Foundation Phase Academic Lead – SPARK Support – 2026
SPARK Schools is seeking a Foundation Phase Academic Lead to join our Randburg, Gauteng team. This role reports to the Learning Design and Pedagogical Manager and focuses on Grade R–3 outcomes, with a strong emphasis on literacy, numeracy, curriculum delivery, and compliance with DBE and CAPS requirements.
Quick Info
Location: Randburg, Gauteng (Head Office/Support Office)
Position Type: Permanent
Reporting Line: Learning Design and Pedagogical Manager
Closing Date: Not specified in the provided text
About SPARK Schools
SPARK Schools is a social impact disruptor leading change in education across Africa with a network of affordable private schools. The network delivers transformational education through Africa’s first blended learning model, combining classroom teaching with online instruction to make personalised education accessible at scale. Learn more about us on our About page and watch our Vision Video.
Our culture is collaborative, fast-paced, and technology-enabled. We believe in excellence, urgency, and a mission-driven approach to ensure every SPARK scholar exits Grade 3 ready for the Intermediate Phase. We are a growing, values-driven organisation committed to diversity and opportunity for all.
Purpose of Role
The Foundation Phase Academic Lead is the academic and compliance lead for the Foundation Phase (Grades R–3). The role guarantees high-quality foundational literacy and numeracy outcomes, rigorous curriculum delivery, and compliance with DBE and CAPS requirements, with a priority on school readiness and Grade 3 transitions.
Key Responsibilities
Academic Ownership (Grade R–3)
- Be the single point of accountability for Foundation Phase academic outcomes.
- Drive phonics progression, early reading benchmarks (R–2), numeracy fluency, and Grade 3 readiness.
- Identify at-risk scholars early and coordinate high-impact interventions.
- Ensure full curriculum coverage and depth aligned to the Launchpad Model and DBE standards.
Curriculum & Assessment Leadership
- Lead curriculum and assessment implementation across Grades R–3.
- Oversee continuous assessment design, scheduling, moderation, and QA; manage portfolios for compliance.
- Ensure alignment between teaching, assessment, and progression requirements.
School Readiness & Transition
- Design Grade 3 transition readiness strategies, benchmarking assessments, and progression documentation.
- Coordinate readiness screening for Grade R and support processes while ensuring DBE reporting compliance.
Instructional Leadership & Teacher Enablement
- Provide instructional leadership through pacing oversight, lesson plan reviews, and targeted coaching.
- Support material procurement for multisensory learning and ensure strong phonics and numeracy pedagogy.
- Lead academic meetings, data reviews, and performance planning.
Scholar Tracking & Intervention
- Monitor student trajectories, design catch-up programmes, and coordinate targeted interventions (phonics/numeracy).
- Partner with learner support to address barriers to learning, including LSEN referrals.
Data & Reporting
- Ensure accuracy of Foundation Phase data, especially Grade 3 reporting.
- Analyse trends, identify risk indicators, and provide timely reports to leadership teams.
Exit Readiness
- Prepare Grade 3 scholars for a strong transition to the Intermediate Phase and CAPS standards.
- Ensure pedagogical adjustments prevent recurring gaps into the Intermediate Phase.
Minimum Requirements
Education
BEd in Foundation Phase or equivalent (essential). SACE registration (essential).
Experience
Minimum 5 years’ teaching experience with significant Grade R–3 exposure. Proven track record of improving foundational literacy and numeracy outcomes. Strong experience in Foundation Phase assessment, moderation, and DBE compliance. Prior academic leadership or coordination experience within the Foundation Phase.
Competencies
- English language fluency.
- Strong data analysis, intervention planning, and high attention to detail.
- Clear communicator with stakeholder management skills.
- Capability to lead high-stakes academic delivery under pressure.
- Innovative, tech-enabled, and collaborative mindset aligned with SPARK values: Service, Persistence, Achievement, Responsibility and Kindness.
Remuneration & Benefits
- Market-related remuneration with performance-based annual bonuses and increases.
- Above-average annual leave; life, disability, and funeral cover.
- Employee wellness support and educational support; study leave and professional development opportunities.
- Staff discounts on school fees; clear opportunities for career progression.
Application Process
How to Apply: Please submit your application via the Official Careers Portal. The link will guide you through the standard application steps.
Employment Equity & Important Notes
SPARK Schools is an equal opportunities employer. Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups in line with Employment Equity goals. SPARK Schools encourages applicants with disabilities. The posting may be expired at the company’s discretion. If you have not heard from us within two weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
