The University of South Africa (UNISA) is a renowned institution that offers a range of programs for aspiring teachers, including the Foundation Phase teaching specialization.
If you are passionate about teaching and shaping young minds, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the UNISA requirements for teaching Foundation Phase.
UNISA Requirements for Teaching Foundation Phase
To be eligible for the Foundation Phase teaching program at UNISA, you must meet the academic requirements for admission.
You must have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a bachelor’s pass, or an equivalent qualification.
If you are an international student, you must have a qualification equivalent to the NSC.
In addition to the NSC, you must also have achieved a minimum rating of 4 (50-59%) in English as your home language or first additional language. You must also have achieved a minimum rating of 3 (40-49%) in Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
These language and mathematics requirements are essential for success in the Foundation Phase teaching program.
Programme Structure and Duration
The Foundation Phase teaching program at UNISA is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to teach learners in the foundation phase (Grade R to 3).
The program consists of several modules, including Education Studies, Foundation Phase Methodology, School-Based Studies, Language and Literacy, Mathematics and Numeracy, Science and Technology, and Life Skills and Social Sciences.
The program is offered over a minimum period of four years, and a maximum period of six years.
You must complete all the required modules and pass the school-Based Studies (SBS) component, which involves practical teaching experience.
Language Proficiency Requirements
As a teacher, you will be required to communicate effectively with learners, parents, and colleagues. Therefore, proficiency in English is essential.
If English is not your home language, you may be required to complete an English language proficiency test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
Additional Admission Requirements
In addition to the academic requirements, you must also provide certain documents and information to support your application. These include:
A certified copy of your ID document or passport
A certified copy of your National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent qualification
A certified copy of your academic transcript, if applicable
A medical certificate, which must be signed by a registered medical practitioner
Disclosure of any criminal convictions or pending cases
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
UNISA recognizes prior learning, which means that you may be eligible for exemptions or credits for modules you have already completed. To apply for RPL, you must submit a portfolio of evidence, which must include:
A detailed CV
Certified copies of your qualifications and transcripts
A motivation letter explaining why you are applying for RPL
Teaching Practice Requirements
As part of the Foundation Phase teaching program, you will be required to complete a teaching practice component, which involves practical teaching experience in a school setting. You must:
Complete a minimum of 12 weeks of teaching practice
Teach a minimum of 40 lessons
Receive feedback and assessment from a school-based mentor and a UNISA lecturer
The teaching practice component is an essential part of the program, as it provides you with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting. You will be required to demonstrate your teaching skills and competencies, and to reflect on your practice as a teacher.