VACANCY: LIFE SCIENCES EDUCATOR — IEB
Grades 10–Post Matric
Commencement date: January 2027
Somerset West Private School invites applications from suitably qualified and experienced educators for the position of Life Sciences Educator for Grades 10–Post Matric.
Somerset West Private School is a well-established independent school in Somerset West, offering education from Grade 8 to Post-Matric. Our small classes, individual learner support and structured academic environment enable us to maintain a strong focus on teaching quality, learner achievement and thorough preparation for the IEB National Senior Certificate examinations.
We are seeking an academically focused educator with excellent subject knowledge, strong teaching ability and a genuine commitment to helping learners achieve their full potential.
Reporting to: Principal and Academic Head
Minimum requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- An appropriate academic and professional teaching qualification consisting of either:
- an appropriate BSc degree with relevant undergraduate studies in the biological sciences, together with a PGCE in Senior Phase and FET Teaching, with Life Sciences as an FET teaching specialisation — this is the preferred qualification route; or
- a B.Ed. in Senior Phase and FET Teaching, with Life Sciences as an FET teaching specialisation
- Valid SACE registration.
- A minimum of two years’ relevant teaching experience.
- Proven experience teaching Life Sciences at FET level, including Grade 12.
- Current or recent teaching experience within an IEB school environment.
- A sound understanding of IEB assessment and examination requirements.
- Excellent subject knowledge and the ability to deliver the Life Sciences curriculum thoroughly and effectively.
- Strong classroom management, assessment, planning and organisational skills.
- Strong written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
- Competence in the use of Microsoft Word, Google Classroom and shared digital platforms.
- Willingness to provide additional academic support, learner intervention and examination preparation when required.
Key responsibilities
The successful candidate will be expected to:
- Plan and present high-quality, engaging Life Sciences lessons.
- Ensure thorough curriculum coverage and appropriate academic pacing.
- Set, mark and moderate assessments of a consistently high standard.
- Prepare learners effectively for internal assessments and the IEB National Senior Certificate examinations.
- Analyse learner performance and identify areas requiring additional support.
- Develop and implement suitable learner-intervention strategies.
- Provide additional lessons, academic support and examination preparation where required.
- Maintain accurate academic, assessment and learner-progress records.
- Use the school’s digital teaching and administrative platforms effectively.
- Contribute constructively to subject planning, moderation and wider academic initiatives.
- Communicate professionally and timeously with learners, parents, colleagues and school management.
- Uphold the policies, values and academic standards of Somerset West Private School.
The following will be advantageous
- IEB marking or moderation experience.
- A proven record of achieving strong Grade 12 Life Sciences results.
- Experience in developing academic-support or learner-intervention programmes.
- Experience in curriculum planning or subject leadership.
- The ability and appropriate qualification to teach an additional academic subject.
Applicants should clearly indicate all additional subjects that they are qualified and experienced to teach.
Personal attributes
The successful candidate should:
- Be academically focused and results-driven.
- Be professional, reliable and accountable.
- Be organised, self-motivated and disciplined.
- Demonstrate initiative and sound problem-solving ability.
- Have strong interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence.
- Work effectively as part of a collaborative academic team.
- Be adaptable and responsive to change.
- Be passionate about Life Sciences, teaching and learner achievement
- Be committed to maintaining and contributing to the school’s strong academic track record.
Application process
Applicants must submit the following:
- A letter of application.
- A comprehensive CV containing the names and contact details of at least two contactable employer references.
- A certified copy of the applicant’s identity document.
- Certified copies of all academic and professional teaching qualifications.
- A certified copy of the applicant’s National Senior Certificate.
- A valid SACE registration certificate.
- A SAPS Police Clearance Certificate.
Applications must be emailed to:
Please use the following email subject line:
Application: Life Sciences Educator – Applicant’s Full Name
Closing date: 9 October 2026
Commencement date: January 2027
Appointment will be subject to satisfactory reference checks with at least two current or previous employers, verification of qualifications and SACE registration, and the necessary clearance against the National Register for Sex Offenders.
Somerset West Private School will process applicants’ personal information solely for recruitment, selection, verification and reporting purposes, in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act. By submitting an application, applicants consent to their personal information being processed for these purposes. Reasonable measures will be taken to safeguard all personal information received.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Somerset West Private School reserves the right not to proceed with filling the position or to make an appointment.
ISASA