Teacher salaries exposed: What educators make in South Africa

Have you ever wondered how much teachers earn in Mzansi? We have the scoop for you.

The Department of Basic Education released an annual salary adjustment report detailing teachers' earnings in South Africa, highlighting variations depending on qualifications, experience, and seniority. 

According to the report, teachers' salaries start at R154,671 per year and can reach as high as R1.209-million annually. Business Tech reports that inclusive packages may extend these earnings up to a maximum of R1.6-million for educators.

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As teachers gain experience, their salaries increase, similar to many other professions.

Advancements in their careers, such as moving into roles like department heads, deputy principals, and principals, result in significantly higher earnings compared to teachers with similar qualifications but in regular teaching roles.

Here are teachers' salaries based on their Relative Equivalent Qualification Value (REQV) and notches:

Teachers' salaries are determined by their position on the salary scales listed in the Government Gazette.

Where a teacher falls on these scales depends on their qualifications and years of experience. For instance, a teacher starting with matric and four years of university education would begin at Notch 164 in the public service. At Notch 164, their starting annual salary would be approximately R333,624.

Teachers can advance to higher notches each year based on meeting minimum performance standards while employed in government service.

Business Tech reports that teachers’ pay packages also include a list of other benefits like:

• Employer pension contribution, equal to 13% of their basic salary.
• A thirteenth cheque.
• Teachers who submit to the Government Employees Medical Scheme (GEMS) receive a subsidy for medical aid.
• Teachers may also apply for a housing allowance of around R1,500 per month.

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So, there you have it, folks, these are the estimates of what teachers' salaries are. Note: these may be lower at different schools. The above figures only reflect the earnings of the more advanced teachers. 

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