The average overall attrition rate of teachers in public schools ranges between 3%-5% which is relatively low by international standards; and thus, suggests a high retention rate overall. The Department, through its internal analysis and collaborative research with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and partners, such as ReSEP-Stellenbosch University, has taken note of the high retirement wave in the next 10 or more years; and working closely with the latter! to address this concern.
The research into the retirement of South African teachers was also done by ReSEP-Stellenbosch University, which acknowledged that South Africa's universities appear prepared to deal with the retirement of teachers, and that university output is on a sound trajectory, and should be able to deal with a demand for a larger workforce.
In addition, and in anticipation of the injection of a high number of new entrants into the system, the Department will intensify the rollout of a comprehensive induction programme. In short, the programme provides holistic support to new teachers, covering not only personal development, but professional and social support. This induction programme will ensure a smooth assimilation of young teachers into the system.