration, subject choices, and tertiary pathways.
• Develop students' personal, social, and emotional skills and self-awareness.
• Educate on health issues, mental well-being, and substance abuse prevention.
• Create a safe, open classroom environment and collaborate with counselors.

Skills

Strong communication

Empathy

Facilitation

Classroom management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Education (B.Ed.) or PGCE with focus on Social Sciences/ Psychology/ Education

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a passionate and dedicated Life Orientation Educator to join their thriving secondary school in Paarl, Western Cape. This vital role involves guiding students through crucial aspects of personal, social, intellectual, and physical development. The ideal candidate will be equipped to facilitate discussions and activities covering career guidance, subject choice, personal development, and societal issues. The successful educator will play a key role in fostering responsible citizenship, emotional intelligence, and decision‑making skills among learners. We are looking for an individual with strong communication abilities, empathy, and a commitment to nurturing the holistic well‑being of students. The school environment is supportive, encouraging innovative teaching approaches and collaborative efforts among staff to ensure students are well‑prepared for life beyond school.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver comprehensive Life Orientation lessons aligned with the national curriculum for secondary school learners.
• Facilitate discussions and activities related to career exploration, subject choices, and tertiary education pathways.
• Guide students in developing personal, social, and emotional skills, including communication, conflict resolution, and self‑awareness.
• Educate learners on health issues, including sexual health, substance abuse prevention, and mental well‑being.
• Promote an understanding of societal issues, citizenship, and human rights.
• Assess student participation, understanding, and development through various methods.
• Create a safe, open, and supportive classroom environment conducive to sensitive discussions.
• Collaborate with school counselors, career advisors, and other support staff.
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and engagement.
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and school events.

Requirements

• A relevant Bachelor's degree in Education (B.Ed.) or a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) with a focus on Social Sciences, Psychology, or Education.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience teaching Life Orientation or a related subject at the secondary school level.
• Thorough knowledge of the Life Orientation curriculum and its components.
• Strong facilitation and communication skills, with the ability to engage young people effectively.
• Empathy, patience, and a genuine interest in the holistic development of students.
• Understanding of adolescent psychology and developmental stages.
• Ability to create a safe space for discussion of sensitive topics.
• Proficiency in assessment strategies suitable for Life Orientation.
• Excellent organizational and record‑keeping skills.
• Valid teaching qualification and registration with the South African Council for Educators (SACE).

Benefits

• Competitive salary package based on qualifications and experience.
• Opportunities for professional growth and participation in relevant workshops and training.
• A positive and collaborative working environment within a dedicated team.
• Access to school resources and support services.
• Pension fund and medical aid contributions.
• Annual performance‑based incentives.
• Employee wellness programs.
• Potential for career advancement within the educational sector.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave in line with labor regulations.
• A chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young learners in Paarl.