Teacher Assistant Phase 6 (PYEI) 2026

Full Guide to Education Assistant & General School Assistant Applications in South Africa

The Teacher Assistant Phase 6 programme forms part of South Africa’s Presidential Youth Employment Initiative (PYEI), implemented through the Department of Basic Education (DBE).

This initiative continues government efforts to provide unemployed youth with meaningful, school-based work experience while supporting public schools across the country.

If you are between 18 and 35 years old and currently unemployed, this guide explains everything you need to know — clearly and practically — before applying.

---

What Is Teacher Assistant Phase 6?

Teacher Assistant Phase 6 is a school-based employment opportunity designed to:

• Provide unemployed youth with temporary work experience

• Support teachers in overcrowded classrooms

• Improve learning environments in public schools

• Build workplace skills and confidence

This is not a permanent job. It is a structured 6-month opportunity designed to give you real experience inside a school environment.

---

Where to Apply for Teacher Assistant Phase 6

All applications must be submitted online through the official SAYouth.mobi platform.

Important to know:

• The website is zero-rated (you do not need mobile data).

• You must create a profile before applying.

• You can only apply for schools near where you live.

• Walk-in applications at schools are not accepted.

Always check your SAYouth dashboard for the latest Phase 6 deadline in your province.

---

Who Can Apply?

The programme targets:

• South African citizens

• Aged 18 to 35

• Currently unemployed

• Not studying full-time

• Not receiving another government stipend

Preference is often given to youth living near the school they apply to.

---

Types of Positions Available

There are two main categories under Phase 6:

---

1. Education Assistant (EA)

Education Assistants work directly in classrooms supporting teachers and learners.

Minimum Requirement:

• Matric (Grade 12)

Advantage:

• Post-Matric qualification (especially NQF Level 6 or 7 in Education or related fields)

Typical Duties:

• Assisting teachers with classroom preparation

• Supporting learners with reading and writing

• Helping manage classroom behaviour

• Supervising learners during breaks

• Basic administrative tasks

This role is ideal if you want to become a teacher in the future.

---

2. General School Assistant (GSA)

General School Assistants focus more on operational support.

Matric:

• Not always required

Typical Duties:

• School maintenance and cleaning

• Assisting with sports activities

• Supporting administrative staff

• Gardening and infrastructure upkeep

This role suits youth interested in facilities management, admin support, or sports development.

---

How Much Is the Stipend?

The monthly stipend is approximately:

R4,081.44 (after UIF deductions)

Important:

• This is not a salary.

• It is a fixed monthly stipend.

• Payment runs for the contract duration only (usually 6 months).

The stipend helps cover transport and basic expenses while gaining experience.

---

Required Documents (If Shortlisted)

If your application is successful, you will need:

• Updated CV

• Certified copy of your South African ID

• Certified Matric certificate (for EA positions)

• Police clearance certificate OR affidavit

Keep these documents ready to avoid delays.

---

Contract Duration

Most Phase 6 contracts run for:

6 months

There is no automatic renewal or permanent placement after the contract ends.

However, the experience gained can significantly improve your CV.

---

Why This Programme Matters

South African public schools often face:

• Overcrowded classrooms

• Administrative overload

• Limited resources

Teacher Assistants help reduce pressure on teachers while giving youth real exposure to structured work environments.

For many participants, this is their first formal work experience.

---

What You Will Gain

Even though it’s temporary, the benefits are real:

• Workplace discipline

• Time management skills

• Professional communication

• Experience working with children

• Reference letters from schools

• Stronger CV

Employers value experience — and this programme provides it.

---

Important Things to Understand

1. It Is Competitive

Thousands of youth apply in each province. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee placement.

2. No Fees Required

The programme is free to apply for.
No one should charge you to register or submit your application.

3. Schools Do Not Accept Direct Applications

Everything must go through SAYouth.mobi.

---

How to Improve Your Chances

• Apply early once Phase 6 opens

• Ensure your profile is complete

• Use a professional email address

• Make sure your CV is neat and simple

• Double-check all details before submitting

Small mistakes can lead to automatic disqualification.

---

Is Teacher Assistant Phase 6 Worth It?

If you are unemployed and looking for structured experience, yes.

It may not be permanent employment, but it offers:

• Income support

• Real workplace exposure

• Networking opportunities

• Personal growth

For many youth, it becomes a stepping stone into education, administration, or community development roles.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (High-Search Queries)

Is Teacher Assistant Phase 6 open for 2026?

Reports indicate Phase 6 applications opened during January and February 2026. Always confirm through SAYouth.mobi for your province.

Can I apply without Matric?

Yes — but only for General School Assistant roles.

Is the stipend taxed?

UIF deductions apply. The stated amount is typically after UIF deductions.

Can I apply if I studied teaching?

Yes — and you may receive preference for Education Assistant positions.

---

Final Thoughts

The Teacher Assistant Phase 6 programme under the Presidential Youth Employment Initiative is not just about temporary work.

It’s about:

• Gaining structured experience

• Building confidence

• Supporting local schools

• Taking your first step into the working world

If you qualify, apply carefully, follow instructions, and treat the opportunity seriously.

Sometimes your career doesn’t start with a permanent job —
it starts with a door opening for six months.

And what you do in those six months can shape your future.