Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching

The primary purpose of the Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching is to ensure that qualifying graduates are able to facilitate Foundation Phase teaching and learning ethically, professionally, and innovatively in both rural and urban landscapes. Furthermore, on completion of the qualification, graduates will be able to implement and continuously adapt to national legislation/policies and guidelines governing and addressing Foundation Phase teaching and learning in a coherent and purposeful manner.

Purpose Statement

The purpose of this qualification is also to ensure that graduates will be able to demonstrate an appropriate collaborative attitude and value the involvement of multiple stakeholders that contribute to Foundation Phase teaching and learning success. Qualifying graduates will also be able to administer and manage Foundation Phase teaching and learning effectively through best classroom practice in stimulating learning amongst Foundation Phase learners. The BEd is an initial qualification for educators in schools. Teachers are members of a profession whose definitive aim is to enable systematic learning.

Programme Objectives

In order to prepare prospective teachers for this comprehensive role, the BEd programme seeks to:

• Develop and consolidate in an integrated way appropriate disciplinary, practical, pedagogical, and situational knowledge.
• Cultivate a practical understanding of teaching and learning in a diverse range of South African schools, in relation to educational theory, phase, and/or subject specialisation, practice, and policy.
• Foster self-reflexivity and self-understanding among prospective teachers.
• Nurture commitment to the ideals of the teaching profession and an understanding of teaching as a profession.
• Develop the professional dispositions and self-identity of students as teachers.
• Develop students as active citizens and enable them to develop the dispositions of citizenship in their learners.
• Promote and develop the dispositions and competences to organize learning among a diverse range of learners in diverse contexts.

Qualification Details

• Qualification code: 90102
• NQF level: 7
• Total credits: 480
• SAQA ID: Not specified
• APS/AS: 23
• Maximum time to complete this qualification: 10 years

Admission Requirements

Your admission to Unisa is dependent on you meeting the specific admission requirements for your chosen qualification. A National Senior Certificate (NSC) (Degree endorsement) with at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning and 40% in Mathematics or 50% in Mathematical Literacy, or a Senior Certificate (SC) with matriculation exemption with at least a D symbol on HG or a C symbol on SG in the language of teaching and learning and an F symbol on HG or an E symbol on SG in Mathematics.

Alternative Admission Pathways

Applicants who would like to apply for admission through recognition of prior learning (RPL) must be at least 23 years old; have completed at least Grade 10; and have at least five years of relevant teaching experience in the study field in which they would like to apply for admission to a qualification.

Student Fees and Funding Your Studies

• Application fee: R150 for online applications
• Student fees: Available on the Unisa website

Application for Admission

Apply for admission to undergraduate qualifications for the 2026 academic year between 3 November and 19 December 2025. All applications for admission must be submitted online. Admission to a qualification is not automatic. It will depend on whether you comply with the admission requirements and if space is available.

Registration

Unisa will send the necessary information about registration dates and the registration process to all successful applicants who have confirmed their acceptance of Unisa's offer.

Curriculum/Modules

This qualification contains modules with work-integrated learning components, which will require you to spend time away from your home and responsibilities, to gain the required industry exposure through applying your theoretical understanding in a workplace. You will be expected to complete tasks which will reflect your experience and skills gained while in the workplace. These tasks will be formally assessed and grades awarded.