What are occupation-focused programmes and Occupational Certificates?

This section deals with programmes that include a formal work-integrated learning component. In particular, it describes programmes leading to Occupational Certificates. These qualifications have a strong occupational focus, with work-based learning as a central pillar.

Below is more information on Occupational Certificates, the Organising Framework for Occupations (OFO) and the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO).

Occupational Certificates, OFO and QCTO

Occupational Certificates are unique in that they consist of three types of modules that specify the knowledge, practical skills and work experience, which are the building blocks of occupational competence (i.e. the ability to perform competently in a work situation). Learners have to be assessed as competent in all three areas, followed by an external integrated summative assessment to be awarded an Occupational Certificate. This means that part of the qualification must be completed in a workplace where an employer is willing to provide learners with the opportunity to complete the compulsory work experience component.

Each Occupational Certificate is developed for a specific occupation or trade listed on the Organising Framework for Occupations (OFO), which is the system used for classifying occupations in South Africa. Occupational Certificates are registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) alongside all other types of qualifications offered by universities, universities of technology, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges and private training institutions.

The Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) is responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, assessment and certification of qualifications for occupations and trades.

Additional information is available on http://www.qcto.org.za/.