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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Higher Certificate in Radio and Podcasting 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
99532  Higher Certificate in Radio and Podcasting 
ORIGINATOR
South African School of Motion Picture Medium & Live Performance (Pty) Ltd / AFDA (The) 
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 04 - Communication Studies and Language  Communication Studies 
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
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2031-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

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.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The qualification offers exit level competences in the technical, vocational and support domains of the radio and podcast industries including:
  • Booking resources, facilities, studio time and equipment.
  • Editing audio packages with digital editing software.
  • Assisting with time-keeping.
  • Assisting with the recording of transmissions and 'driving the desk' for some pre-recorded or live programmes.

    Upon qualifying a learner will be able to enter the industry with an accredited qualification and/or be able to pursue further studies.

    Upon completion of this qualification learner should be able to:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the relevant legislative frameworks that governs radio.
  • Work in teams in a simulated broadcast context in order to assist in the studio or outside recording in a team context.
  • Operate a variety of studio and field recording and production audio equipment correctly and timeously.
  • Produce live and recorded programmes and items for transmission.
  • Summarise and discuss the foundational principles of station management, programme research, materials acquisition, rights management (including copyright issues) and programme archiving in order to understand and grasp managerial requirements of radio. This includes studio management, bookings, equipment handling, team requirements, working hours, and studio rules.
  • Communicate information reliably, accurately and coherently at an appropriate level.

    Rationale:
    The country has a proliferation of multi-provincial commercial stations, public service radio broadcasts, regional community stations and a growing number of internet stations. According to Media Club South Africa, radio has long been the most accessed form of media in South Africa, which also reaches into the poorest and most remote rural areas in the country. Furthermore they state that there is one radio set for every five South Africans in circulation, which amounts to many radio stations with millions of listeners. The radio stations broadcast in South Africa's eleven (11) official languages as well as in the San and Bushman languages. South Africa also has German, Hindi and Portuguese radio stations.

    According to the National Association of Broadcasters of South Africa, gross advertising revenue for South Africa's broadcasting industry has increased in value in recent years. According to the association, this growth reflects massive transformation in the industry, which is the result of changed legislation for regulating the industry. The legislation changes allow for more flexibility in the application and awarding of licenses.

    The Podcast industry is also growing with the following categories of broadcasters:
  • Independent enthusiasts, who create podcasts on a variety of topics with a niche market.
  • Media organisations like radio stations and newspapers supplementing their standard offering with podcasting.
  • Organisations that use podcasting for internal purposes.

    All of the above require skilled expertise, for content development as well as the acquisition of technical skills in the execution of programming and transmissions which are provided by the qualification. Thus the qualification is designed in such a way that it will deliver competent vocational assistants for the radio industry. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Entry Requirements:
    Access to the Higher Certificate is granted to all applicants who meet the minimum entrance requirements such as:
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational (NCV), Level 4 granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certification without endorsement.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:
    The institution will consider candidates who do meet the requirements for admission to the Higher Certificate qualification.

    The candidate must comply with the following:
  • Must have at least three years of vocational experience in the entertainment industry.
    Or
  • Must pass the Institutions entrance examination at Level 5.
    Or
  • Must present a portfolio of evidence demonstrating the required entry-level skills for Level 5 as per the Level Descriptors for the National Qualifications Framework.
    Advanced standing may be granted through RPL by the granting of module exemptions. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises compulsory modules at Level 5, totalling 120 Credits.
  • Introduction to Radio Broadcast and Podcast: [30 Credits].
    > Radio Genres, 10 Credits.
    > Legislative Frameworks, 10 Credits.
    > Media Ethics, 10 Credits.
  • Introduction to Programme Scheduling and Management: [30 Credits].
    > Station Management, 5 Credits.
    > Programme Research, 5 Credits.
    > Materials Acquisition, 5 Credits.
    > Studio Management, 5 Credits.
    > Rights Management, 5 Credits.
    > Programme Archiving, 5 Credits.
  • Introduction to Studio and Field Recording [20 Credits].
    > Sound Recording, 18 Credits.
    > Radio Performances, 2 Credits.
  • Introduction to Sound Mixing and Engineering [40 Credits].
    > Sound Mixing, 10 Credits.
    > Sound Engineering, 30 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate an awareness of the context in which radio production takes place, namely the legislative frameworks that govern the radio industry and the core principles of station management, and the principles of media ethics.
    2. Understand the core practices of radio production and podcasting.
    3. Operate a variety of studio, field recording and production audio equipment correctly and timeously.
    4. Summarise and discuss the foundational principles of station management, programme research, materials acquisition, rights management (including copyright issues) and programme archiving. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Current legislation and regulations such as The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA), The South African Audience Research foundation (SAARF), The South African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO), SENTECH (the South African signal distributor), The Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa (BCCSA) are explained, discussed and applied in radio production.
  • The professional practice and ethical requirements of radio production, for instance, appropriate behaviour in the studio is understood.
  • Industry-specific regulations and ethics are followed to ensure compliance with legislation and to show respect for the audience.
  • The quality of content is benchmarked against specified broadcasting requirements and standards.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Segments and programmes are understood of the following genres: Talk Radio, Music Radio, News Radio and Interview Radio to assist On Air staff.
  • Existing scripts are analysed to understand the style difference between music radio presentation and talk, news and interview radio when assisting 'On Air staff'.
  • Practical problems associated with radio production and podcasting are solved.
  • Understanding of how the different phases in the radio production process interface and impact on each other is demonstrated that is what the impact on the whole process can be if one task has not been completed to the required standard (E.g. a radio show cannot begin if the required inserts such as advertisements, songs or weather reports have not been properly prepared and loaded).

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Working in teams in a simulated broadcast context is understood and applied to assist in the studio or with recording in the field.
  • Audio levels are set and adjusted within production requirements.
  • Sound sources are managed and directed as required by programme sequence.
  • Microphone placement is set to achieve best voice quality.
  • Studio and field equipment are operated with fluency and without operational error.
  • Recording devices are used efficiently to obtain broadcast quality.
  • Audio output is monitored and evaluated within given criteria.
  • Programmes and items are edited and mixed to meet simulated transmission requirements.
  • A variety of studio and filed recording devices are operated.
  • Language is adjusted and made appropriate for specified contexts.
  • Ideas are generated according to style and format of given context.
  • Specifications that include required components are used.
  • The given technical quality requirements and standards are sourced and adhered to.
  • Mix programmes and items to meet simulated transmission requirements are edited.
  • Sound for four (4) radio programme segments or podcasts of a specified duration is recorded, edited and mixed.
  • Live and studio items are generated for transmission on radio or by podcast according to broadcast requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Managerial requirements of radio are understood which includes studio management, bookings, equipment handling, team requirements, working hours, and studio rules.
  • Relevant research methods that are used for eliciting information for specific purposes are discussed.
  • Relevant information is selected for specific purposes.
  • Credible diverse sources are accessed and verified.
  • Agreed ethical requirements are adhered to and recorded.
  • Recorded information is accessed and verified.
  • Correct information is recorded in an agreed format.
  • Information is recorded and updated within agreed time frames.
  • The professional and ethical practices of academic research, including the conventions of intellectual property, plagiarism and referencing are understood and maintained.

    Integrated Assessment
    Both formative and summative assessments will be used to assess the learners. Learners will complete one essay per term. The essays will cover a variety of set texts including texts that explain the legislative contexts governing radio broadcast and texts on media ethics. The assessment of these essays will focus on the following:
  • Comprehension.
  • Grammar, syntax and paragraph writing skills.
  • Basic academic argument.
  • Referencing.

    Learners will be exposed to vocational training in "Off Air" radio production positions, which will allow for employment as an assistant in the radio and podcast industries. Also in a workshop environment, learners will be assessed among other things on the following as well:
  • Recording, editing and transferring audio material for simulated transmission.
  • Recording voice artists noting.
  • Vocalisation and correctness of scripts being presented and recorded. (i.e., News copy, live read advertising text and interview introductions). 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification was compared to a qualification offered in New Zealand and to the standards required for Radio Broadcasting qualifications in Ontario.

    The New Zealand Radio Training School offers a National Certificate in Radio. This qualification covers the following aspects in the curriculum:
  • Announcing.
  • Prepare and perform live-to-air radio shows on campus-based radio station.
  • On-air basics, including voice and structure.
  • How to use the tools of the industry.
  • Media law - what you can and can't say on air.
  • How to develop your personality and build on-air character.
  • How to cater for performance to different audiences.
  • How to put callers to air and much more.
  • Manipulate sound into audio magic in a production suites.
  • Working with the same software the industry uses.
  • Creating a range of audio projects such as commercials, documentaries, station imaging and music features.

    The Government of Ontario initiated a programme standards development process with the objectives of bringing a greater degree of consistency to college programming offered across the province, broadening the focus of college programmes to ensure graduates have the skills to be flexible and to continue to learn and adapt, and providing public accountability for the quality and relevance of college programmes. Therefore the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities undertook to develop programme standards for Broadcasting-Radio programmes. Thus the standards advocated for all graduates of Broadcasting-Radio programmes must achieve the ten (10) Vocational Learning Outcomes (VLOs) listed below:
  • Create radio productions and audio content, in studio and on location, using relevant broadcasting equipment and related industry technologies.
  • Deliver, support and promote radio broadcast content via multiple platforms using a variety of media.
  • Participate in the planning and preparation of programming content for a variety of radio formats.
  • Monitor and evaluate the quality of radio broadcasts using appropriate relevant resources, tools and equipment which meet current industry standards.
  • Assist in promoting a station's brand and generating revenues through a variety of marketing and advertising sales activities.
  • Plan and prepare interviews, scripts and reporting content for use in radio broadcasts.
  • Use business skills and accepted industry practices in the completion of tasks and projects.
  • Keep abreast with the needs of the broadcast industry using strategies that enhance work performance and guide professional development.
  • Perform all work in compliance with relevant statutes, regulations, legislation, industry standards and company policies.
  • Present live programming on air to relay various types of information and stories in different formats.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification compares favourably with the above cited international qualification and the standards advocated by the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities for the development of Radio Broadcasting qualifications. All these qualifications are designed to enable learners to develop similar competencies in the field of radio broadcasting. However, there is a difference between this qualification and those offered by the above cited international qualifications and that is, the South African qualification also enables learners to develop competencies in Podcasting. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification only offers specific horizontal articulation opportunities with the following qualification offered by AFDA - The South African School of Motion:
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Higher Certificate in Film, Television and Entertainment Production (ID 90741), Level 5.

    The qualification also offers systemic articulation with the following qualifications offered by other institutions, provided the learner meets the minimum entry requirements:
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • National Certificate in Radio Production, Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies, Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS 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. South African School of Motion Picture Medium & Live Performance (Pty) Ltd / AFDA (The) 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.