Which programmes are trustworthy and market related? Is non credit bearing training worth the investment? Markets are concerned with these issues as they often question impacts and worth.

Credits and Credibility

If your programme is aligned to credit bearing quality standards it can be easier to pitch to a market. Non credit bearing can crack the nod in sectors where innovation is high and training dates quite quickly (such as in the IT sector).

If you train in a conventional area such as change management but believe your model is unique, get it accredited. Clients often assume that alignment to NQF standards means dumbing content down. It doesn’t!

Alignment means conforming to quality standards that you can add to. You don’t have to compromise your unique flavour.

If you offer training that will be outdated within 3 years, you’re likely tapping into scarce and critical areas. You’ll need to keep evolving so you always have market relevant products.

Credited Training Features  

1. Competency standards
2. Aligned to qualifications on the NQF
3. Assessment plans
4. Internal and external moderation
5. Quality Council / SETA verification
6. Learner results entered into NLRD
7. Coordinates with country based macro human resource development and economic strategies
8. Slow response time to market needs
9. Earns rewards – rebates, BEE points etc.

Non credited Training 

1. Focused on learning needs and solving specific problems
2. Assessment tools
3. Professional development materials often endorsed elsewhere (international / industry based organising bodies)
4. Can be scarce or critical skills based
5. Quick response time to market needs

Market Trust

Credit bearing implies credibility, training is endorsed by a Quality Council and providers have presumably met stringent quality demands. The public finds it easier to equate this training with personal value as it allows them to plug into the official qualifications framework, thereby obtaining an industry relevant qualification.

This doesn’t mean non-credit-bearing is untrustworthy, lacking in credibility. Often this training is aligned to reputable industry based bodies who adhere to strict standards.

I want to be accredited. Where do I begin?

Free Alignment Matrix and SETA programme evaluation reports

How Learning Programmes are developed, delivered and evaluated for Accreditation

Creating and Customising Learning Content for Accreditation