Inspire the next generation while gaining hands-on teaching experience in Cape Town — a city rich in culture, diversity, and opportunity. Through IE3 Global’s collaboration with VACorps, students are matched with personalised internship placements in education across private organisations, public schools, and non-profits. Each placement is tailored to your academic background, professional interests, and regional preference, ensuring you can both learn and make a meaningful contribution.
By working directly in classrooms and community education programmes, interns support teachers, mentor students, and engage in diverse learning environments. This experience provides practical international teaching exposure while helping to address critical educational needs in South Africa.
The following organisations are examples of where you may be placed. Placement decisions are based on the skills and interests of the intern, the needs of the host site, and position availability.
Observatory Junior School
Provides a broad and balanced curriculum that emphasises academic achievement, personal growth, and community involvement. The school fosters strong partnerships between staff, parents, and learners.
https://www.observatoryjunior.co.za/
SHAWCO
Africa's largest student-led non-profit, founded at the University of Cape Town. SHAWCO empowers underserved communities across the Cape Flats through health clinics, educational programmes, and legal workshops.
EcoActive
A Cape Town-based non-profit dedicated to "preventing drownings in water and in life." Through swimming, water safety, and life skills programmes, EcoActive builds youth confidence and leadership in communities like Lavender Hill and Vrygrond.
Participants in this internship will work in schools where additional support is greatly valued, mentoring South African youth and assisting teachers in the classroom. You will have the opportunity to apply your teaching skills to positively influence the lives of children and adolescents. An education internship in Cape Town will expose you to both the challenges and opportunities of teaching in a multicultural setting, helping you develop cultural sensitivity and awareness. Participants work under the guidance of South African teachers, gaining hands-on experience while making a meaningful impact in diverse learning environments.
Academic Background
Skills
Language Requirements
Estimated One-Time Expenses
* Check with your university's Global Opportunities Office for their specific fee.
Estimated Monthly Expenses
The Host Site Fee Includes
Interns are accommodated in fully furnished, student-oriented housing located in Observatory, one of Cape Town's most vibrant and culturally diverse neighbourhoods. Known locally as "Obz," this area is popular among students and young professionals for its lively atmosphere, cafés, and creative energy. Each intern has a private, fully furnished room and shares common living spaces, including a kitchen, lounge, bathroom, and laundry facilities.
Housing includes 24-hour security and regular housekeeping, with a housekeeper visiting at least twice a week, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment. Interns pay a $100 cleaning fee and a $250 refundable housing deposit directly to the housing company (refunded if no damage occurs).
Wi-Fi is available at $20 per month for up to two devices, though speed and reliability may not match US standards. Other utility costs are split among housemates. The central location offers easy access to the city centre, beaches, and surrounding natural attractions, making it both convenient and culturally engaging.
"I gained a great deal of meaningful professional experience, but the most important thing I took away was the relationships I formed while I was there. It is great to know that you can go halfway across the world to a country where you don't know anyone and end up making so many wonderful friendships."
—Ross Druckrey, IE3 intern from University of Oregon
"My personal growth, while harder to quantify, has been just as astonishing. The number one thing I have achieved personally is confidence — in both my work and myself."
—Alex Hoelscher, IE3 intern from University of Montana
Fall: April 15
Winter: September 15
Spring: November 15
Summer:
-Currently majoring in education or a related field.
-Display a passion for teaching
-Good interpersonal and intercultural communication skills
-Sense of professionalism and strong work ethic