DEPUTY DIRECTOR: CURRICULUM MANAGEMENT

This senior managerial position, based at the Department of Correctional Services’ National Head Office within the Directorate for Formal Education and Skills Development, is responsible for providing strategic leadership in curriculum management for offender education and training. The Deputy Director operates in a correctional environment, ensuring that education, occupational and vocational programmes not only meet legislative requirements but also support the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders. The role demands a comprehensive understanding of the curriculum sets by the Department of Basic Education and the Department of Higher Education and Training, as well as a strong working knowledge of the National Qualifications Framework. It sits at the heart of policy implementation, curriculum design, quality assurance, and operational management, requiring an ability to navigate both educational standards and the specific prescripts of the correctional services setting.

Candidates must hold a recognised degree or diploma in Education, an Advanced Technical and Vocational Teaching qualification, or an Advanced Diploma in Adult and Community Education and Training and Teaching, or another relevant qualification. A minimum of three to five years of management experience within an education and training environment, at an assistant director level, is required. Computer literacy and a valid driver’s licence are essential. The successful applicant will bring a thorough understanding of the DBE and DHET curriculum frameworks, the National Qualifications Framework, and the management of education and training systems. Expertise in risk assessment, skills development, capacity building, strategic planning, and performance management is crucial, as is familiarity with the Department of Correctional Services environment, the broader justice cluster, and applicable legal prescripts. Knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act, particularly regarding expenditure compilation and reporting, is also required.

The role demands strong applied thinking and strategic skills, including communication, project management, presentation delivery, report writing, and the maintenance of service delivery standards. The incumbent will be expected to develop others through coaching, mentoring and training, and to manage both projects and programmes effectively. Decision making, problem solving, networking with stakeholders, negotiation, organising, conflict management, and analytical thinking are integral to the position. Policy development, analysis, monitoring, and evaluation are equally important, as the Deputy Director will be responsible for shaping and refining the frameworks that guide curriculum delivery in correctional facilities.

In terms of duties, the post involves managing the development, review, and implementation of policies, procedures, strategies, and operational frameworks for education, occupational, and vocational training programmes. The Deputy Director will manage the development, review, alignment, and implementation of curricula, ensuring compliance with legislative prescripts, education standards, and offender rehabilitation requirements. Systems for monitoring, evaluating, and improving the quality, effectiveness, and impact of curriculum delivery must be established and maintained. The role also encompasses managing assessment, moderation, certification, and qualification processes so that learners obtain recognised qualifications. In addition, the post carries responsibility for managing performance information, human resources, finance, and assets within the unit. This is a Public Service Act appointment, and the successful candidate will join a dedicated team working to transform education within the correctional system.