20th April 2021

Moving to the UK from South Africa

With many travelling destinations even in the midst of a pandemic, the UK continues to be the preferred destination for many South Africans especially those who are seeking significant employment opportunities. Many teachers relocate from South Africa to the UK for various reasons such as wanting to create a good quality of life for themselves and their families. They also decide to relocate should they wish to develop their profession and to gain international experience.

Why are South African teachers flourishing in UK schools?

There is a great demand especially for South African teachers in the UK and as a result, they have moulded a strong reputation in the UK schools. They are sought after for a number of reasons, with South Africa being a third world country, most South African teachers have had to work in complex and mentally taxing environments. Accompanied by the under-supply of resources and lack of moral support which can easily discourage any person within their career. However, their buoyancy and devotion to their profession, and commitment to their students to always show up and go an extra mile is evident. 

So how does one make this life-changing professional move to the UK? What do you need to know about teaching in the UK as a South African teacher? Below we will go through the list of all the nitty gritty information that will be of help to you, as you embark on this new and exciting journey. 

Practical steps to take to teach in the UK

Types of Visas you will need to teach in the UK 

Not many people know this but the visa system is points-based and requires all applicants to complete an online application, attend a biometric appointment and provide supporting documents as well as pay the visa fee and immigration health surcharge (IHS) to access the National Health Service in the UK.

British Passport or Ancestry Visa

If a South African can prove they have a British born Grandparent, they will be permitted to apply for a five-year ancestry visa. This visa will also permit the applicant to apply to bring your partner and dependents under the age of 18 at the same cost per applicant. If the applicant has a British parent, then a British passport may be available to them.

EU Passport and the EEA Family Permit

Should you be in possession of an EU passport, you are able to arrive and work in the UK without delay. As an applicant you and your family can apply for ‘settled status’ should you wish to continue your stay in the UK after June 2021. With the EEA Family Permit, as a EU passport holder you can bring your partner / dependents to the UK to join you. 

What happens next?

Enhanced UK DBS (Police Clearance) and a South African Police Clearance

You will need to be issued a DBS certificate. In the UK, the Disclosure and Barring Service are responsible for issuing DBS certificates (UK Police Certificates). The agency of your choice that you sign up with will process the DBS on your behalf during the registration process. You will also need to provide a police clearance from any country you have spent more than three consecutive months in, in the last five years.  

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) for South African Teachers

As a Qualified Teacher from South Africa you will not qualify for automatic QTS via the UK Teaching Regulation Agency right away. However, in the interim you will be assisted to find a teaching role as an “Overseas Trained Teacher (OTT)” this will allow you to start working and earning an income. The QTS can always be done once you have settled in and are working as an OTT. There are various options available to enable you to obtain your QTS, you will receive the guidance from your teaching agency on which avenue to take. The QTS must be acquired within four years from the first day you start working in the UK as an OTT. 

Relocating can often be perceived as a daunting experience, however we hope this information will provide you with the necessary assistance you need, and that you will venture into your new season with ease and confidence. 

Goodluck 🙂