Shape your future with Foundation Phase teaching jobs at Clifton School, apply early by 30 September 2025 for a Term 1 2026 start

Clifton School in Durban is currently looking for an experienced and suitably qualified Foundation Phase Teacher to join their team. This exciting opportunity is for a dedicated educator to start in Term 1 of 2026, offering traditional education from Grade 00 to Grade 12. If you hold a relevant degree, a professional teaching qualification, are SACE registered, and are passionate about contributing to a vibrant school community, then this could be one of the ideal teaching jobs for you to consider.

Detailed list of the vacancy

• School Name: Clifton School
• Location: Morningside, Durban
• Position: Foundation Phase Teacher
• Start Date: Term 1 of 2026
• Required Qualifications:
  • Relevant degree
  • Professional teaching qualification
  • SACE registered
• Desired Experience:
  • Experience in the independent education sector (desirable, not essential)
  • Grade R experience (an advantage)
• Key Responsibilities and Qualities of the Successful Applicant:
  • Strong understanding of curriculum and ability to teach at Grade R-3 level.
  • Active contribution to the school’s vibrant co-curricular and sporting programmes.
  • Experience in and commitment to pastoral care.
  • Embrace a holistic approach to education and contribute fully towards school life.
  • Possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Potential for Growth: A position of responsibility, such as a grade leadership role, may be considered for the right candidate.
• Application Method: Email a detailed CV, a covering letter, and the contact details of three referees to [email protected]. Please identify the position in your email.
• Application Deadline: 30 September 2025. However, applications will be considered as they are received, and the position may be filled before the deadline, so early application is encouraged.
• Important Notes:
  • Applicants consent to Clifton School collecting, processing, and storing personal information in terms of the Protection of Personal Information Act of 2013 (POPIA).
  • The school is committed to safeguarding children, and this post is subject to enhanced child protection checks.
  • Clifton School reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Simple summary of the vacancy

Clifton School, a respected independent school for boys located in Morningside, Durban, is looking to appoint a Foundation Phase Teacher. The successful candidate will commence duty in Term 1 of 2026 and will be responsible for teaching at the Grade R-3 level. They are seeking someone with a relevant degree and a professional teaching qualification, who is also SACE registered. While experience in the independent education sector is a plus, it’s not strictly essential, though Grade R experience would be an advantage.

Beyond teaching, the school is keen on candidates who can actively contribute to their co-curricular and sporting programmes, demonstrate a commitment to pastoral care, and embrace a holistic approach to education, integrating fully into school life. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are also vital for this role. For an exceptional candidate, there’s even the possibility of a leadership position.

If you are interested in these teaching jobs, you should send a comprehensive CV, a cover letter, and the contact information for three referees to [email protected]. Make sure to specify that you’re applying for the Foundation Phase Teacher role. Although the official closing date for applications is 30 September 2025, the school will be reviewing applications and conducting interviews on a rolling basis, meaning the position could be filled before the deadline. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to apply as soon as possible if you meet the criteria and are keen to join Clifton School. The school upholds strict child protection standards and will conduct relevant checks.

Advice for potential candidates

Here are some questions you might have and advice on how to be a preferred candidate for this Foundation Phase Teacher vacancy:

• Q: What are the absolute must-haves for this role?
  • A: You must hold a relevant degree, a professional teaching qualification, and be SACE registered. A strong understanding of the Grade R-3 curriculum is also non-negotiable.
• Q: Is experience in an independent school crucial?
  • A: While experience in the independent education sector is desirable, it’s not essential. Don’t be deterred if your experience is from other schooling environments, as long as you meet the core qualification requirements.
• Q: How important is Grade R experience?
  • A: Grade R experience is noted as an advantage. If you have it, highlight it prominently in your CV and cover letter. If not, focus on your broader Foundation Phase experience and curriculum understanding.
• Q: How can I stand out in my application?
  • A: Emphasise your contributions to co-curricular and sporting programmes, your commitment to pastoral care, and how you embody a holistic approach to education. Provide concrete examples in your cover letter.
• Q: What should my cover letter include?
  • A: Your cover letter should clearly identify the position you’re applying for, briefly summarise your qualifications and experience, and crucially, explain why you are a good fit for Clifton School specifically, aligning with their values of traditional education and holistic development.
• Q: When should I apply?
  • A: As soon as possible! The school will consider applications as they are received and may fill the position before the 30 September 2025 deadline. Early submission demonstrates keen interest.
• Q: What kind of referees should I provide?
  • A: Provide contact details for three professional referees who can speak to your teaching abilities, work ethic, and suitability for working with children, ideally including previous school principals or heads of department.
• Q: How important are communication skills?
  • A: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are explicitly listed as a requirement. Ensure your application materials are well-written and error-free, reflecting these skills. Be prepared to demonstrate them during an interview.
• Q: What does “contribute fully towards school life” mean?
  • A: This implies a willingness to go beyond classroom duties, participating in school events, supporting various initiatives, and being an active member of the school community. Think about how you’ve done this in previous roles.
• Q: What about the potential for a leadership role?
  • A: If you have leadership experience or aspirations, mention them. This shows ambition and a long-term commitment, making you a more attractive candidate for future growth within the school.
• Q: How do I address the POPIA consent?
  • A: By submitting your application, you are freely and voluntarily consenting to Clifton School collecting and processing your personal information for the purpose of your application. No specific action is usually required on your part beyond submitting your application.
• Q: What can I expect regarding child protection checks?
  • A: Be prepared for thorough background checks, including criminal record checks, to ensure the safeguarding and welfare of children, which is a priority for the school.

Institution details

• School Name: Clifton School
• Address: Morningside, Durban
• Website: www.cliftonschool.co.za

You can find the original vacancy listing here for more information. For more excellent teaching jobs opportunities, explore other teaching jobs available.