Migrant teachers' experiences of teaching in primary schools in Johannesburg.

Abstract

This study examined the reasons why migrant teachers were teaching in primary schools in Johannesburg and it also explored what were migrant teachers’ experiences of teaching in primary schools in Johannesburg. The data draws from a qualitative study using interviews and a focus group discussion. The findings indicate that the majority of the teachers migrating into Johannesburg are of Zimbabwean descent and seasoned teachers. The pull factors for this move included a desire for political, economic and educational advancements. Half of the sample migrated as tied ‘movers’, following their spouses to Johannesburg. Many migrant teachers have had mostly negative experiences. Inefficiencies by the Department of Home Affairs; temporary contracts causing instability; ill-disciplined learners; xenophobic attitudes and subject discrimination were key experiences of the migrant teachers in Johannesburg primary schools.