Education

Education funding supports future teachers and others who work in schools. The best-known example is the national teaching bursary programme, which funds students in priority subject areas in return for teaching service after graduation. Provincial education departments, trusts and some companies also fund teacher training, often to fill gaps in particular subjects or regions.

Teaching bursaries are usually tied to a service period. In other words, you agree to teach, often in a public school, for a number of years after you qualify. That arrangement guarantees you a job, but it is worth reading the terms before you accept.

What funders usually ask for:

• Registration for an accredited teaching qualification, such as a BEd or a PGCE.
• A commitment to teach in priority subjects or phases, such as Mathematics, Science or Foundation Phase.
• Sometimes a willingness to teach in a particular province or type of school.
• Good marks and, for need-based awards, proof of household income.

Our education funding guide explains the options in more detail, and our government category lists public-sector awards.