VerifiedNot as a qualified Grade R teacher in a public school. The policy on teacher qualifications sets the Diploma in Grade R Teaching (NQF 6) or a BEd in Foundation Phase Teaching as the qualifications for Grade R teachers. A short course or certificate on its own does not meet that standard.
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Certificates compared
| Qualification | What it is | Teach Grade R? |
|---|---|---|
| Unisa Programme in Grade R Teaching (76522) | A one-year short course with a three-week practical | No. Unisa says it is not a formal teacher qualification |
| Higher Certificate in Education (90093) | NQF 5, 120 credits | No, but it can lead into the BEd Foundation Phase |
| Diploma in Grade R Teaching (90173) | NQF 6, 360 credits | Yes; closed to new students at Unisa |
| BEd Foundation Phase Teaching (90102) | NQF 7, 480 credits | Yes; teaches Grades R to 3 |
If you work in Grade R without the qualification
- The Department of Basic Education reports that thousands of Grade R practitioners lack the minimum NQF 6 qualification.
- The Department and Unisa are upgrading practitioners: apply for the BEd Foundation Phase, or start with the Higher Certificate in Education if you do not qualify yet.
- A short course can still build your skills while you study towards a qualification.
See the qualifications Grade R teachers need and the Higher Certificate in Education.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Unisa Programme in Grade R Teaching a teaching qualification?
No. Unisa says it is not a formal teacher qualification.
What qualification lets me teach Grade R?
The Diploma in Grade R Teaching or a BEd in Foundation Phase Teaching.