Requirements

Diploma In Grade R Teaching Requirements

The minimum requirement to teach Grade R in South Africa is the Diploma in Grade R Teaching, which is pegged at National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 6 and generally consists of 360 to 388 credits completed over three years full-time or four years part-time via blended or distance learning[4][1][5]. This qualification is recognized as REQV 13 and will become the standard for employment once legislative changes take effect[4].

Admission requirements for the Diploma in Grade R Teaching typically include:

  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) with diploma endorsement or an equivalent qualification
  • A completed Senior Certificate (pre-2008) is also accepted
  • National Certificate Vocational (NCV) with:
    • At least 50% in three fundamental subjects, including the language of learning and teaching
    • At least 60% in four vocational subjects from NC(V) Level 4
  • NQF Level 4 or 5 Certificate or Diploma in Early Childhood Development (ECD) can be used as an alternative entry requirement
  • Some institutions require prospective students to already be employed at a school in a Grade R classroom context[5][7]

The qualification includes theoretical courses, elective modules focused on Grade R pedagogy, and compulsory teaching practice/Workplace Integrated Learning (WIL)—often requiring students to spend a set period in actual Grade R classrooms under supervision[8].

The Diploma is also designed to provide “vertical articulation,” enabling graduates to progress to a Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Foundation Phase Teaching, with the possibility of credit transfer for up to 134 credits[5][7].

Current Grade R practitioners without this diploma are required to upgrade to meet the new minimum qualification standard; there is a grace period of eight years to achieve compliance after the relevant legislation comes into effect[4].

References

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