Novice Teachers Leadership Development Scholarship Programme

Teach the Nation (TTN) is calling on novice educators who are passionate about creating lasting change within South Africa’s public education system. This exciting opportunity offers a fully funded scholarship designed to equip teachers with the leadership and teaching skills necessary to influence learners’ lives and elevate education in under-resourced schools.
What is the Teach the Nation Leadership Development Scholarship?
The TTN scholarship programme focuses on empowering novice educators to lead classrooms and schools effectively. Through intensive professional development, you will learn the core leadership skills necessary to drive change and positively influence school culture. The programme covers:
- Conscious Leadership (CL)
- High Impact Teaching Strategies (HITS)
These skills are essential for creating a significant impact in the classroom and the broader education space, helping you become a leader who actively addresses educational inequities.
Who Should Apply?
This programme is open to novice educators who are committed to making a difference in their communities and the education sector. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Current Employment: You must be employed as an educator in an under-resourced Primary or High school.
- Experience: 0-3 years of teaching experience.
- Location: You must be based in Gauteng, Western Cape, KZN, or Limpopo.
- Age Range: Between 22-35 years of age.
- Teaching Qualifications: You must be qualified to teach one or more of the following phases: Foundation, Intermediate, Senior, or Further Education and Training (FET).
- Subjects: You should be qualified in one or more of the following subjects:
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths)
- Languages (Home and First Additional Languages)
- IT, Coding, and Robotics
- Registration: You must be a registered South African citizen and hold SACE registration (or proof of application).
Key Attributes of Ideal Candidates
To thrive in this programme, you should possess the following attributes:
- Teamwork and collaboration skills
- Curiosity and creativity in teaching
- Motivation and self-awareness
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Leadership and social influence
Benefits of the Teach the Nation Scholarship
This leadership development scholarship offers a wealth of benefits that will shape your career as an educator:
- Fully Funded Programme: The scholarship covers all costs, providing you with the support needed to excel in your teaching journey.
- Professional Coaching: Enjoy two 30-minute individual coaching sessions per month, helping you refine your leadership and teaching techniques.
- Classroom Observations: Participate in regular classroom observations to enhance your teaching strategies.
- Leadership Certificate: On successful completion, you will earn a Leadership Certificate, demonstrating your expertise and growth.
- SACE Accreditation: This programme is SACE accredited, ensuring your professional development aligns with national standards.
- Ongoing Support: Continue your professional development even after the programme, with access to the TTN Alumni Network.
Programme Components
Throughout the two years, you will engage in several key activities designed to support your growth as an educator and leader:
- Community of Practice (COP): Participate in virtual sessions every school term, connecting with fellow educators.
- Classroom Observations: Receive feedback from classroom observations each term to improve your teaching methods.
- Impact Projects: Design and implement Community Impact Projects to benefit your school and community.
- Summer Institute: Attend a Summer Institute in 2026, further developing your skills during the school holidays.
- Continuous Monitoring: Share academic results and progress to track learner improvement.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to make a difference in South African education, apply today to join the Teach the Nation Leadership Development Scholarship. The programme is open to passionate educators who are committed to creating lasting change in their classrooms and communities.
- Visit www.teachthenation.org to learn more about the scholarship and apply for this transformative opportunity.
The Novice Teachers Leadership Development Scholarship is a transformative two-year programme aimed at developing leadership skills and improving teaching strategies. As a participant, you will play a pivotal role in your community by helping to shape the future of education in high-need schools.
Check also: Transnet Bursaries 2026