About the Role
The Department of Education is seeking passionate School Social Workers for special schools located in Tsolo, MT Fletcher, Cala, and East London. This role is vital in providing professional social work services to learners with special educational needs, their families, and the broader school community. By addressing social, emotional, and behavioural barriers to learning, you will play a key role in fostering the holistic development of children within inclusive or specialized environments. This position not only enhances individual lives but also strengthens the community fabric by promoting inclusivity and support for all.
As a School Social Worker, you will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams at various special schools, including Tsolo Special School, MT Fletcher Special School, and Khanyisa Cala Special School. Your efforts in crisis intervention and advocacy will make a significant difference in the lives of learners who experience barriers to education. Your work will empower families and create a supportive network within the school community, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.
About the Department
The Department of Education is dedicated to providing quality education and support services to all learners across South Africa. It aims to create an inclusive educational environment that addresses the diverse needs of children, especially those in special schools. By working with various stakeholders, the department ensures that every child has access to the resources and support necessary for their educational journey, making it a fulfilling place to work.
What You’ll Do
- Provide individual and group counselling to learners with diverse disabilities.
- Collaborate with the School-Based Support Team (SBST) including psychologists and therapists.
- Conduct home visits and assessments to understand learners’ social contexts.
- Manage cases of child abuse, neglect, and trauma in accordance with the Children’s Act.
- Assist with the screening, identification, and assessment (SIAS) process for learners needing additional support.
- Maintain comprehensive and confidential case files while drafting reports for relevant authorities.
- Advocate for learners and participate in community engagement and extra-curricular activities.
- Engage in continuous professional development and adhere to ethical practices in social work.
What You’ll Need
- A formal 4-year Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work.
- Current registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).
- Previous experience in a school environment or working with children with disabilities is advantageous.
- A valid driver’s license.
- Strong understanding of the Children’s Act and the South African Schools Act.
- Excellent interpersonal, report-writing, and crisis-management skills.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted via hand delivery or courier to the designated addresses below.
Requirements
A formal 4-year Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work.Current, valid registration with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP).
(Proof of payment for the current year is mandatory on or before the interview day).
Previous experience in a school environment or working with children with disabilities is highly advantageous.
A valid driver’s license.
Deep understanding of the Children’s Act and the South African Schools Act.
Strong interpersonal, report-writing, and crisis-management skills.
Job Duties
To provide professional social work services to learners with special educational needs, their families, and the school community.The successful candidate will address social, emotional, and behavioural barriers to learning to facilitate the holistic development of the child within an inclusive or specialized environment.
Psychosocial Support: Provide individual and group counselling to learners with diverse disabilities (physical, intellectual, or neurodivergent).
Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Work as part of the School- Based Support Team (SBST) alongside psychologists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists.
Home-School Liaison: Conduct home visits and assessments to understand the learner’s social context and provide parent-guidance programs.
Crisis Intervention: Manage cases of child abuse, neglect, and trauma in accordance with the Children’s Act.
Advocacy and Placement: Assist with the screening, identification, and assessment (SIAS) process and facilitate referrals to external welfare organizations or medical facilities.
Administration: Maintain comprehensive, confidential case files and draft statutory reports for the Department of Social Development or Children's Courts.
Participate in inter- and intra-sectoral networks and collaborations.
Collaborate and interact with stakeholders (e.
g.
, Department of Health, Department of Social Development, Non-Profit Organizations, Non- Governmental Organizations, local government, and the broader Community).
Advocate for learners who experience barriers to learning; liaising with Social Workers from other special schools and sharing best practices and experiences; liaison with relevant professional boards and tertiary institutions; participate in extra-mural and co-curricular activities.
Management and Administration: Manage effective administration practices of Social Work interventions; ensure compliance with the code of Ethics of the SACSSP; practice sound interpersonal relations, engage actively in performance appraisals per requirement.
