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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
103089  Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science 
ORIGINATOR
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 02 - Culture and Arts  Sport 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  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   2033-06-30  

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:
In line with the vision of the National Development Plan (NDP) of ensuring a long and healthy life for all South Africans, one of the priorities listed is to address the social determinants that affect health and disease. The promotion of healthy diets and physical activity is promoted in this document.

Graduates will also be able to analyse athlete and team performance and independently facilitate sport participation grounded on scientific coaching techniques, skills and strategies for various populations, including schools, government institutions (Department of Defence and Military Veterans, Correctional Services, etc.) sports federations, communities, fitness centres and sport clubs. Students specialising in sport science will be trained to add value in the Sport Science Institutes or High Performance Centres (HPCs), offering skills in aspects related to fitness testing; functional exercise testing; sport-physiology laboratory and/or field testing; as well as contributing by independently organising sport events or under the supervision of a Head Coach, Club Managers, Directors or managers of sport centres or HPCs and measure human performance capacity.

Graduates will also be able to demonstrate knowledge and skills in leadership, management, organisation and entrepreneurial skills, within the context of diverse South African or international environments, by planning projects, performing administrative duties and communicating in a professional, sensitive and prejudice-free manner.

Rationale:
The role of sport in South Africa continues to grow in social importance. If sport is to become truly accessible for all South Africans, it is essential that sport coaches and sport scientists receive the best possible education and training through all the levels to enable all citizens to participate in sport. Therefore, this qualification will ensure that the graduate will have the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute to the upliftment of living standards of the community at large, focussing not only on the apparently healthy population, but on the fitness training for special populations such as children, the youth, older adults and persons with disabilities as well. Completion of this 360-Credit Diploma meets the minimum entry requirement for admission to an Advanced Diploma but accumulated credits may also be presented for admission into a cognate Bachelor's Degree programme.

The Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science is a vocational learning programme on Level 6 of the National Qualification Framework (NQF) with the minimum credits of 360. The graduate will be trained to be a Technician Kinesiologist working under the guidance of a Head coach/Club Manager/Gymnasium Manager or Sports Supervisor, with the necessary knowledge and skills in the field of coaching; fitness testing; functional exercise testing; sport-physiology; laboratory and/or field testing as well as assisting in organising sport within the national sport, health and fitness industry.

Kinesiology and sport coaching have entered a period of rapid growth as a profession. Accredited academic programmes in Coaching Science offer a scientific pathway for the emerging demand for qualified coaches in both the local and global sport contexts. Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in this regard must keep abreast of developments such as the professionalisation of the profession and recent establishment of a regulation council (e.g. Coaching Association of South Africa (CASA)). Programmes of this nature conforms to the drive of the Department of Sport and Recreation South Africa (SRSA) along with South African Sport Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) towards Long Term Athlete Development and Long Term Coach development in South Africa alongside the goal of a stronger, inclusive and transformed sporting nation. At the same rate there are also a large number of students who end up working as private instructors and managers in private fitness and wellness clubs. South Africa is currently the country with the fastest growing private fitness and wellness club industry in the world.

This qualification in Kinesiology and Coaching Science will prepare professionals to be employed as sports scientists, sports coaches, sports managers, and sports researchers. Qualified students will function at such a level to cater for the needs of an apparently healthy population as well as fitness training for special populations such as children, the youth and older adults.

This qualification offers a physical activity foundation based on scientific knowledge to facilitate health and sport in order to support health workers, as well as enhancing the level of professionalism within the national sport, health and fitness industry.

The necessary under built in the Diploma for specialisation and further research in the Advanced Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science is developed in the fields of Sport Coaching and Sport Science. Students specialising in the field of sport coaching will be able to apply for positions in sport development and performance environments. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
As per institutional policy and in line with rule 34.a of the National Policy for the Implementation of the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), access into the Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science may be applied for by those who do not meet the formal entry requirements for admission. However, it should be noted that in terms of the policy, credits and/or access towards the Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science may only be awarded for knowledge and skills acquired through experience and not for experience alone.

Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement is:
  • Senior Certificate without endorsement.
    Or
  • A National Senior Certificate (NSC) granting access to Diploma studies with English, Life Sciences and Mathematics. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory modules at Levels 5 and 6 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory modules at Level 5: 168 Credits:
  • Human Anatomy I, 12 Credits.
  • Human Physiology I, 12 Credits.
  • Foundations of Sport Coaching Sciences, 20 Credits.
  • Sport Science I, 20 Credits.
  • Sport Science II, 20 Credits.
  • Sport Studies I, 12 Credits.
  • Communication for Academic Purposes, 10.
  • Computer Literacy, 10 Credits.
  • Information Literacy, 2 Credits.
  • Life Skills, 2 Credits.
  • Biomechanics I, 18 Credits.
  • Nutrition I, 12 Credits.
  • Psycho-Social Sciences I, 12 Credits.
  • Adaptive Physical Activity I, 6 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at Level 6: 192 Credits:
  • Exercise Anatomy and Physiology I, 18 Credits.
  • Sport Science II, 18 Credits.
  • Motor Learning and Human Development I, 6 Credits.
  • Sport Practical II, 24 Credits.
  • Coaching Science II, 18 Credits.
  • Sport Studies II, 6 Credits.
  • Sport Science III, 20 Credits.
  • Exercise Anatomy and Physiology II, 18 Credits.
  • Sport Practical III, 26 Credits.
  • Coaching Science III, 20 Credits.
  • Sport and Exercise Psychology I, 18 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Independently design basic outcome-specific training programmes and provide advisory service on sport, nutrition, health and exercise aspects by applying key terms, concepts, facts, principles rules and theories relevant to the field of kinesiology and coaching sciences.
    2. Evaluate, select and apply sport-specific coaching techniques and strategies for various populations at schools, communities, fitness centres and sport clubs.
    3. Demonstrate interpersonal skills in conducting physical activity and sport coaching programmes for individuals, teams, clubs and local communities.
    4. Produce and communicate complex information reliably and coherently using appropriate academic and professional conventions, formats and technologies, relevant to the field of kinesiology and coaching sciences.
    5. Demonstrate leadership and entrepreneurial skills, by planning projects, performing administrative duties and communicating in a professional manner.
    6. Display ethical and professional practices in all actions by demonstrating an understanding of the ethical implications of decisions and actions.
    7. Access, process and manage information related to the field of kinesiology and coaching sciences to solve problems within unfamiliar context. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Demonstrate sport-physiological laboratory testing techniques which are consistent with standard safety and ethical principles.
  • Apply the psychological aspects of sport, recreation and fitness in the design, implementation and evaluation of exercise and coaching programmes.
  • Scientifically train and coach athletes, by applying anatomical and biomechanical principles.
  • Design, monitor, analyse and evaluate exercise and coaching programmes.
  • Evaluate the level and competency of athletes and correct shortcomings in performance techniques by designing and implementing appropriate programmes.
  • Advise on nutrition for health and performance by applying nutritional principles.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Conduct exercise training programmes for special populations, e.g. children, the elderly and persons with disabilities.
  • Display diverse strategies to act as change-agents and social activists to become an advocate in school-sport and sport within the broader community in order to promote a variety of physical and recreational activities and sport opportunities for all.
  • Execute all sport activities and initiatives without prejudices of class, gender, culture, ethnicity, disability and social standing.
  • Structure practice opportunities for maximum participation (individual, partner, small-group activities).
  • Integrate, interrogate and communicate the connection between scholarship of kinesiology and the goals of public health in programmes developed.
  • Create appropriate environments to initiate and maintain a physical active healthy lifestyle.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Articulate a philosophy that physical activity programmes are important to health and wellbeing of all individuals and that physical recreational activity and sport participation have a potential to foster self-expression, growth and development, learning and social cohesion.
  • Identify, select and implement appropriate instruction that is sensitive to the clients' strengths/weaknesses, multiple needs, learning styles and prior learning experiences (e.g. cultural, personal, family, and community).
  • Identify the risks of and safe approaches to exercise and physical activity.
  • Organise space, sport equipment and clients for optimal use of time and resources.
  • Demonstrate teamwork skills on the sport field and in all relevant areas of work.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Use language in a clear and concise manner, giving and receiving feedback appropriate to the level of the client.
  • Communicate instructional information in a variety of ways such as internet, video, posters, bulletin boards etc.
  • Communicate information and instructions in such a manner that it accommodates ethnic, cultural, socio-economic, ability, and gender differences.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Perform routine administrative duties within schools, communities, and fitness and sport clubs.
  • Apply basic planning principles relevant to sport and exercise.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Consider ethical implications of all actions taken.
  • Manage ethical aspects and/or dilemmas in a professional manner according to industry standards and ethical guidelines.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Gather information to solve problems related to kinesiology and coaching science.
  • Base solutions to solve problems on evidence and procedures appropriate to the field of kinesiology and coaching science.
  • Analyse, synthesise and evaluate information to find solutions to problems.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The applied competence (practical, foundational and reflective competencies) of this qualification will be achieved if a learner is able to achieve the Exit Level Outcomes of the qualification as per the rules specified. Applied competence will be assessed during any combination of practical, foundational and reflexive competencies assessment methods and tools to determine the whole person development and integration of applied knowledge and skills.

    Certain Exit Level Outcomes are measurable and verifiable through Associated Assessment Criteria assessed in one application. Applicable assessment tools to assess the foundational, reflective and practical competencies within the regulatory environment.

    A detailed portfolio of evidence is required of the practical, foundational and reflective competencies of the learner. Assessors and moderators should develop and conduct integrated assessment by making use of a range of formative and summative methods. Assessors should assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired (RPL) through any form of learning.

    During integrated assessment, the assessor will make use of formative and summative assessment methods and should assess combinations of practical, foundational and reflective competencies. Because assessment practices must be open, transparent, fair, valid, and reliable and ensure that no learner is disadvantaged in any way whatsoever, the qualification applies in an integrated assessment approach.

    A variety of methods must be used in assessment, and tools and activities must be appropriate to the context in which the learner is working. Where it is not possible to assess the learner in the workplace or on-the-job, simulations, case studies, role-plays and other similar techniques should be used to provide a context appropriate to the assessment.

    Formative Assessment:
    Assessment criteria for formative assessment will typically take place during training and serves to guide the learner towards full competence and is described in this qualification. Formative assessment takes place during the process of learning and assessors can use a range of appropriate assessment methods and tools or in any agreed-upon method of assessment of the knowledge required to perform the various competencies in a holistic manner. To be allowed access to the final qualifying assessment, a learner must show that he/she has reached a level of overall integrated competence.
    The methods of assessment could include but not limited to the following:
  • Practicals.
  • Role-play and/or Simulations.
  • Knowledge tests, exams, case studies, projects, logbooks, workbooks.
  • Verbal report backs (presentations).
  • Portfolios of Evidence.
  • Working in teams (360 Degrees evaluations).
  • Scenario sketching Incident reports.

    The assessment tools and methods used by the assessor must be:
  • Fair, not to hinder or disadvantage the learner in any way.
  • Valid, to measure what is intended to measure.
  • Reliable, consistent and delivers the same output across a range of learners and assessors.

    Summative Assessment:
    For the learner to be certified competent against the qualification, he/she must prove overall competence through the integration of the competencies expressed in this qualification. The elements of importance here are overall abilities, problem-solving capability and safe working. In addition, assessors should be satisfied that the learner has achieved a level of competence to be able to take charge of any aspect of the regulatory operations.

    The learner's ability to demonstrate competence against this standard under real-life or simulated working conditions and in the presence of an assessor, will be assessed.

    Methods of Assessment:
    The following methods of assessment have been identified as the preferred measurement and assessment of learner competence in the assessment criteria:
  • Portfolio of Evidence.
  • Written tests.
  • Practical tests.
  • Oral assessment methods.
  • Simulation.
  • Structured classroom discussions and oral tests. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification was compared against the qualification frameworks from countries such as United States of America (USA), United Kingdom (UK) and Australia and it has shown a substantial degree of similarity regarding subject matter and programme content. This qualification was also compared against other African countries such as Botswana and Zimbabwe since similar qualifications are currently offered in those countries.

    University of Technology Sydney, Australia:
    Bachelor of Human Movement (3 years full time):
    The Bachelor of Human Movement meets the demand for professionals to be able to provide physical activity services to all sectors of the community. The course provides students with a strong understanding of the processes and mechanisms underlying human movement, and with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage and plan human movement activities in leisure and education contexts.

    This qualification differs in that it is offered in a semester block whilst the qualification we have developed is on a yearly basis.

    University of Western Sydney, Australia:
    Bachelor of Health Science (Personal Development, Health and Physical Education): 3 years full time. This qualification brings together a comprehensive foundation of health sciences, understanding of physical activity and personal development, and skills in interacting with diverse people. Learners will gain the theoretical skills to analyse new challenges, and the practical skills required to help people improve their health through physical activity and greater awareness of lifestyle issues. The course explores challenging areas of personal development, including youth health issues, specialty, drugs, psychology and risk-taking behaviours, as well as general health science, including human biology, health systems, health promotion and research.

    University of Botswana:
    The University of Botswana offers a 4-year Bachelor of Education Degree in Physical Education designed to produce well qualified teachers, train sport administrators, coaches, recreation leaders. The main focus of the programme is on teacher training. This makes it different from the Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science qualification in that it is not intended for teacher preparation. Also the qualification at the University of Botswana does not train sport scientists unlike the Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science qualification. However, the qualification is similar with the Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science programme in the sense that they both also train coaches and sport administrators.

    At all the levels of study, the Bachelor of Education Degree in Physical Education includes practical subjects in various sports which are similar to the Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science qualification. The Botswana qualification also includes Anatomy and Physiology in its 2nd year, but this is taught in the first year of the Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science qualification. Other areas not included in the Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science programme but which are covered in the Botswana Physical Education qualification are: Sports and Culture, Sports Journalism, Community Recreation and Principles of Sports Management. However, the Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science programme has the following subjects not offered in the Bachelor of Education degree in Physical Education in Botswana: Introduction to Sport and Exercise Psychology, Fundamentals of Physiology, Kinesiology and Coaching Science. Both qualifications have the following common subjects with difference didactical emphasis: Research Methods, Nutrition, Physical Activity and Health, Motor Learning and Development.

    The Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science qualification provides a unique opportunity to train sport scientists and coaches who are great need in the country to promote sport participation and development in South African schools, townships and communities. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification offers the following articulation possibilities.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • An appropriate Diploma, Level 6.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Advanced Diploma in Kinesiology and Coaching Science, Level 7. 
    		•

    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. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) 


    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.