SAQA 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.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Higher Certificate in Acting for Camera 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
110669  Higher Certificate in Acting for Camera 
ORIGINATOR
City Varsity (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 02 - Culture and Arts  Performing Arts 
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  2019-09-11  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 does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to provide learners with the practical fundamentals of acting with a general understanding of the technical and artistic requirements of the processes involved in the making of productions for filmed performance within the South African film and television industry.

In addition, the qualification provides an articulation option for further study ensuring learning preparedness equipping them with the academic skills required to be successful in continuing levels of study in fields of performance and communication.

Rationale:
The provision of this qualification has been determined by the following factors:
  • The increase in number of Matriculants qualifying without Bachelor's entry and the lack of accredited Certificates focusing on performing arts providing access to further study in this field.
  • The growth of the South African television and film industry in both the production of international and local content that is seeking young but industry ready performers for the screen.

    Over the past decade, the South Africa government has identified the film industry as a sector with excellent potential for growth, and is regarded as a catalyst for both direct and indirect employment of people from different sectors of the economy. According to the NFVF (National Film and Video Foundation of South Africa), The increase in film and television production, be it local, co-production or service production, has resulted in a much larger pool of qualified and experienced technical crews who contribute to making this industry such a hub of activity. The industry now needs performers who are ready to contribute to the large amount of content creation for both local and international productions, particularly geared towards the global media market. The theories and practices that underpin acting for camera are essential for any individual seeking to make a career in performance within the entertainment industry.

    Communication with various industry leaders has led to the understanding that the entertainment industry requires young actors who are grounded in the basic principles of acting, and carry sufficient professional skills to be industry ready to contribute performances for adverts, television shows and films.

    The qualification is developed to allow learners with an interest in performance and media who have qualified with a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 4 qualification, access into higher education in this field of study and fundamental knowledge and skills in these areas. 

  • LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution subscribes to the principles of lifelong learning and the role that the Recognition of Prior Learning plays in the promotion of lifelong learning, professional growth and career advancement.

    The fundamental underlying principle of the recognition of prior learning at the institution is the granting exemption for modules for which it is determined a potential student meets the exit criteria. In this regard, the institution recognises all forms of informal and non-formal learning to admission into its qualification.

    Recognition of prior learning for admission will only be applied in the institutional academic framework to learners seeking entrance into the qualification. For admissions into further levels of study the credit accumulation and transfer (CAT) system will apply.

    The institution's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy and Academic Credit Policy guides the RPL and academic credit process.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate, National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 4.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational, NQF Level 4. 

  • RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at Level 5 totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, 120 Credits:
  • Acting for Camera Techniques, 20 Credits.
  • Performing for National Markets, 10 Credits.
  • Introduction to Acting and Acting Instruments, 20 Credits.
  • Audition Preparation, 10 Credits.
  • Interpretation of Texts and Scripts, 20 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning, 10 Credits.
  • Communication Skills, 20 Credits.
  • Introduction to TV Presenting, 10 Credits. 

  • EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Manage the stock and logistics of a retail business following current industry practices for ethics and corporate governance.
    2. Informed understanding of the core areas, key terms, concepts, facts, general principles and theories of acting.
    3. Select and apply basic textual analysis, acting principles, rehearsal methods or techniques within a well-defined, familiar and supported environment in the field of acting equipping them to deliver a performance for screen.
    4. Act responsibly in accordance with prescribed production professional ethical codes of conduct, values and practices and to seek guidance on ethical and professional issues where referencing and acknowledgement of necessary sources in production of work (both practical).
    5. Evaluate and take account for personal and peer use in a defined structured learning process actions/performance, take appropriate action and be responsible for learning and resource. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • An appropriate strategic stock and logistics plan which will demonstrate knowledge of the logistics function is developed for a business.
  • Stock and logistics of a retail business including effective stock and logistic objectives, policies, strategies, action plans and a logistics budget are effectively planned for a year.
  • An effective stock control system is designed.
  • A supplier specification policy is compiled to ensure the right supply of prescribed products at the required conditions.
  • The best possible way of transporting products from the supplier to the business is determined.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Selects, explains and uses correct material and techniques in engaging with script/text analysis for the purpose of creating a performance.
  • Defines, describes and identifies core themes and concepts in the field of acting for camera, both at the rehearsal and production stages.
  • Applies appropriate concepts, principles, rules and methods in the discovery of the acting instrument (body and voice) and the creation of character.
  • Distinguishes at a basic level the practical difference between live performance and acting for camera.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Adheres to principles of character creation for performance which are evident through the rehearsal and performance work.
  • Demonstrates the ability to select appropriate tools and procedures and follow textual analysis methods in development of a character/and or performance.
  • Shows the use of various physical and vocal techniques in the creation of performance including but not limited to monologues, small group and large crowd scenes.
  • Produces performances in a consistent and well-prepared manner.
  • Constructs a screen audition portfolio suitable for the South African television and film industry showing consideration of realism acting principles and characterization.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Understands the impact of acting on society and carries awareness of cultural ethics in screen performance.
  • Understands the principles of through the use of body and voice and theoretical.
  • Develops professional and punctual attitude in the participation of production rehearsals and shoots.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Works and communicates effectively as a member of a team or group in projects or production environments.
  • Shows evidence of planning in development of work though practical rehearsals as well as preparatory script analysis work.
  • Successfully produces a variety of performances in group and individual (audition) scenarios.
  • Displays an understanding of the professional requirements and relationships of industry and imitates these in a structured environment.
  • Evaluates the work of self and others in peer evaluation exercises in a respectful and productive manner.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated assessment provides learners with an opportunity to display an ability to integrate practical performance, concepts and theory across subjects to achieve competence in relation to this qualification.

    Where possible assessments take the form of work-directed theoretical learning, problem-based learning or project-based learning. All Associated Assessment Criteria (AAC) are applied in an integrated way, throughout the duration of the qualification, to modules and areas of learning in a manner that ensures equitable evidence of theoretical understanding and practical application. To achieve this, a broad range of formative and Summative Assessment methods are used to assess mastery of knowledge, including, but not limited to, oral presentations, production of digital and paper based works, assessment of skills in a simulated production context, individual and group presentations, sit down exams, practical simulations and consultations with academic staff.

    Modules are annualised, to create the opportunity for integrated assessment of a combination of learning outcomes from various modules simultaneously at a given point. Continuous formative assessment creates the opportunity for learners to get feedback on their progress towards the achievement of specific learning outcomes; summative assessment is used to determine actual achievement of learning outcomes. 

  • INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The outcomes, assessment criteria, degree of complexity and the notional learning time of this qualification have been compared to similar qualifications from the following institutions:

    Los Angeles Performing Arts Conservatory, United States of America offers an Acting Certificate. The duration of the qualification is one year, and it offers the introduction to television and film acting techniques alongside the development of physical and vocal instruments. However, it is geared towards the Hollywood film industry and acting teachers from that part of the world. In comparison to the Higher Certificate in Acting for Camera, this qualification does not focus on academic support. This would make the South African qualification more relevant as it tailors itself towards the South African industry and allows for continuing study.

    Toronto Academy of Acting for Film and Acting, Canada offers a Film Acting Certificate. This qualification is "approved as a vocational qualification under the private career colleges act 2005." Learners of this qualification are encouraged to go on to further studies within the institution, transferring some credits into the Diploma qualification "Essentials for Acting."

    Creo Valley School of Film and Television, India offers an Acting Course. The Creo Valley School of Film and Television in Bangalore offers an Acting course comprising of the following modules:
  • Basics of Acting.
  • Concentration.
  • Action Problems.
  • Orientation to The World of Cinema.
  • Playback and Lip Sync.
  • Improvisation and Dubbing.
  • Yoga and Meditation.
  • Body Language.
  • Scenes and Character Study.
  • Expression Exercise.
  • Diction, Voice Culture and Voice Analysis.
  • Exercises for Observation and Imagination.
  • Vital Skills and Personality Enhancement.
  • The art of communication.
  • Acting Therapy.
  • Assertiveness.
  • Motivation.
  • Transformation.
  • Realising Potentials.

    Some of the above-mentioned modules compares favourably with the modules in the Higher Certificate in Acting for Camera, giving an overview of acting alongside some technical Film Acting skills. Once again here, there is no focus on any academic upskilling or theoretical development.

    The Higher Certificate in Acting for Camera is distinguished from the international qualifications as the South African qualification focuses primarily on the academic support and development of the learners. The results of the comparability studies conducted reveal that this qualification compares favourably with some of the international qualifications mentioned. However, it is noted that there is a strong underpinning on the practical components of Acting rather than a theoretical underpinning, involving academic work as indicated in the Higher Certificate in Acting for Camera.

    Therefore, to ensure international comparability, the Higher Certificate in Acting for Camera was compared with the standards and norms contained in the qualifications frameworks developed for Acting Certificate (USA), Film Acting Certificate (CA) and Acting Course (India). 

  • ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Higher Certificate in Film and Media Production, Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Media Arts, Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Arts: Film and Television Production Techniques, Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Arts: Professional Acting for Camera, 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.
     
    NONE 



    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.