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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY

REGISTERED QUALIFICATION:

Higher Certificate in Business Accounts Administration

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
117893	Higher Certificate in Business Accounts Administration
ORIGINATOR
Stadio (Pty) Ltd
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education			HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Higher Certificate	Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies		Finance, Economics and Accounting
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	120	Not Applicable	NQF Level 05	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered		EXCO 0821/24	2020-09-29	2027-06-30
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30		2031-06-30

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.

This qualification replaces:

Qual ID	Qualification Title	Pre-2009 NQF Level	NQF Level	Min Credits	Replacement Status
96724	Higher Certificate in Business Accounts Administration	Not Applicable	NQF Level 05	128	Complete

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

Purpose:
This qualification has been developed for the business sector - both small, medium and large enterprises. This qualification caters for the demands and challenges facing potential and actual managers in the modern office arena, by providing special business and communication competencies. This qualification is in line with the registration of qualifications specified in the NSB Regulations. The primary purpose of the qualification is to build a foundational entry into the field of Computer Sciences and Information Technology, with specific focus on Business Account Management operations. It is a qualification in its own right and equip learners with a sound theoretical and practical knowledge of development, implementation and management of an accounting data processing system in the business environment. A qualifying learner at this level will have adequate fundamental knowledge coupled with interpersonal and business skills preparing for later specialization in Computer Sciences and Informational Technology fields.

Rationale:
This programme addresses human resource development needs of the country. There is a growing need for Business Accounts Administrators in a rapidly changing business environment - there are more vacancies than the number of new job-seekers. There is also a need for wider access to business accounts administrator studies by students who do not meet entry qualifications into Technikon or University programmes. Strong emphasis on the development of information technology and computer skills will add value for students enrolled for this programme. Increased equity is achieved by giving students from historically disadvantaged communities wider access to such learning opportunities, and thus addressing ethnic imbalances in the student profile of the past.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

The learner entering this programme should have achieved a FET Certificate or equivalent. Knowledge of and experience in Computer Science is not a prerequisite. No other knowledge in a specific field is required.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
The programme recognizes and applies the principle of prior learning in various ways. It is structured according to programme modules, starting with the students' current level of knowledge, and adding new knowledge (both in depth and width), learning experiences, understanding and skills. Students are exposed to relevant learning experiences in both formal and non-formal training within the classroom, as well as the real work environment. A specified number of credits are awarded for each module towards fulfilling the requirements of this qualification.

Students can get access to this programme through recognition of relevant knowledge and skills acquired by:

Occupational-related experience in this particular field.

Gaining credits for a certain part/component of this qualification (in another programme within this Institution, or externally in the same/a similar qualification at an accredited education/training institution.

An entire qualification.
after being assessed against the stated learning outcomes applicable to this particular qualification to determine the student's competency.

The specific form of assessment to determine the level of recognition of prior learning will depend on evidence produced by each individual applicant. In case of the applicant not being able to produce a certificate of credits gained, the assessment will at least involve the presentation of a portfolio of practical work as demonstration of applied knowledge and skills.

Access to the Qualification:
Open access. The only applicable entry qualification is a Senior Certificate. Since the language of tuition is English, students should be able to communicate in English.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

Learning components:
Theory, practical application of theory, and experiential learning systems (subject and competence-related practical experience in the business environment). Due to the nature of this programme, all components are compulsory and is regarded as core learning.

In terms of credits the different programme components are made up as follows:

Component: credits.
Fundamental: 30.
Core: 90.
Elective: 0.
Total: 120.

The above indicated credits are divided between the different programme modules related to the guiding Unit Standards and specified learning outcomes applicable to this qualification (see Section D: Curriculum Framework).

Content details (curriculum):
Note. All modules are compulsory (core knowledge). There are thus no elective modules.

Windows (2 Credits).
Internet/E-Mail (4 Credits).
MS Word (9).
MS Excel (9).
Pastel Accounting (15).
Entrepreneurship (18).
Communication (16).
Business Accounts (47).

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

At completion of this qualification, the learner will be able to:
1. Understand, use and apply a variety of computer software skills in the world of work/enterprise.
2. Perform word processing skills from the basic to the most advanced level.
3. Develop a set of values and ethics related to professional conduct.
4. Communicate effectively within the world of work, using a variety of visual, and written communication skills.
5. Format data, create graphs, manipulate data using database functions, write macros, and solve problems using a spreadsheet.
6. Perform financial skills from the basic to the advanced level, including a variety of business accounting functions such as debtors, creditors and bank reconciliation.
7. Recognize, select, organize, and present facts as well as written information using a combination of communication skills.
8. Provide an essential administrative and supportive service within a business company.
9. Meet the challenges of entrepreneurship and business management through a successful business plan.
10. Understand how to buy and value a business on its own merits.
11. Create a typical business income statement.
12. Understand how to calculate the value of a business.
13. Understand and apply all functions to a cash register.
14. Understand and apply the concepts of budgeting.
15. Understand the strategies and techniques for efficient and cost-effective debt collection.

In this programme there is an explicit effort to integrate specific and critical cross-field learning outcomes. A learner will be competent in the following exit level outcomes:
1. Communicate effectively with fellow IT staff and users of information technology systems.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of problem-solving techniques, and how to apply them in a business account workplace environment.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of a variety of computer software and its application in the world of work/business enterprise.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of computer operating principles and procedures.
5. Organise himself/herself and responsibly and effectively.
6. Collect, analyse, organize, and critically evaluate information concerning computer operating.
7. Work effectively as a team member within a project development and workplace environment.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

The assessment process will be based on the following framework principles:
1. Using appropriate methods and tools to measure performance in both specific and critical outcomes in an integrated manner.
2. Using both formative and summative assessment to determine learning progress and the learner's ability to attain exit requirements at given pathway points.
3. Applying criterion-referenced assessment and using a combination of tools to gather evidence of learning performance.
4. Measuring both the quality of demonstrated practical skills, observed performance and the underpinning theory (facts, principles, concepts, etc).
5. Maintaining a balance between practical skills and performance on the one hand, and theoretical knowledge on the other, to ensure that each is measured in accordance with the exit level and outcomes of the qualification.

Associated Assessment Criteria:
In the assessment the following criteria will apply:

Demonstrate mastery of core knowledge, attitudes, and skills in accordance with the level and outcomes of this qualification.

Maintain a balance between theoretical assessment and practical application of knowledge within the world of work.

The weight applicable to theory in comparison to practical knowledge and skills will vary according to the type and level of qualification.

A repertoire of assessment methods will be used relevant to stated learning outcomes, both in specific and cross-field terms. These must include assessment of attitudes, as well as thinking and problem-solving skills.

Learners must comply with all requirements and standards related to computer operating practices in the world of work, including accuracy, presentation, and correct data input.

Integrated Assessment:
Comprehensive learning assessment is conducted throughout the programme (formative assessment), to ensure that theory and the practice are integrated (e.g. in the application of knowledge and skills) in achieving the stated exit level outcomes, and the purpose of the programme as a whole. This increases the relevancy of training offered by this Institution, and assessment at different learning levels (summative assessment). Generally, the following assessment methods will be used in combination when necessary:

Written examinations.

Coursework (portfolio) evaluations.

Evaluation of experiential learning assignments.

Evaluation of practical tasks.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The learner having this qualification will be able to apply relevant knowledge, attitudes, and skills as an business accounts administrator at any level, both within and outside South Africa. The programme is on par with similar training elsewhere at, for example The Career College (Business Accounting and Computer Certificate), and Toronto School of Business (Accounting and Business Application Certificate).

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

Articulation possibilities with related qualifications:
Possibilities exist for articulation to other qualifications horizontally, within and external to the Institution, as well as vertically to the next level qualification within and external to the Institution.

Horizontal Articulation:
Horizontal link with Computer Certificate and Executive Secretary Certificate. Students who have passed a certain module at another Institution, e.g. Pastel Accounting are given credit after individual assessment, thus enabling him/her to continue in a programme offered at this Institution.

Vertical Articulation:
Students may build on this qualification and progress to further (more advanced) related specialist training such as Desktop Publishing and Computer Art and Web Design within this Institution. If such programmes are offered at another Institution a student will be able to enroll in that programme.

MODERATION OPTIONS

Moderation includes both internal and external moderation of assessment, based on the competencies and exit points related to this qualification.

Moderation Options

This Institution will apply a system of external peer evaluation conducted every 3-5 years. Suitable experts will be used for moderation of all critical programme components, including outcomes, content, methodology, learning assessment, and use resources (study guides, technology, etc).

Different options exist concerning moderation of learning within this programme:

This Institution is registered as a training provider with Isett SETA, and thus follows the policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation of this ETQA.

Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner should be registered as an assessor or moderator with the relevant ETQA.

Assessment and moderation are guided by the demonstration of learner competence described in both the different Units Standards, as well as the different competencies applicable tot this qualification.

To ensure that national standards are maintained:

National quality assurance of assessment modes and methods (written papers, practical assignments, assessment tools such as marking schedules) etc should be conducted by the relevant ETQA.

This Institution has established a dedicated body, namely the Learning Assessment and Progress Committee (LAP) to ensure high standards and improve learning assessment and moderation practices.

A system of external moderation will be conducted on an ongoing basis. Suitable experts in the field of Business Accounting and Computer Operating Training will be used for moderation of all critical programme components, including outcomes, content, methodology, learning assessment, and use resources (study guides, technology, etc).

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

Criteria for registration of assessors:
Anyone assessing a student or acting as a moderator for this Qualification must be qualified in his/her specific programme field(s). The minimum requirements are:

Declared competence in all the stated outcomes for a particular programme sub-field in this qualification.

Detailed documentary proof of relevant educational qualification(s).

Relevant practical training and experience gained by the applicant (minimum of 2 two years occupational experience).

When appointing moderators preference will be given to persons with at least two years relevant experience in a training institution.

NOTES

This qualification is now offered by Stadio (Pty) Ltd, and no longer by Prestige Academy (Pty) Ltd - effective 29 September 2020

LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION:

When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification.

NONE

PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION:

This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.

1.	Stadio (Pty) Ltd