University of Pretoria (UP) Lecturer - Department of Early Childhood Education Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

The University of Pretoria (UP) is seeking to appoint three dedicated Lecturers within its Department of Early Childhood Education, situated in the esteemed Faculty of Education. As one of South Africa's top research institutions, UP is committed to fostering excellence and diversity within its academic community. This opportunity allows passionate educators to contribute to the development of future teachers and shape the landscape of Early Childhood Education.

Successful candidates will join a vibrant academic environment, playing a crucial role in both contact and distance learning programmes. They will be integral to the university's mission of providing quality education and advancing research in this vital field in Pretoria.

Minimum Requirements

• A Master of Education (M Ed) degree in Early Childhood Education / Foundation Phase, or an equivalent qualification.
• At least one year of teaching experience in Early Childhood Education and Foundation Phase.
• Demonstrable experience (within the last 5 years) in a community, Work-Integrated Learning, or service-learning project related to Education.
• Proven ability to conduct research.
• Experience in academic administration.
• Knowledge of the South African education system and policy framework for Early Childhood Development and Foundation Phase Education.
• Knowledge and experience in Early Childhood Development and Foundation Phase Education programmes and approaches, including Inclusive Education, Learners with Special Educational Needs (LSEN), and Learning Support.
• Appropriate language and communication skills.
• Ability to apply knowledge and skills effectively in teaching and student supervision.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Key Responsibilities

• Developing curricula and lecturing modules within the Department's programmes.
• Engaging in research activities, including personal research, producing research-based publications, and supervising postgraduate students.
• Creating, presenting, and coordinating undergraduate and postgraduate courses for pre-service and in-service teachers, as well as other students, across both contact and distance learning formats.
• Mentoring students for practice teaching and work-integrated learning experiences.
• Utilising a learning management system for course development and presentation.
• Delivering lectures and programmes within an E-learning environment.
• Making a significant contribution to research outputs, postgraduate teaching, and student supervision.

What the Work Involves

As a Lecturer in the Department of Early Childhood Education, you will be at the heart of academic life, primarily based in Pretoria. Your days will involve a blend of teaching activities, from designing and updating course material for various modules to delivering engaging lectures to both undergraduate and postgraduate students. This includes adapting content for both traditional contact classes and modern e-learning platforms, often utilising a learning management system to support course delivery.

Beyond the classroom, a significant part of your role will involve actively pursuing research, contributing to academic publications, and guiding postgraduate students through their own research journeys. You will also be responsible for mentoring students during their practical teaching placements or work-integrated learning experiences, ensuring they gain valuable hands-on skills. This role requires working collaboratively within the Faculty of Education, contributing to the academic administration of the department while fostering the next generation of educators.

How to Apply

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply online.

• Visit the University of Pretoria's official website: www.up.ac.za
• Follow the instructions or links provided on the website to locate and apply for the Lecturer positions in the Department of Early Childhood Education.