Private Colleges Offering Teaching Courses in South Africa

If you’re thinking about becoming a teacher in South Africa, private colleges could be a smart option. They offer flexible programs, often with online or hybrid learning, and can be easier to access than public universities. 

Plus, a lot of them have payment plans, so you don’t need to have all the cash upfront. Let’s break down some of the top private options and what they offer.

Bachelor of Education (BEd) vs Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)

Before diving into colleges, it helps to know the difference between the two main teaching paths:

• BEd: A 4-year degree for students starting fresh after matric. It covers both teaching theory and practical skills from the start.
  
  

• PGCE: A 1–2 year program for people who already have a degree in another field. It teaches the pedagogy and classroom skills you need to become a teacher. This is perfect if you’re switching careers.
  
  

Both qualifications are nationally recognized and let you register with the South African Council for Educators (SACE).

Top Private Colleges Offering Teaching Courses

1. The IIE at Rosebank College

Rosebank College is pretty well-known and has been around for ages. They have lots of students and programs, and their teaching courses are solid. It’s a good choice if you want options for both full-time and online learning.

• Programs: BEd (Intermediate Phase, Grades 4–7), PGCE (Senior Phase and FET), Higher Certificate in Early Childhood Care and Education

• Study Mode: BEd is full-time contact; PGCE is online/distance

• Duration: BEd – 4 years, PGCE – 1 year

• Costs & Payment:
  
  

• Region A (Braamfontein, Cape Town, Durban, Pretoria): R39,585–R40,960 per year, with monthly installments available
  
  

• Region B (Bloemfontein, Mbombela, Polokwane, Nelson Mandela Bay): R44,490–R50,990 per year

Apply here: Rosebank College BEd Courses

2. STADIO

STADIO is great if you don’t want to be stuck on campus all the time. Their PGCE courses are mainly online, so you can study from home or wherever you are. It’s flexible and good for working people.

• Programs: PGCE for Senior Phase and FET

• Study Mode: Fully online / distance learning

• Duration: 1–2 years (choose based on your schedule)

• Costs: Competitively priced (check website PDFs for exact fees)

Apply here: STADIO Teaching Qualifications

3. MANCOSA

MANCOSA mixes online learning with some in-person teaching practice. It’s a nice balance if you like flexibility but also want real classroom experience. They have a few payment options too, which is handy.

• Programs: BEd (Senior Phase and FET), PGCE (FET)

• Study Mode: Hybrid (online learning + in-person teaching practice)

• Duration: BEd – 4 years, PGCE – 18 months

• Costs:
  
  

• PGCE: R37,100–R46,500 per year with multiple installment options

• BEd Honours: R38,850–R48,650 per year
  
  

Apply here: MANCOSA School of Education

4. Instill Education

Instill is a smaller, more specialized college, focusing on early-years teaching. They’re good if you want a program just for Grades R–3 and need flexibility to study part-time or pay later.

• Programs: PGCE Foundation Phase (Grades R–3)

• Study Mode: Full-time contact or 2-year part-time distance learning

• Duration: 1–2 years

• Costs: Flexible funding, including “Study Now, Pay Later” options

Apply here: Instill Education Teaching Courses

Private colleges in South Africa are a great way to start your teaching career, especially if you want flexibility or need an alternative to public universities. With BEd and PGCE programs available, you can choose a path that fits your current education level and schedule. Don’t forget to compare fees, study modes, and financial options before applying.