The Department of Basic Education has announced the opening of the Teacher Assistant Intake for 2026, creating an opportunity for unemployed youth to support schools while gaining valuable work experience in the education sector. This programme forms part of government efforts to strengthen basic education, reduce youth unemployment, and improve learning outcomes across public schools in South Africa. Thousands of applicants are expected to apply nationwide.

The Teacher Assistant Programme is designed to place young people in public schools where they assist teachers with daily classroom activities and school administration. Teacher Assistants help with lesson preparation, learner supervision, reading support, classroom organization, and general school duties. The programme aims to reduce teacher workload, allowing educators to focus more on teaching and learner development. Successful applicants will be placed on fixed term contracts and receive a monthly stipend for the duration of the programme.

Applications for the Teacher Assistant Intake 2026 are open across all nine provinces of South Africa. These include Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West, and Northern Cape. Placement is done at public schools within local communities where possible, ensuring that schools in both urban and rural areas benefit from additional support. Provincial education departments manage recruitment and placement based on local school needs.

To qualify for the Teacher Assistant Intake 2026, applicants must meet specific minimum requirements. Candidates must be South African citizens between the ages of 18 and 35 years and must have completed at least Grade 12. Preference may be given to applicants with post matric qualifications, education related studies, or previous experience working with children, although this is not mandatory. Applicants must be unemployed, have no criminal record involving children, and be willing to undergo background screening.

The application process is completed online through the official Department of Basic Education or provincial education department platforms. Applicants are required to complete an online application form and upload certified copies of supporting documents. It is important to ensure that all information is accurate and complete, as incomplete applications may be disqualified. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for verification and placement, and late applications will not be considered.

The Teacher Assistant Intake 2026 offers young South Africans an opportunity to gain practical experience, develop workplace skills, and contribute meaningfully to the education system. The programme provides exposure to teaching environments and can serve as a stepping stone for those interested in pursuing careers in education or child development. Interested applicants are encouraged to monitor official government communication channels for application dates and announcements. Becoming a Teacher Assistant is more than temporary employment, it is a chance to invest in the future of South Africa’s learners.