Basic Education Director: Psycho-Social Support Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

The Department of Basic Education is seeking a dedicated individual for the role of Director: Psycho-Social Support. This is a senior management position within the Social Mobilisation and Support Services Branch, specifically under the Chief Directorate of Care and Support in School.

Based in Pretoria, this role offers a chance to lead and manage vital psycho-social support programmes aimed at enhancing the well-being of learners and educators across South Africa's schooling system. The successful candidate will play a key role in policy development, program implementation, and stakeholder engagement.

Minimum Requirements

• Possession of a qualification at NQF Level 7 in Psychology, Social Work, or Health Science, as recognised by SAQA.
• 5 years of experience at a Middle or Senior Managerial level.
• Experience in the design and management of Psycho-social Support programmes.
• Experience in monitoring and evaluation.
• An understanding of current education and/or school health policies and trends.
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written).
• Strong interpersonal and networking skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to liaise effectively with officials at all levels of government and key stakeholders.
• Strong conceptual and strategic leadership skills.
• Competency in Knowledge Management, Service Delivery Innovation, Problem Solving and Analysis, Client Orientation and Customer Focus, and Communication.
• Core competencies in Strategic Capability and Leadership, Programme and Project Management, Financial Management, and People Management and Empowerment.
• Ability to promote communication, innovation, and creativity.
• Valid driver's licence.
• Willingness to travel extensively.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and support psycho-social support officials within the Department.
• Develop and maintain policies and programmes to ensure the psycho-social well-being of learners and educators in schools.
• Manage the Directorate's budget.
• Manage and support psycho-social support officials at National, Provincial, and District levels.
• Liaise and cooperate with Provincial Education Departments, National Government Departments, Universities, Research Organisations, NGOs, and Civic Organisations.
• Monitor, manage, and evaluate policies, strategies, and programmes that promote and maintain the psycho-social well-being of school communities.
• Represent the Directorate both internally and externally as required.
• Liaise with project funders where applicable.
• Manage internal and external partnerships.