SACE Requirements

The South African Council for Educators (SACE) plays a pivotal role in ensuring that educators are qualified, registered, and competent to teach in the country’s schools. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or a student preparing to enter the teaching profession, understanding the SACE registration requirements is crucial. This guide outlines the key requirements for full registration, provisional registration, and specific categories of educators, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your application process.

Full Registration Requirements

To obtain full registration with SACE, you need to meet the following requirements:

  1. Application Form: A fully completed original SACE application form.
  2. Academic Qualifications:
    • Certified copies of your complete academic record that states your qualification has been completed and the graduation date.
    • Educators with a Diploma in Grade R must also provide a certified copy of their matric certificate or an Early Childhood Development (ECD) Level 4 certificate.
  3. Identity Documents:
    • A certified copy of your National Senior Certificate (NSC) or matric certificate.
    • A certified copy of your identity document.
  4. Lost Certificates: If your qualification certificate is lost, you must provide a declaration from the issuing institution or the Department of Education, stating that your qualification was completed. This document must be on official letterhead, signed, stamped, and dated.
  5. Submission Guidelines: All documents must be submitted before SACE can issue your certificate. Note that internet, faxed, or emailed documents will not be accepted.

Provisional Registration for Student Educators

For student educators who are in the process of completing their qualifications, the provisional registration requirements include:

  1. Application Form: A completed original SACE application form.
  2. Academic Records:
    • Certified copy of NSC or matric certificate.
    • Certified copy of proof of registration for the current academic year, issued by the university, on official letterhead with a signature and stamp.
  3. Employment Letter: A letter of employment from a prospective or current school employer, which must be an original document on school letterhead, signed, and stamped.
  4. Additional Documents: If pursuing a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), include proof of registration and previous academic qualifications.

Registration for Non-Qualified Individuals

If you do not possess a Professional Teacher Qualification, you’ll need to submit:

  1. Application Form: A fully completed original SACE application form.
  2. Academic Documentation:
    • Certified copy of your NSC or matric certificate.
    • Certified copies of academic records and proof of PGCE registration.
  3. Identity Documents: A certified copy of your identity document.
  4. Recommendation Letter: A letter of recommendation from a prospective or current employer.
  5. School Registration Proof: A certificate of registration with the Department of Basic Education, including the EMIS number.

Foreign Educators’ Requirements

Foreign educators must comply with specific requirements, including:

  1. Application Form: An original, completed SACE application form.
  2. Academic Documents:
    • Certified copy of your matric certificate.
    • Original evaluation report of foreign qualifications from either the DHE or SAQA.
  3. Proof of Registration: Similar proof of registration as outlined above, along with a certified copy of your valid passport and work permit.
  4. Police Clearance: A police clearance certificate, not older than six months.

Special Categories of Educators

Different types of educators, such as ECD practitioners, AET educators, Montessori educators, Waldorf educators, Islamic educators, and Catholic educators, have specific requirements. Generally, they need:

  • A completed SACE application form.
  • Certified copies of relevant qualifications (diplomas or certificates).
  • Certified copies of identity documents.
  • Original letters of recommendation from current or prospective employers.

Fees and Payment

  • Registration Fees: R200 for South African educators and R400 for foreign educators.
  • Annual Levy: R180 (R15 per month).

No application will be processed without proof of payment, and all fees must accompany the registration application.