High school teaching is one of the most important and respected careers in South Africa. High school teachers prepare young people for tertiary education and the workforce, shaping the nation’s future. But how much does a high school teacher earn per month in South Africa?
This article provides a comprehensive and detailed breakdown of high school teacher salaries per month in South Africa, including benefits, allowances, tax deductions, and career prospects.
Whether you are a student considering teaching, a professional thinking of switching careers, or just curious, this guide will answer all your questions.
Why You Should Understand High School Teacher Salaries in South Africa
Knowing how much a high school teacher earns can help you:
-
Set realistic expectations if you’re planning to join the profession.
-
Make informed career decisions based on income potential.
-
Understand how public funds are allocated in the education sector.
-
Plan your personal budget if you are already teaching.
Overview of High School Teaching in South Africa
High school teachers (Grades 8–12) are employed in both public (government) and private schools. Their salaries depend on:
-
Whether they work in the public or private sector.
-
Their level of qualification (Diploma, Bachelor’s Degree, Honours, Master’s).
-
Years of experience.
-
Their job title (Post Level 1 teacher, Head of Department, Deputy Principal, Principal).
-
Location of the school (urban or rural).
Public school teachers are paid according to the government salary scale, while private school salaries vary by institution.
Factors That Affect High School Teacher Salaries in South Africa
1. Sector: Public vs Private
Public school teachers’ salaries are standardized, while private school teachers may earn more or less depending on the school.
2. Experience
More years in service usually mean a higher salary.
3. Qualifications
Teachers with advanced degrees often earn more.
4. Role and Responsibility
Senior teachers, heads of departments, and principals earn significantly more.
5. Location
Teachers in remote or rural schools may qualify for additional allowances.
High School Teacher Salary per Month in South Africa (2025)
Below is a detailed breakdown of gross (before tax) and net (after tax) salaries for high school teachers in South Africa, based on rank and experience.
Entry-Level High School Teacher (Post Level 1)
| Description | Monthly Gross Salary (R) | Estimated Net Salary After Tax (R) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | R22,000 – R25,000 | R17,500 – R19,500 |
Experienced High School Teacher (5–10 years)
| Description | Monthly Gross Salary (R) | Estimated Net Salary After Tax (R) |
|---|---|---|
| Experienced | R28,000 – R35,000 | R21,500 – R27,000 |
Head of Department (HOD)
| Description | Monthly Gross Salary (R) | Estimated Net Salary After Tax (R) |
|---|---|---|
| HOD | R38,000 – R48,000 | R28,500 – R36,000 |
Deputy Principal
| Description | Monthly Gross Salary (R) | Estimated Net Salary After Tax (R) |
|---|---|---|
| Deputy Principal | R45,000 – R55,000 | R33,000 – R41,000 |
Principal
| Description | Monthly Gross Salary (R) | Estimated Net Salary After Tax (R) |
|---|---|---|
| Principal | R55,000 – R75,000 | R40,000 – R55,000 |
Allowances and Benefits for High School Teachers
High school teachers in South Africa receive several allowances and benefits in addition to their basic salary.
Common Allowances:
-
Housing Subsidy: Contribution towards rent or home loan.
-
Rural Allowance: For working in hard-to-reach areas.
-
Medical Aid Subsidy: Helps cover healthcare costs.
-
Overtime/Extra Classes Pay: When teaching beyond regular hours.
-
Acting Allowance: Paid when temporarily filling a higher post.
-
Transport Allowance: For teachers in certain areas.
Benefits:
-
Pension through the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF).
-
Paid leave (sick, maternity, family responsibility).
-
Job security and opportunities for promotion.
How Tax and Deductions Affect High School Teacher Salaries
Typical Deductions:
-
Income Tax (PAYE): Ranges from 18% to 30% depending on earnings.
-
Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF): 1% of salary.
-
Pension Contribution: Around 7.5% of salary.
-
Optional: Medical aid, union dues.
On average, deductions reduce gross salaries by about 25%–30%, leaving the net pay.
Summary Table: High School Teacher Salaries and Allowances Per Month (2025)
| Rank | Net Salary After Tax (R) | Allowances & Benefits (Approx. R) | Total Take-Home (Approx. R) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | R17,500 – R19,500 | R1,500 – R3,000 | R19,000 – R22,500 |
| Experienced | R21,500 – R27,000 | R2,000 – R4,500 | R24,000 – R31,500 |
| Head of Department | R28,500 – R36,000 | R3,000 – R6,000 | R31,500 – R42,000 |
| Deputy Principal | R33,000 – R41,000 | R4,000 – R7,000 | R37,000 – R48,000 |
| Principal | R40,000 – R55,000 | R5,000 – R8,000 | R45,000 – R63,000 |
Career Progression for High School Teachers
High school teachers can advance through these levels:
-
Post Level 1: Entry-level teacher.
-
Post Level 2: Head of Department.
-
Post Level 3: Deputy Principal.
-
Post Level 4: Principal.
Further studies, leadership experience, and specialization in scarce subjects can accelerate promotions.
Public vs Private High School Teacher Salaries
| Sector | Average Monthly Salary (R) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Public School | R17,500 – R55,000 | Stable income, strong benefits. |
| Private School | R15,000 – R60,000+ | Highly variable; elite schools may pay more but benefits vary. |
Job Satisfaction and Work-Life Balance
Advantages:
-
Predictable work hours.
-
Paid holidays and leave.
-
Job security and respect.
Challenges:
-
Workload and large class sizes.
-
Administrative duties.
-
Limited flexibility compared to private sector jobs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About High School Teacher Salaries in South Africa
1. What is the starting salary for a high school teacher?
The starting net salary is about R17,500–R19,500 per month.
2. Do teachers get paid during school holidays?
Yes, full salary is paid even during holidays.
3. How much do high school principals earn?
Net salary ranges from R40,000 to R55,000 per month, excluding allowances.
4. Are private school teachers paid more than public school teachers?
Sometimes, but public school benefits often make up for lower base pay.
5. Are allowances taxable?
Some allowances are taxable, while others (like rural allowances) may not be.
6. What deductions are made from teachers’ salaries?
Income tax, pension, UIF, and optional medical aid or union fees.
7. Is there room for growth in teaching careers?
Yes, with clear pathways to senior posts and management roles.
8. Are rural teachers paid more?
Yes, they may receive rural or hardship allowances.
9. Can teachers earn extra income?
Yes, through overtime, coaching, tutoring, and acting roles.
10. Do qualifications affect salaries?
Yes, teachers with advanced degrees generally earn more.
Conclusion: Is High School Teaching a Good Career in South Africa?
High school teaching in South Africa is not only a noble profession but also a financially stable career. With competitive salaries, generous allowances, and opportunities for promotion, it remains an attractive option for many.
If you value:
-
Job security.
-
Decent pay.
-
Opportunities for growth.
-
Making a difference in society.
Then teaching may be the right career path for you.