Bachelor of Education in Intermediate Phase Teaching
NQF Level: 7
510 credits
Duration of study: four years (augmented programme: six years)
The qualification will enable graduates to enter the teaching profession as Intermediate Phase (Grade
4-7) teachers in South African public and private schools. Two Oceans graduates will be generalist
trained in the early years of study and introduced to the CAPS document for all the primary school
subjects. With progress, they will be in a position to teach a Home Language (English, Afrikaans or
isiXhosa), English First Additional Language, Mathematics and two other subjects chosen from
Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Technology, Life Skills and Social Sciences.
Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Senior Phase and Further
Education and Training Teaching
Course overview
The Postgraduate Certificate in Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching
(PGCE (Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching) enables graduates to enter the
teaching profession as Senior Phase (Grade 7-9) and Further Education and Training (Grade 10-12)
teachers in South African public and private schools. The PGCE (Senior Phase and Further Education
and Training Teaching) is a NQF exit level 7 qualification consisting of 130 compulsory credits. The
purpose and outcomes of the programme provide for bachelor degree and diploma holders a solid
knowledge of education and its foundations as well as the competence to teach at least one Senior
Phase and one Further Education and Training subject specialization with confidence.
Programme options
Full time
The curriculum design of the PGCE (Senior Phase and Further Education and Training Teaching)
provides for a full time study of one academic year spread over two semesters (clusters). Prospective
PGCE students may enrol for the programme in January or in July of each year. Students will register
in the first cluster for compulsory modules focusing on the foundations of education as well as ICT for
teaching in the senior and further education and training phases (information communication
technology; digital educational and instructional technologies). Along with this, students will also
register for their teaching specialisation subjects (a combination of Senior Phase and Further
Education and Training subjects), and one 5-week Teaching Practice module. Students who want to
enhance their basic ICT or communication skills should register for specific elective modules included
in the curriculum. Students register in the second cluster for the continuation of their teaching
specialisation subjects, as well as a second 5-week Teaching Practice module. They will also continue
with their compulsory foundations of education modules.
Part time
Prospective students may also enrol for the 24 months’ part time option spread over 4 clusters,
providing that students first complete educational and foundational subjects successfully before
registering for teaching subject specialisations and school based teaching practice.
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.