Substitute Foundation Phase Teacher

Nova Pioneer; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 50 000 - 200 000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative education network in South Africa is looking for a Foundation Phase teacher to empower young learners through enquiry-based education. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in Education and 2–3 years of pre-primary experience. Responsibilities include designing lessons, assessing student progress, and collaborating with parents. This role is part of a dynamic team focused on developing future leaders through creative teaching methods.

Qualifications

• Completed Bachelor’s degree in Education (B.Ed) or Bachelor’s Degree + PGCE.
• 2–3 years pre‑primary experience.
• SACE registered with registration number.

Responsibilities

• Design impactful lessons with learning designers.
• Deliver engaging enquiry‑based lessons.
• Assess student progress and communicate with parents.

Skills

Passion for enquiry‑based learning

Understanding of child development

Effective communication

Classroom leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Education (B.Ed)

Post‑Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

Job description

About Nova Pioneer

Nova Pioneer is a pan‑African, independent network of schools offering high‑quality, accessible education from pre‑primary through secondary school. We use a unique enquiry‑based learning approach that encourages students to ask "why" instead of being told the "what". This allows them to develop their own thinking through exploration, investigation and collaboration.

About the Role

Nova Pioneer is looking for a superstar Foundation Phase teacher to teach at our Midrand Primary School. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic teacher to empower students using an enquiry‑based learning approach and to be a part of an innovative network of schools that is developing generations of innovators and leaders who will shape the African Century.

Key Responsibilities

• Work closely with learning designers to design impactful lessons.
• Deliver engaging enquiry‑based lessons focused on learning through play.
• Observe, coach and model teaching for Apprentice and Assistant Teachers.
• Provide a flexible, nurturing, child‑centred environment responsive to the dynamic needs of young children.
• Assist with toilet training and routines of pre‑schoolers as well as developing key socialisation, separation and speech development skills.
• Infuse joy and passion for learning to keep students excited and invested in their development.
• Set and communicate rigorous and ambitious goals for all students within an age‑appropriate set of expectations.
• Conduct ongoing assessment of student progress and communicate with parents regularly.
• Attend weekly feedback meetings with Deans and learning designers to enhance teaching practices.
• Fully participate in opportunities for professional growth including daily team meetings, reflections, weekly PD meetings, instructional coaching and organisation‑wide learning and reflection.
• Communicate regularly with parents via e‑mail, telephone and parent‑teacher conferences.
• Contribute to and participate in co‑curricular programming for at least one activity per term.
• Participate in collaborative teams and committees, and fulfil supervision duties including some morning, evening and weekend events.

Skills and Qualifications Required

• Completed Bachelor’s degree in Education (B.Ed) or Bachelor’s Degree + Post‑Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) – Foundation Phase.
• 2–3 years pre‑primary experience.
• SACE registered (provide registration number and certificate in application).
• Understanding of child development and play‑based learning.
• Experience in Reggio Emilia is an added advantage.
• Ability to lead a classroom independently, with practical classroom experience.

Key Attributes to Succeed

• Deep love for teaching and commitment to each student’s success.
• Passion for enquiry‑based, student‑centred learning.
• Strong understanding of children and ability to connect with the specific age group.
• Committed to professional development and constructive feedback.
• Collaboration and effective communication within a team‑based environment.
• Proficiency in using technology for instruction.

Additional Requirements

• Valid police clearance (no older than 6 months).
• Copy of ID/Passport.
• Work permit (if applicable).
• SACE certificate.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should complete the online application form on the right‑hand side of the page. Please note: we cannot process applications that are emailed to us. We encourage you to attach your resume in PDF format to preserve formatting.

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until the right candidate is identified. Only qualified candidates will be invited for interviews.

Additional Information

Nova Pioneer is committed to diversity and equity in employment. We invest heavily in the growth of our people and provide clear career pathways to ensure continual personal and professional development. We offer a highly energetic, entrepreneurial environment where staff can bring their creative ideas to life.

We will never request an application fee from candidates. If you are contacted by someone claiming to be a Nova Pioneer recruiter asking for a fee, please do not pay and report it immediately.

By submitting your application, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Nova Pioneer will never request an application fee from candidates.