What APS Do You Need for Teaching Foundation Phase?
What APS Do You Need for Teaching Foundation Phase?
Are you interested in becoming a Foundation Phase teacher in South Africa and wondering what APS you need? You’re not alone. Understanding the Admission Point Score (APS) requirements is the first big step toward qualifying for the Bachelor of Education (BEd) in Foundation Phase Teaching. This degree is what you need to teach children from Grade R to Grade 3, and it’s recognized by all schools and the South African Council of Educators (SACE). So, what is an APS? Simply put, APS is a score made up of your final marks in key subjects from your Matric or National Senior Certificate (NSC). Universities use this score to decide if you meet the entry requirements for their teaching programs. For the Foundation Phase BEd, most South African universities look for a minimum APS of around 23 to 26 points.
However, this can change depending on the university, the demand for the program, or the specific teaching course you choose. To qualify, you’ll also need to have passed English, since it’s the main language of teaching and learning, and, at some universities, Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy as well. Some institutions may need even higher scores if the program is very popular, so always check the exact requirements of the university you’re applying to. Knowing the right APS is important because it helps you plan your subject choices and study goals in school. If you achieve the required APS and have the right subjects, you have a good chance of being accepted into the BEd Foundation Phase course.
From there, you’ll learn how to create fun, interesting, and productive lessons for young learners, using the right educational tools and approaches. Remember, meeting the APS score is just your starting point. Being a Foundation Phase teacher is about truly caring for young children and creating positive learning experiences that help them grow. With the right scores, the right mindset, and a passion for teaching, you’ll be on your way to making a real difference in South African classrooms.
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Colleges Required APS
Each college of technology has its basic entrance requirements. When you apply to a college, you must submit your grades since this is how your application for admission into particular programs will be assessed. An APS score will be derived from your grades.
- 0% – 29% = 1 point
- 30% – 39% = 2 points
- 40% – 49% = 3 points
- 50% – 59% = 4 points
- 60% – 69% = 5 points
- 70% – 79% = 6 points
- 80% – 100% = 7 points
The following APS minimum scores are required for these to satisfy undergraduate requirements:
- Higher Certificate – 15 points
- Diploma – 18 points
- Bachelor’s Degree – 22+ points (depending on the qualification)
Teaching Foundation Phase Admission Requirements
- The subjects used in calculating the APS are the prescribed seven subjects.
- The APS achievement rating of Life Orientation is divided by 2 in the calculation of the APS.
- Preliminary admission is based on the results obtained in the final Grade 11 examination. Final admission is based on the final Grade 12 results.
- A valid National Senior Certificate with admission for degree purposes
- If an applicant included more than the minimum of three electives in his/her NSC, the four compulsory and the three best of the electives are used.
- Minimum APS scores of 26 with Mathematics or 27 with Mathematical
Check This: What Qualifications Do I Need To Be A Foundation Phase Teacher?
Entry Requirements for Teaching Foundation Phase
Here are the Entry Requirements for the Teaching Foundation Phase with easy-to-understand bullet points and a brief explanation for each:
- APS 37+
To apply for Teaching Foundation Phase, you generally need an Admission Point Score (APS) of 37 or higher. This score shows you have a strong academic performance from your Matric results.
- English Home Language or First Additional Language Level 5
You need at least Level 5 in English (either as Home Language or First Additional Language). This ensures you have the communication skills necessary to teach young learners effectively.
- Mathematics Level 4 OR Maths Literacy Level 5 OR Technical Mathematics Level 5
A good pass in Mathematics (Level 4), or if you took Maths Literacy or Technical Mathematics, you must have at least Level 5. These math skills are important for teaching basic numeracy in the Foundation Phase.
- Wait-listing (APS between 31 and 36)
Applicants with an APS between 31 and 36 may be placed on a waitlist. Admission depends on available spaces, so meeting the minimum score doesn’t guarantee a spot.
- Additional Selection Criteria
Preference is given to students with higher English results. Because space is limited, meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Selection is based on academic results, available places, and other entry criteria.
University Application Process for Teaching Foundation Phase
These are the simple step-by-step application procedures for applying online
- The Student Enrolment Centre at a University manages all applications for this program.
- Applicants should check the admission requirements carefully and confirm if any additional selection criteria apply.
- Submit your application along with all required documents and the application fee before the deadline.
- After submission, an admissions consultant will be assigned to assist you.
- You can track your application progress online through the Self-Service Portal.
- International applicants or those with foreign qualifications should follow specific guidelines provided by the university.
Duration of Teaching Foundation Phase
The Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase Teaching programme is a four-year, 480 credit, exit level 7 qualification
Career Opportunities
- The graduate qualifies to become a teacher of learners from Grade R – Grade 3.
- They could progress further into becoming Early Childhood Development Lecturers.
- Graduates are specialists in African language instruction, namely Siswati, Sesotho, and Ndebele, and have the potential to engage in occupations that focus on these languages.
Young children’s learning can be substantially improved by using the appropriate apps for teaching the Foundation Phase. Key areas, including reading, numeracy, and creativity, are supported by these apps’ individualized, interactive, and engaging learning opportunities. I hope you find this post useful and easy to understand. Kindly share your opinions and questions you have about this post in the comment section. For further details and other inquiries, click here.
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