FET Academic Lead (Grade 12 Focus) - SPARK Support Office - 2026 at SPARK Schools

Purpose of Role:

• The FET Academic Lead (Grade 12 Focus) is the academic and compliance lead for the FET phase, with direct and primary accountability for Grade 12 outcomes. The role exists to ensure excellent matric results, rigorous curriculum delivery, and full compliance with DBE and FET requirements. While the role spans Grades 10-12, the non-negotiable priority is Grade 12 academic achievement, examination readiness, and statutory compliance, ensuring every SPARK FET scholar exits the system with strong results and credible post-school pathways. Key Responsibilities Grade 12 Academic Ownership (Primary Accountability)

Responsibilities:
Serve as the single point of accountability for Grade 12 academic outcomes.

Drive:

• NSC pass rates
• Bachelor-pass and Diploma-pass quality
• Subject-level performance targets
• Lead early identification of at-risk scholars and coordinate high-impact academic interventions
• Ensure full curriculum coverage and depth aligned to NSC standards

FET Curriculum & Assessment Leadership
Lead curriculum and assessment implementation across Grades 10-12, ensuring:

• CAPS coverage and pacing
• Alignment between teaching, assessment, and examination requirements Oversee all FET assessment systems, including:
• SBA task design and scheduling
• PATs and practical components
• Standardisation, moderation, and internal quality assurance
• Ensure all academic processes meet DBE, Umalusi, and FET compliance requirements

Matric Readiness & Examination Management
Design and lead the Grade 12 examination readiness strategy, including:

• Controlled tests and trial examinations
• Revision programmes and exam technique support
• Final NSC examination preparation Work closely with the Curriculum & Assessment Manager to ensure:
• Accurate submissions
• Compliance documentation
• Examination integrity and risk management

Instructional Leadership & Teacher Enablement
Provide instructional leadership to FET subject teachers through:

• Curriculum pacing oversight
• Assessment quality reviews
• Targeted academic coaching based on scholar data Support teachers to strengthen:
• Subject mastery
• NSC-aligned pedagogy
• Differentiation and intervention strategies Lead FET academic meetings, Grade 12 data reviews, and performance planning sessions

Data, Reporting & Accountability

• Own the accuracy and integrity of FET academic data, with specific accountability for Grade 12 reporting

Analyse and report on:

• Subject and cohort performance trends
• Risk indicators and intervention impact

Provide clear, timely academic reporting to:

• Curriculum & Assessment Manager
• School leadership and network academic teams (where applicable)

FET Exit Readiness & Pathways

Ensure Grade 12 scholars are academically prepared for:

• University admission
• TVET and alternative pathways
• Support alignment between academic results and scholar aspirations in partnership with post-school support services

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Grade 12 NSC pass rate
• Bachelor-pass and Diploma-pass rates
• Subject-level performance improvement
• SBA, PAT, and moderation compliance (zero audit findings)
• Reduction in at-risk scholars from Term 1 to final results
• Quality and timeliness of FET academic reporting
   

Requirements
Qualifications and Criteria:

• The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and criteria:

Qualifications:

• BEd or PGCE (essential)
• SACE registration (essential)
• FET subject specialisation (Mathematics, Sciences, Languages, or Commerce preferred)

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years teaching experience, with significant Grade 12 exposure
• Proven track record of improving matric outcomes
• Strong experience in FET assessment, moderation, and DBE compliance
• Prior academic leadership or coordination experience within FET

Skills & Competencies

• Deep expertise in FET CAPS and NSC requirements
• Strong assessment literacy and compliance orientation
• Advanced data analysis and intervention planning skills
• High attention to detail and operational discipline
• Ability to lead high-stakes academic delivery under pressure
• Clear communicator with strong stakeholder management capability

Skills and behavioural qualities:

• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills;
• Outstanding customer service skills and dedication to providing exceptional customer care;
• Must be self-motivator and self-starter;
• Focus on quality and customer service;
• Exceptional listening and analytical skills;
• Solid time management skills;
• Must be able to effectively deal with people at all levels inside and outside of the Company;
• Ability to multitask and successfully operate in a fast paced, team environment;
• Must be proficient with computer skills;
• Being Bi-Lingual will be an added advantage
• Experience in administration, admissions, quality assurance, or a similar role
• Strong attention to detail and analytical skills
• Knowledge of data protection and safeguarding practices in education
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Experience in an educational environment, ideally in admissions/enrolment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to manage sensitive conversations tactfully
   

Values: Service, Persistence, Achievement, Responsibility, Kindness

Benefits

SPARK offers:

• fair market linked remuneration
• performance-based annual bonuses and increases
• above average/good annual leave
• life, disability and funeral cover
• employee wellness support
• educational support & study leave
• individualised professional development, support and mentorship
• employee discount on school fees
• opportunities for career growth