ETDP SETA

16/10/2026

And it’s a wrap……After two days of learning, sharing ideas and engaging on the future of early childhood education, the ETDP SETA ECCE Conference and Early Learning Festival 2026 officially concluded at the Roots Lifestyle Centre in Potchefstroom, North West.

Hosted in collaboration with North-West University NWU Comber, the conference's second and final day brought an important question to the forefront: How do we turn what we know about early childhood development into real improvements for young children?

Conversations went beyond research and policy, touching on the everyday realities of ECD practitioners, the importance of their wellbeing, creating inclusive learning spaces and finding meaningful ways to improve teaching and learning.

Adding a practical and interactive element to the day, attendees also took part in a hands-on LEGO session, led by Jana Sauer. Through play and building activities, participants explored different ways of thinking about learning and assessment, reminding us of the importance of curiosity, creativity and asking the right questions in early childhood education.

The Department of Basic Education's presentation on the Bana Pele ECD Registration Drive also highlighted the importance of supporting ECD centres in accessing opportunities and resources that can help improve the quality of early childhood education.

As the conference drew to a close, the focus turned to putting the knowledge shared into practice, building on the partnerships established and finding practical ways to address the challenges facing the sector.

A sincere thank you to all our speakers, delegates and partners who contributed to the success of this year's conference.

The conference may have ended, but the work continues. Every effort to support an ECD practitioner is a step towards giving a young child a better start in life.

Siyakhula / Re a Gola – We Are Growing🌱

15/10/2026

The ETDP SETA, in collaboration with North-West University (NWU COMBER), successfully commenced the two-day Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Conference and Early Learning Festival 2026 yesterday, 14 October 2026, at the Roots Lifestyle Centre in Potchefstroom, North West ✨

Themed “Siyakhula / Re a Gola – We Are Growing,” the conference brings together ECCE practitioners, researchers, academics, policymakers and sector partners to advance professional development, foster collaboration and explore innovative approaches to improving the quality of early childhood education in South Africa.

Addressing delegates on the first day, Mr Thokozani Mlambo, ETDP SETA Manager: Research and Skills Planning, highlighted the strategic role of the ETDP SETA–NWU ECD Research Chair in advancing evidence-based skills planning and addressing critical skills gaps within the sector.

He emphasised the importance of translating research findings into practical interventions that support the professionalisation of ECD practitioners. He further outlined planned initiatives, including bursary funding for B.Ed ECCE students and micro-credentialled short learning courses, aimed at creating pathways towards recognised qualifications.

The successful first day featured insightful presentations, research discussions and knowledge-sharing sessions focusing on workforce development, professional standards, strategic partnerships and innovative approaches to early learning.

As the conference enters its second and final day today, 15 October 2026, the focus shifts towards translating shared knowledge and research into meaningful improvements for practitioners and the young children they serve.

Together, we are shaping the future of ECCE 🌿

13/10/2026

To every matriculant beginning their final exams today, may you find calm in the pressure, confidence in your preparation and strength in every challenge.

The ETDP SETA wishes you all the best 💙✨

05/10/2026

Every great journey begins with someone who believes in our potential. Today, we celebrate the educators who inspire, guide and open doors to brighter futures 💙

01/10/2026

[CLOSING MOMENTS] A proud finish to the 26th Annual National Teaching Awards 🏆📸

The 26th Annual National Teaching Awards have come to a successful close, marking a memorable celebration of the educators who continue to make a meaningful difference in South Africa’s classrooms and communities.

A special congratulations to Mpho Anatjie Mosala of Letlotlo-Naledi Primary School in the Free State, who was awarded the National Best Teacher. This well-deserved recognition celebrates her commitment to teaching and the difference educators continue to make in the lives of learners.

The ETDP SETA is proud to have partnered with the Department of Basic Education in celebrating and rewarding excellence at this year’s awards and to have contributed towards recognising some of the country’s exceptional educators.

Congratulations to all the winners, finalists and nominees. Your work continues to inspire learners, strengthen schools and shape the future of education in South Africa.

01/10/2026

[IN PICTURES] Scenes from the 26th Annual National Teaching Awards 📸

The awards are in full swing, bringing together education leaders and educators from across the country for a celebration of teaching and learning.

Gauteng MEC for Education Lebogang Maile welcomed guests, followed by an opening address from Deputy Minister of Basic Education Dr Reginah Mhaule. Minister of Basic Education Siviwe Gwarube introduced President Cyril Ramaphosa, who delivered the keynote address.

As the programme continues, educators are being recognised across a range of categories for the work they do in classrooms, schools and communities.

Through its partnership with the Department of Basic Education, the ETDP SETA continues to support initiatives that recognise excellence, strengthen the teaching profession and contribute to quality education.

01/10/2026

[HAPPENING NOW] ETDP SETA partners with the Department of Basic Education South Africa at the 26th Annual National Teaching Awards, a special occasion dedicated to recognising educators who make a lasting difference in classrooms and communities across South Africa.

This partnership reflects ETDP SETA’s commitment to supporting and strengthening education, skills development and excellence in teaching and learning.

Held under the theme “Uniting for Excellence: Elevating Achievement, Empowering Educators to Shape South Africa’s Future”, the awards recognise the dedication, innovation and leadership that continue to strengthen teaching and learning across the country.

📺 Watch the proceedings live:
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/19sVpme52F/

01/10/2026

Hello October 💗💜

This month brings an important reminder to care for our health in every sense, both physically and mentally.

The ETDP SETA joins the conversation around breast cancer and mental health awareness. It is a time to prioritise regular check-ups, pay attention to changes in our bodies and create space for honest conversations about how we are feeling.

A simple check-in, a listening ear or encouraging someone to seek support can make a meaningful difference.

Let us choose awareness, compassion and care for ourselves and for one another.

28/09/2026

🌱 Siyakhula/Re a Gola – We Are Growing

If you work in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), this is a conversation worth being part of.

The ETDP SETA ECCE Conference and Early Learning Festival 2026, hosted in collaboration with NWU COMBER, will bring together practitioners, researchers, academics, policymakers and sector partners for two days of sharing, learning and meaningful conversation about the future of ECCE.

Dates: 14 to 15 October 2026
Venue: Roots Lifestyle Centre, Potchefstroom

From strengthening the ECCE workforce to professional development, partnerships, advocacy and quality skills development, there will be plenty to learn from and plenty of opportunity to connect with others working across the sector.

Come learn, share and grow with us.

Register here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe1RBRib83Eq9htdynt5U4-fEdZE2etGuGm_8sj3XCZJQYqNg/viewform

28/09/2026