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Guide for South African Teachers Seeking to Live and Work in Australia: Focus on IELTS and AITSL


Australia is an attractive destination for teachers seeking new opportunities due to its quality education system, high standards of living, and career prospects. To work as a teacher in Australia, South African teachers need to meet certain language and professional standards.


Two key components of this process are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) certification.

This guide will help South African teachers navigate through the requirements, costs, and processes of these two very key steps.



1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System)

What is IELTS?


IELTS is a standardized English language proficiency test required by most countries, including Australia, for work and migration purposes. As a South African teacher seeking to work in Australia, you must demonstrate that you have a high level of English proficiency to meet both visa and AITSL accreditation requirements.

We do NOT accept PTE, PEAT, ISLPR, TOEFL, Cambridge or any other form of English language test.


IELTS Versions

  • IELTS Academic: Required for teachers and most other skilled professions.

  • IELTS General Training: Used for migration or non-academic training purposes (not suitable for South African teachers looking to teach in Australia).


For AITSL accreditation, you must take IELTS Academic.


IELTS Score Requirements for AITSL

AITSL requires a minimum band score as follows:

  • Listening: 8.0

  • Reading: 7.0

  • Writing: 7.0

  • Speaking: 8.0


The test result must be from one sitting, meaning all scores need to be achieved together. The AITLS does accept a One Skill retake should you not meet the requirements for one section, you are permitted to retake that one section to achieve the required score.

It is important to note that the overall band score achieved does not supersede the need to meet the required band score per section - for a successful result you need to score the required scores in each section.

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IELTS Test Costs

  • The cost of taking the IELTS in South Africa is approximately ZAR 5,200 (subject to variation based on location).


How to Book IELTS

You can book an IELTS test through the British Council or IDP Education in South Africa. The test is available in major cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban.


Preparation Resources

2. AITSL (Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership)

What is AITSL?


AITSL is the organization responsible for assessing the qualifications and teaching experience of overseas-trained teachers who wish to work in Australia. This assessment is crucial for applying for Australian work visa's.


Eligibility Requirements for AITSL Assessment

  1. Teaching Qualification: You must have a recognized teaching qualification comparable to an Australian Bachelor of Education or Postgraduate Diploma in Education. This should include:

    • A minimum of 4 years of full-time tertiary education (or equivalent) including teacher training.

    • At least 45 days of supervised teaching practice in a classroom setting.

  2. English Language Proficiency: You need to provide proof of your English proficiency by submitting valid IELTS results as per the requirements mentioned above.


Documents Required for AITSL Assessment

pile of paperwork
  • Certified copies of academic qualifications (degree, diploma).

  • Certified copies of academic transcripts listing the courses you completed.

  • Proof of practical teaching experience (statement from your education institution).

  • Passport identification pages.

  • IELTS results that meet the required score.

All documents must be scanned and uploaded electronically. Make sure all certifications are done by recognized authorities in South Africa. Examples of professions that can certify documents include Commissioner of Oaths, school principals, pharmacist, police officer etc.


AITSL Assessment Process

  • Step 1: Create an account and submit your application via the AITSL Online Portal.

  • Step 2: Upload the required documents.

  • Step 3: Pay the application fee and wait for the assessment outcome. The processing time typically ranges from 8 to 10 weeks.


AITSL Assessment Fees

  • The fee for a standard AITSL skills assessment is AUD 1065 (approximately ZAR 13,000).


AITSL Online Portal and Application Resources:


Important Considerations for AITSL

  • Teaching Experience: Although teaching experience is not a strict requirement for assessment, having it strengthens your visa application for skilled migration and bolsters your chances of being sponsored on a work permit.

  • Currency of Qualification: Your qualifications must be current. If more than 10 years old, you may need to provide additional proof of recent teaching practice.

  • Practical Teaching experience: a formal letter from your University confirming the grades and subjects taught as part of your teaching degree. The AITSL will base their categorising of a teacher on this practical teaching so it is important to make sure your current teaching experience aligns with this practical teaching experience.


Final Thoughts

Migrating to Australia as a teacher from South Africa is a multi-step process, but it is achievable with proper planning, research and the support of trusted partners. By meeting the requirements for IELTS and AITSL, you will be well on your way to securing a teaching position and gaining residency in Australia.

SA-Recruitment will offer guidance, support and advice to navigate this life changing journey.



 

 

 

 

 

 

 


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