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 THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE:

Diploma: Executive Secretarial Studies

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
60450	Diploma: Executive Secretarial Studies
ORIGINATOR
Prestige Academy (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
Advanced Certificate	Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies		Office Administration
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	255	Level 5	Level N/A: Pre-2009 was L5	Regular-Provider-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date - Status was "Reregistered"		SAQA 06120/18	2018-07-01	2018-12-31
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2019-12-31		2023-12-31

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:

This qualification is for any individual who is or wishes to get involved in the business or public services sector. It is a qualification in its own right and aims to equip learners with the necessary knowledge, practical skills and attitudes to perform a variety of secretarial roles and tasks within the office and business management environment.

At the exit point the learner with this qualification could earn an income through employment in a small, medium or large business enterprise, e.g. as Personal Assistant or Private Secretary. Alternatively, the qualified learner could seek employment as a specialized Legal Secretary, or Medical Secretary. In this way they will be able to make a meaningful contribution to the improvement of their own standard of living, as well as using opportunities to realize their full potential as an essential member of the support staff in companies and organizations.

This qualification is in line with the directives for registration of qualifications in the NSB Regulations. Learners who wish to exit the programme after completing the first academic year, will receive the Executive Secretary Certificate. Upon completion of the second year of academic study, they will receive the Executive Secretary Diploma.

The programme is structured around fundamental, core and elective components, both for the first year and second academic year. During the first year the curriculum covers modules such as Typing Techniques, Life Skills, Business Communication, Office and Secretarial Practice, as well as Entrepreneurship and Business Management. In addition, learners will master a range of computer using skills in the modules, Computer Practice 1 and 2, which are essential for all secretarial work today.

In the second year the learners will do advanced computer studies combined with Dictaphone Typing, and a variety of essential modules in Legal Secretarial Studies and Medical Secretarial Studies.

Rationale:

The National Executive Secretary Diploma aims to address specific human resource development and capacity building needs in South Africa. The Executive Secretary/Personal Assistant is an essential member of the support staff in any organization or company, irrespective of the nature of business and its size.

The programme is designed to meet the career development needs of those learners (both employed and seeking employment) in the Business Office environment. While there is a growing need for secretaries that can perform a range of tasks beyond traditional typing and filing (the so-called generalist), there is also a growing job market for secretaries who have specialized knowledge and skills related to legal and medical practice, e.g. within a private medical surgery. In medical private practice, for instance, secretaries often take responsibility for tasks such as book keeping, stock control and processing medical claims which are by definition the job of an accounts department. This programme will furthermore develop competencies in qualified secretaries to take responsibility for public relations and event management, which are important for business growth and customer relations.

From a different angle, there is a need for education and training (capacity building) programmes that will enable learners to become competent in specialized fields of secretarial practice within the process of lifelong learning which can release their human potential. Through this programme increased equity will be achieved by giving students from historically disadvantaged communities wider access to the identified learning opportunities, and thus addressing imbalances in the student profile of the past within the higher education sector.

This National Executive Secretary Diploma is aimed at learners who:

Wish to be equipped with specialized knowledge and skills to pursue a career in or extend their competencies in professional secretarial work.

Seek a learning programme that is tailor-made for the needs of the range of companies and organizations where professional secretaries are employed, e.g. as expressed by senior executives, attorneys and general medical practitioners.

Wish to combine career orientated knowledge and skills with modern technology used in the office and secretarial practice.

Were previously disadvantaged or who were denied access to formal learning programmes at post-school level.

Have worked as a secretary for many years but have no formal qualification, which limits job promotion and security of income.

Wish to get recognition for relevant prior learning and achieve a formal qualification that makes it easier to move up the value chain.

Have recently left school after acquiring a Grade 12 Certificate, or equivalent qualification.

Who do not meet entry qualifications into other higher education institutions (ie. Universities of Technology, and Universities), but still have the need to achieve a formal qualification at post-school (FET) level.

Who wish to continue with secretarial studies beyond a one year basic level.

After receiving this qualification the learner will be able to work as a professional secretary or personal assistant at any level, both within and outside South Africa.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Basic computer literacy and basic knowledge of accounting will be beneficial, but is not a prerequisite. Similarly, it is not required of learners to have done Biology at school (for the Medical Secretary component).

Recognition of Prior Learning:

The programme recognises 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. A specified number of credits are awarded for each module towards fulfilling the requirements of this qualification.

This recognition of prior learning may allow for:

Gaining of credits towards fulfilling the minimum requirements for the qualification.

Obtaining this qualification in whole or partially.

Accelerated access to further learning opportunities at a higher NQF Level.

The learner and assessor (for RPL) will jointly decide on the most appropriate and valid methods as well as tools to determine competence of specific knowledge, attitudes and skills based on the exit level outcomes and associated Unit Standards where available for this particular programme. 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 Qualification:

Learners have open access into the programme. The minimum entry qualification is a Grade 12 Certificate or equivalent. Since the language of tuition is English, students should be able to communicate in English.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

Section D. Curriculum Framework:

The curriculum for this programme is structured around specific as well as critical cross-field outcomes in combination with fundamental, core and elective components. Each of these components contain a theoretical, practical and/or experiential learning part for which certain credits are allocated, as indicated in the table below.

Curriculum Framework:

The curriculum framework below indicates the allocated credits for each learning modules, as well as the relevant delivery and learning mode, ie. theoretical, practical or experiential learning in each case.

First Year:

Fundamental; Theory; Practical; Experiential Learning; Credits:

Computer Practice 1 and 2; Yes; Yes; Yes; 30 Credits.

Typing Techniques 1 and 2; Yes; Yes; Yes; 10 Credits.

Life Skills; Yes; Yes; Yes; 10 Credits.

Basic Bookkeeping; Yes; No; Yes; 5 Credits.

Core Modules; Theory; Practical; Experiential Learning; Credits:

Office and Secretarial Practice 1 and 2; Yes; Yes; Yes; 45 Credits.

Business Communication 1 and 2; Yes; Yes; Yes; 15 Credits.

Electives; Theory; Practical; Experiential Learning; Credits:

Entrepreneurship and Business Management 1; Yes; No; No; 15 Credits.

Total = 130.

Second Year:

Fundamental; Theory; Practical; Experiential Learning; Credits:

Dictaphone Typing; Yes; Yes; Yes; 5 Credits.

Computer Practice 3; Yes; Yes; Yes; 15 Credits.

Human Resource Management; Yes; No; Yes; 2 Credits.

Marketing, Public Relations and Events Management; Yes; No; Yes; 3 Credits.

Core; Theory; Practical; Experiential Learning; Credits:

Science of Law; Yes; No; No; 2 Credits.

SA Legal System; Yes; No; No; 2 Credits.

Legal Ethics and Formalities; Yes; No; Yes; 2 Credits.

Legal Contracts, Forms and Documents; Yes; No ; Yes; 20 Credits.

Security in Legal Practice; Yes; No; Yes; 2 Credits.

Medical Information Management; Yes; No; Yes; 15 Credits.

Medical Reception Practice; Yes; No; Yes; 25 Credits.

Medical Secretarial Routines; Yes; No; Yes; 7 Credits.

Medical Ethics; Yes; No; Yes; 2 Credits.

Medical Stock Control and Dispensing; Yes; No; Yes; 4 Credits.

Electives; Theory; Practical; Experiential Learning; Credits:

Legal Laws (Trust, Insolvency, Administration of Estates); Yes; No; No; 12 Credits.

Management of Money; Yes; No; Yes; 2 Credits.

Bookkeeping in Medical Practice; Yes; No; Yes; 2 Credits.

Debt Management in Medical Practice; Yes; No; Yes; 3 Credits.

Total = 125.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

Exit-Level Outcomes:

At completion of this programme, the learner will be able to demonstrate the following:

Perform typing tasks such as typing a letter and electronic data capturing on computer.

Apply different computer software programmes to execute secretarial tasks such as data capturing, writing letters and reports, and bookkeeping.

Identify and apply critical life skills such as cultural sensitivity, interpersonal communication, assertiveness and conflict management to secretarial practice.

Explain the requirements for professional office and secretarial practice and apply it to daily workplace routines.

Describe the principles and processes of effective business communication and apply it to secretarial practice.

Identify the key features of an entrepreneur and compile a feasible business plan.

Describe the requirements and processes of effective business management.

Describe the critical elements of and processes in effective human resource management in a business or organisation.

Explain the principles and strategies of marketing and public relations, and apply it to events management.

Explain the essence of Law within the world of work.

Describe the unique and critical features of the legal system in South Africa.

Describe the common legal formalities, processes and different types of contracts.

Identify different forms and documents used in legal and medical practice, and explain the purpose of each.

Explain the role of security and confidentiality in legal practice.

State the requirements for effective information management and apply it to medical and legal secretarial practice by using different computer software programmes.

Describe and apply the processes and routines involved in medical reception practice.

Name the underpinning principles of medical and legal ethics, and apply it to dealing with clients as well as information management.

State the requirements of thorough medical stock control and dispensing practice.

Describe the principles of Laws of Trust, Insolvency and Administration of Estates.

State the requirements of effective management of money in medical practice, basic principles of bookkeeping and processes of debt management.

Cross-Field Outcomes; Associated Assessment Criteria:

Communicate effectively using different modes of interpersonal, oral and electronic messages; Demonstrate competence in interpersonal communication (e.g. verbal and listening skills), e-mail and written communication with colleagues, executives and clients.

Demonstrating problem-solving skills using critical and proactive thinking; Demonstrate the ability to solve a variety of work-related problems combined with rational decisions, e.g. dealing with difficult customers.

Organise him/herself responsibly and effectively; Demonstrate the ability to operate independently within the working environment, e.g. by way of time management and priority setting.

Collect, analyse, organise, and critically evaluate information for executing tasks; Demonstrate the ability to perform tasks dependent on information skills within the workplace, e.g. opening patient files, and processing medical claims.

Work effectively as a team member, or within an organization; Demonstrate the ability to work with staff at different levels (e.g. colleagues, members of the executive, cleaning staff, etc) to execute tasks.

Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and the health of others; Demonstrating the ability to apply ethical-legal principles such as confidentiality of information when using computers to execute tasks such as storing, organizing and communicating information.

Understanding the world as a set of inter-related systems by recognizing that problem-solving does not happen in isolation; Demonstrating the ability to generate solutions to problems while considering the pro's and con's of different options and the role of different influencing factors.

Exploring education and career opportunities, and developing entrepreneurial abilities; Demonstrate commitment to become a professional secretary combined with entrepreneurship. e.g. through compiling a business plan.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria:

Assessment should ensure that learning performance is evaluated against all specific outcomes, embedded knowledge and critical cross-field outcomes. At the same time, assessment should be valid, fair, reliable and consistent.

There is a inherent link between learning, teaching and assessment; therefore assessment should be integrated. This implies that:

Assessment is conducted throughout the programme (formative assessment), as well as at the exit point to determine whether learning outcomes have been achieved and the extent thereof (summative assessment).

Assessment of theoretical knowledge and practical components should be conducted together.

Assessment should focus on fundamental, core and elective components as well as incorporation of critical cross-field outcomes together with specific learning outcomes an integrated manner.

A variety of appropriate formative and summative assessment methods and instruments should be used.

Assessment practice should reflect the unique circumstances and conditions applicable to the delivery of this particular programme (in context).

Assessment on the applicable critical cross-field outcomes should be conducted according to the criteria indicated in the table below.

Experiential Learning:

Experiential learning is an integral part of this programme. Learners will be given adequate opportunity to apply knowledge and practical skills in a workplace environment, and thereby get exposure to learning outside the classroom or laboratory, e.g. at a legal practice and medical surgery. Such learning will be based on the exit-level outcomes.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

This qualification will ensure that the quality of secretarial education and training is enhanced and of a world-class standard. Benchmarking was done by comparison of this programme (the title, specific outcomes, embedded knowledge, etc) with similar programmes elsewhere. The best practice aspects of such benchmark cases were incorporated into this programme. It is thus on par with similar education and training offered elsewhere, for example at Northlink College and by the International College Group (ICG) in Cape Town.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

Possibilities exist for articulation to other qualifications horizontally, within and external to this particular Institution, as well as vertically to the next level qualification within and external to the Institution.

This qualification articulates horizontally with the following qualification offered by Prestige Academy:

Business Administration Management Diploma (NQF Level 5).

After achieving this qualification, learners may progress to further specialized education. Vertical articulation is possible with the following qualification:

BCom Management (NQF Level 6).

MODERATION OPTIONS

As part of our ongoing quality assurance and development programme, Prestige Academy has a formal Moderation. It differentiates between routine moderation and appeals moderation, and also states the framework for moderation practice, including moderation principles, methods and procedures to be applied by all lecturers.

Other framework elements concerning moderation of learning within this programme are as follows:

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 the stated learning outcomes applicable tot this qualification.

Internal moderation of assessment is overseen by the Rector (who is an accredited moderator).

We are in the process of establishing a Moderation Consortium for higher education institutions in the Western Cape. From this pool of resources, moderators with the necessary qualifications (both in the applicable subject field, and moderation practice) will be used in this programme.

CRITERIA FOR THE 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.

REREGISTRATION HISTORY

As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2009; 2012; 2015.

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.	Prestige Academy (Pty) Ltd