Are you passionate about teaching, coaching, tutoring, or helping others learn? An internship in education and training could be your first step toward a rewarding career in schools, non-profits, corporate training, or academic research.
South Africa needs skilled, compassionate, and innovative educators—and internships are a powerful way to get your foot in the door. In this blog post, we’ll explore top education and training internships, where to find them, and how to stand out from other applicants.
👩‍🏫 What Are Education & Training Internships?
These internships give students and recent graduates practical teaching and learning experience in various environments, such as:
- Public and private schools
- Educational NGOs
- Early childhood development centres (ECD)
- Training academies or coaching centres
- Online learning platforms
- Corporate HR and Learning & Development departments
Interns assist with lesson planning, teaching support, student tutoring, curriculum development, and sometimes administrative duties.
🏫 Top Education & Training Internships in South Africa (2025)
1. Department of Basic Education (DBE) Education Assistant Programme
Location: Nationwide
Duration: 5–12 months
Who Can Apply: Matriculants or diploma/degree holders in education or related fields
This is part of the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI). Interns are placed in schools to assist teachers and gain valuable classroom experience.
đź”— www.education.gov.za
2. Teach South Africa Graduate Internship
Location: Rural and under-resourced schools
Duration: 1–2 years
Fields: English, Maths, Science, Life Orientation
Ideal For: Graduates passionate about making an impact in the classroom
Teach SA trains graduates to become change-makers in education by placing them as full-time teachers in schools.
3. SPARK Schools Internship Programme
Location: Gauteng & Western Cape
Fields: Foundation & Intermediate Phase Teaching
Why It’s Great: Interns receive mentorship, teacher training, and the opportunity to study while gaining work experience.
4. Thanda Education Internships
Location: KwaZulu-Natal (rural communities)
Fields: Early childhood education, community development, after-school programmes
Focus: Teaching, creative arts, curriculum development, and life skills
đź”— www.thanda.org
5. YES Programme: Education Placements
Location: Nationwide
YES (Youth Employment Service) partners with schools and organisations to offer paid internship placements to unemployed youth in educational roles.
đź”— www.yes4youth.co.za
✨ How to Stand Out for Education and Training Internships
Here are practical tips to help you get noticed and improve your chances of success:
âś… 1. Showcase Passion for Education
Your cover letter should reflect a strong desire to help others learn. Mention:
- Why you want to teach or train
- What subjects or skills you’re passionate about
- Any personal experiences (e.g. tutoring, mentoring, community service)
âś… 2. Get Some Volunteering or Tutoring Experience
Even informal experience matters! You can:
- Volunteer at a local school or community centre
- Tutor classmates or learners in your area
- Assist with homework clubs or church youth groups
This shows initiative and a genuine interest in teaching.
âś… 3. Build a Basic Teaching CV
Include:
- Education qualifications (or current studies)
- Subjects you’re confident teaching
- Communication and leadership skills
- Volunteer work and achievements
👉 Need help? Use our Free Internship CV Template
âś… 4. Take Free Online Courses
Boost your application with free certifications:
- Google for Education
- Coursera – Teaching & Learning Courses
- Alison.com – Classroom Management, Child Psychology, etc.
Mention these in your CV—it shows initiative!
âś… 5. Be Professional During Interviews
- Dress neatly—even if it’s online
- Speak clearly and show confidence
- Share real examples of times you helped someone learn or solved a problem
🔍 Where to Find These Internships?
- GoIntern.co.za
- Department of Basic Education
- Indeed – Search “Education Intern” or “Teaching Assistant”
- NGO Websites (e.g., Thanda, Action Volunteers Africa)
- University/TVET career offices
🎓 Final Thoughts
Education and training internships can help you build confidence, develop teaching skills, and change lives—starting with your own. Whether you want to become a teacher, trainer, coach, or curriculum designer, your journey starts with showing up, learning by doing, and making a difference.
👉 Start your application journey today on GoIntern.co.za!
We post the latest education and training internships from across South Africa.
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