Second Additional Language Educator – Senior Phase and FET Phase Job

SPARK Schools, a leading network of affordable private schools known for its innovative blended learning model, is inviting applications for a Second Additional Language Educator across their Senior Phase and FET Phase. This is a fantastic opportunity for passionate educators specialising in sign language to contribute to a transformative educational environment, guiding scholars towards academic excellence and future success. If you are seeking impactful teaching jobs that drive student achievement and foster a culture of growth, this role could be for you, with applications closing on 30 November 2025. This vacancy is also listed on ISASA’s website.

SPARK Schools is a social impact disruptor, pioneering Africa’s first blended learning model to provide personalised education affordably. With 21 primary schools and 5 high schools serving over 15,500 families in 2024, they are dedicated to making university and careers accessible for all scholars. This role reports to an assistant principal or principal and is crucial to maintaining their high standards of learning and scholar development.

Detailed list of vacancy key details

• Organisation name: SPARK Schools
• Job title: Second Additional Language Educator – Senior Phase and FET Phase
• Role purpose: To drive student achievement through maintaining high expectations for classroom culture, behaviour, and academic growth. Educators will be content specialists in reading, writing, and speaking Second Additional Language (SAL), specifically sign language, equipping scholars for matriculation and collaborating on an integrated inquiry-based curriculum.
• Reporting to: Assistant Principal or Principal
• Key responsibilities include:
  • Planning, teaching, and co-teaching face-to-face and distance lessons.
  • Collaborating with colleagues to develop rigorous learning experiences and individualised behaviour and learning plans.
  • Actively participating in professional development sessions.
  • Developing and administering assessments, analysing data for student growth.
  • Leading scholar social and emotional development through Character Quotient (CQ) sessions.
  • Planning and monitoring support programmes for all scholar performance levels.
  • Participating in place-based, career, and tertiary pathways education.
  • Developing SPARK culture and implementing behaviour management strategies.
  • Communicating professionally with all stakeholders.
  • Nurturing a high-achieving, supportive work environment.
  • Promoting the vision and mission of SPARK Schools.
  • Adhering to child protection, anti-bullying, and health and safety policies.
  • Attending Saturday events and parent community meetings.
• Required qualifications and criteria:
  • Fluency in English language.
  • Fluency in sign language and signing ability.
  • A completed B.Ed or PGCE degree with specialisation in Second Additional Language Senior and FET – Sign language.
  • Current registration with the South African Council for Educators (SACE).
  • A clear criminal record.
• Closing date for applications: 30 November 2025
• SPARK Schools values: Service, Persistence, Achievement, Responsibility, Kindness

Simple summary of the vacancy

SPARK Schools is searching for a dedicated Second Additional Language Educator for their Senior Phase and FET Phase, with a specific focus on sign language. This role is crucial for their high schools, where educators are expected to be specialists in teaching Second Additional Language, fostering strong literacy skills in reading, writing, and speaking for all scholars. The ideal candidate will be instrumental in preparing students for matriculation and beyond, by delivering an integrated, inquiry-based curriculum.

As an educator at SPARK Schools, you’ll be part of a dynamic team committed to providing rigorous and engaging learning experiences. Your responsibilities will extend beyond classroom teaching to include collaborative curriculum development, active participation in professional growth, and the crucial task of tracking student progress through assessments and data analysis. A significant aspect of this role involves nurturing the social and emotional development of scholars through Character Quotient (CQ) sessions, ensuring a holistic approach to education.

The successful applicant will be expected to support both struggling and high-achieving scholars, engage in place-based learning, and contribute to career and tertiary pathways education. Upholding SPARK Schools’ culture and values is paramount, as is maintaining professional communication with colleagues, parents, and the wider community. This is a chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of many young people, working within an organisation that champions innovation and accessibility in education.

How to apply for this post

• Visit the SPARK Schools application portal through the provided link: https://apply.workable.com/sparkschools/j/614049935C/.
• Note that the specific link provided is for a temporary High School Sign Language SAL Educator position at SPARK Blue Downs High for 2025, but it gives access to the SPARK Schools’ Workable platform for current vacancies.
• Carefully review the full job description and requirements on the application page.
• Prepare your comprehensive CV and any other required documents.
• Submit your application before the closing date of 30 November 2025.

Advice for potential candidates

• Q: What makes a candidate stand out for this teaching job? A: Demonstrating a strong alignment with SPARK Schools’ values (Service, Persistence, Achievement, Responsibility, Kindness) and a clear passion for innovative, blended learning environments will make you a preferred candidate.
• Q: How important is sign language fluency? A: It is absolutely essential. The vacancy specifically states fluency in sign language/signing as a core qualification, so ensure this is highlighted in your application.
• Q: What kind of teaching experience is preferred? A: Experience in the Senior Phase and FET Phase is vital, particularly with a focus on Second Additional Language instruction. Experience with inquiry-based learning or blended learning models would be highly advantageous.
• Q: Should I mention my SACE registration? A: Yes, SACE registration is a mandatory requirement. Make sure to clearly state your registration status and number in your application.
• Q: How can I show my commitment to student development beyond academics? A: Highlight any experience you have in leading character education, mentorship, or pastoral care, as SPARK Schools places a strong emphasis on scholar social and emotional development (CQ sessions).
• Q: What should I include in my cover letter? A: Use your cover letter to explicitly address how your qualifications and philosophy align with SPARK Schools’ mission and values, particularly their blended learning approach and commitment to accessible education.
• Q: Is a clear criminal record truly non-negotiable? A: Yes, a clear criminal record is a non-negotiable requirement for all educators working with children.
• Q: How can I prepare for an interview for such teaching jobs? A: Research SPARK Schools’ blended learning model, their mission, and values thoroughly. Be prepared to discuss your experience with data-driven instruction, collaborative planning, and behavior management strategies.
• Q: What are the expectations for professional development? A: SPARK Schools explicitly states active participation in all scheduled professional development sessions is required, so be ready to embrace continuous learning and growth.
• Q: How important is communication with parents and stakeholders? A: Professional and effective communication is listed as a key responsibility. Be prepared to discuss your strategies for engaging with parents and fostering a strong school-home partnership.
• Q: Will there be opportunities for career growth within SPARK Schools? A: As a high-growth entrepreneurial organisation with multiple schools, SPARK Schools likely offers various opportunities for career progression for dedicated and high-performing staff.

Institution details

• Name: SPARK Schools
• Website: https://www.sparkschools.org (Inferred)
• Address: Not explicitly provided in the vacancy, but SPARK Schools operates 21 primary schools and 5 high schools across various locations.