SENIOR EDUCATION SPECIALIST :SEN SCHOOL SOCIAL SUPPORT TEAM-LSPID GRANT

This permanent post, based at the Nkangala District Office in KwaMhlanga, is located within the Mpumalanga Department of Education’s Programme 4 and forms part of the Chief Directorate for the School Social Support Team under the LSPID Grant. The successful candidate will join the District-based Support Team as a Senior Education Specialist, working itinerantly across designated special schools and care centres to support learners with severe to profound intellectual disabilities. The role is fundamentally about strengthening inclusive education, ensuring these learners have meaningful access to quality, publicly funded education, and equipping the teachers, caregivers and families who support them with the necessary skills and guidance.

The core duties are wide-ranging and require a hands-on, collaborative approach. The incumbent will assess learners enrolled in schools and care centres, provide direct support to learners and their families, and track and report on learner progress. A significant portion of the work involves capacity building: training caregivers on the LSPID learning programme, supporting teachers in implementing it, and monitoring how well the programme is being delivered across designated sites. In addition, the role requires active advocacy for inclusive education and access for learners with disabilities, plus administrative functions linked to the support provided. The post also entails travelling to different sites, so a valid driver’s licence is essential, and there is a possibility of supporting other learners in the community when the need arises.

Applicants must hold a recognised three- or four-year teaching qualification at REQV13/14 level, including a professional teacher qualification, and be registered with the South African Council of Educators as a professional educator. At least five years’ experience in the educational field is required. A thorough understanding of education legislation and policies, and the ability to promote inclusive education, are critical. The department is looking for someone with proven teamwork and stakeholder collaboration skills, who can take initiative, work under pressure, and solve problems as they arise. Experience in co-ordinating education and support services for learners with disabilities will be a distinct advantage. Advanced computer skills are also required. Shortlisted candidates will need to undergo a practical test, be subject to security vetting, and complete two pre-entry assessments—one covering technical and generic suitability and the other assessing integrity and ethical conduct.

The Mpumalanga Department of Education is an equal opportunity employer and applies affirmative action in line with its Employment Equity Plan. Preference may be given to candidates whose appointment, transfer or promotion advances representivity in terms of disability, gender and race. The department also reserves the right to withdraw posts and to verify qualifications before appointment. Candidates who do not receive a response within 90 days of the closing date should assume their application was unsuccessful. This is a demanding but deeply rewarding role for an experienced education professional committed to making a real difference in the lives of learners with severe to profound intellectual disabilities and those who care for them.