An Insight Into NATED Courses At Skills Academy

Navigating through the educational pathways available to students can often be a daunting task. With a variety of options, each with its unique offerings and potential career paths, making an informed decision becomes vital.  It is therefore important to what NATED courses are.

What Are The Different Types Of NATED Courses Available At Skills Academy?

NATED courses, or National Accredited Technical Education Diploma courses, cater to a wide array of learners, particularly those who seek a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills in their educational journey. 

These courses are meticulously designed for individuals who aspire to immerse themselves in the technical and vocational areas of education, thereby paving the way towards a skill-oriented career path.

Who Can Benefit From NATED Courses?

NATED courses are designed to cater to a diverse group of individuals, each at different stages in their academic or professional journey. Whether you are a recent school-leaver seeking a direct pathway to start your career, or a working professional aiming to climb the career ladder. NATED courses have something to offer everyone. Take a look at some benefits:

  • School Leavers: If you have finished school and are looking for a direct path to a career, this is for you
  • Working Professionals: If you are working but want to learn more to move up in your career, look no further
  • Career Changers: If you are thinking of trying a new career and need to learn new skills, you are in the right place
  • Lifelong Learners: If you love learning new things all the time, NATED courses have plenty to offer

Here is a table that provides everything you should know about NATED courses:

NATED course list 

What does NATED mean?

NATED stands for National Accredited Technical Education Diploma

Accreditation

NATED courses are accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) 

Requirements 

To study a NATED course, you need to have a Matric Certificate. A Matric Equivalent Certificate is also accepted

Structure

A NATED course consists of three levels. N Level 4, N Level 5, and N Level 6. After completing the theory part of N Level 6, there is a practical section. Completing this qualifies you for the N6 National Diploma, which is just below a Bachelor’s Degree

NQF Levels

NATED courses range from N level 4 to N level 6. These correspond to the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) levels, which determine the educational level of a qualification. For instance, the N6 Diploma is an NQF level 6 Diploma

Duration

To get a full N6 diploma, it takes 3 years. This includes 18 months of theory studies and another 18 months of work experience

Difference with NCV

NCV, or National Certificate Vocational Qualification, is offered from NQF levels 2 to 4, while NATED is from NQF levels 5 to 6.

How Do NATED Courses Work?

Navigating through NATED courses is like stepping into a structured yet flexible world of learning, where your educational journey is interwoven with valuable work experiences. 

Did you know? With NATED courses, you can dive into the working world right after you finish the first level. What is even cooler? After you complete each level, you earn a NATED Certificate. And once you have worked through all the levels, including doing 18 months of work experience, a Diploma is yours!

How Do I Pass Each NATED Level?

Passing each level in a NATED course involves a blend of learning in the classroom and showing what you know in assessments. Take a look at the steps to pass each level:

  • Select Your Subjects: Choose four subjects at each level
  • Show What You Know: Each subject has assignments, as well as internal and external exams
  • Get Practical: After your classroom learning, you will need 18 months of work experience to earn your diploma

Business Management

Business Management is not just a course. It is a journey to understanding how businesses work, how they make decisions, and how they manage their resources. But why do so many students choose it, and what will you learn on the way? First, take a look at the courses offered under this category: 

Reasons for Popularity:

  • Skills for All Sectors: What you learn in Business Management can be used in lots of different jobs and industries
  • Career Doors: It opens up many career paths, like becoming a Manager, Analyst, or even starting your own business
  • Developing Leadership: You will learn how to guide a team and make strategic decisions

What Will You Learn?

These courses are structured to provide practical skills and knowledge across various fields, making them a versatile choice for a wide array of learners. Look at what students will learn:

  • Leadership Skills: Understand different ways to lead and manage teams effectively
  • Strategic Planning: Learn how to make plans for a business and put them into action
  • Managing Operations: Understand how to organise, control, and manage the parts of a business that create goods or services
  • Financial Management: Learn how to manage a business’s money, including budgeting and financial planning

Educare

This is a special course that helps you learn all about taking care of children and teaching them in a fun and helpful way. But what does it teach you, and how does it help you get ready for a job in education? Here are the courses available at Skills Academy: 

The NATED Educare Course provides the essential tools and knowledge for effectively working with young children in schools or daycare centres. Here is its impact:

  • Understanding Little Ones: Learn about how children grow and how you can help them at each stage
  • Play and Learn: Find out how children learn while they play and how to make learning fun with different activities
  • Keeping Safe and Healthy: Learn how to make sure the place where children learn and play is safe and good for their health
  • Working with Parents: Develop skills to talk and work with parents and caregivers to help children learn and grow

What Will You Learn In The Educare Course?

The NATED Educare Course teaches you lots of important things about looking after children and helping them learn. Here are some key things you will learn:

  • Keeping Children Healthy: Learn about child health and how to make sure they are growing up healthy
  • Understanding How Children Think: Learn about children’s thoughts and feelings, and how to support them
  • Running a Daycare: Learn how to manage a daycare, plan fun activities, look after staff, and make sure everything is safe and follows the rules
  • Teaching Young Children: Understand different ways to teach little children and plan fun learning activities

Financial Management

Diving into Financial Management means exploring a world where numbers and business meet. It is all about learning how money works within businesses, how to manage it, plan with it, and make decisions about it. But what exactly does the Financial Management course at Skills Academy teach you, and what are the main parts of the course? Take a look at these courses available: 

Financial Management is like a guide to the world of business money management. It helps you learn:

  • Understanding Money in Business: Learn how money moves in a business, how it is used, and how to plan with it
  • Budgeting: Learn how to plan how money will be spent and saved in a business
  • Financial Decision-Making: Understand how to make choices about money that help a business succeed
  • Managing Financial Resources: Learn how to use the money a business has in the best way.

Human Resource Management

This is a special area that focuses on people in the workplace, making sure they are happy, well-trained, and have everything they need to do their jobs well. But how is it different from other management courses, and what will you learn when you dive into this subject? Here are the course options available: 

Human Resource Management is unique because it is all about people in a business. Here is how it stands out:

  • People-focused: It is all about managing people, not just processes or finances
  • Employee Wellbeing: Learn how to make sure employees are happy and healthy in their jobs
  • Training and Development: Focus on helping employees learn and grow in their careers
  • Handling Workplace Issues: Learn how to solve problems that might happen in the workplace.

What Will You Learn In The Human Resource Management Course?

The Human Resource Management course is like a roadmap to understanding and helping people in the workplace. Here are some key things you will learn:

  • Personnel Management: Learn how to manage people at work, make sure they are happy, and help them solve any problems
  • Labour Relations: Understand the rules for workers and how to make sure everyone is treated fairly at work
  • Human Resource Management: Learn about hiring people, helping them develop their skills, and making sure they have what they need to succeed
  • Computer Practice: Understand how to use computers to keep track of employee information and use it to make decisions

Legal Secretary

Stepping into the Legal Secretary course, you will dive into a world where law and administrative skills meet. It is all about learning how to support lawyers and legal teams with all the administrative tasks they need to do their jobs well. But what skills will you learn during this course? First, take a look at our courses:

Here are the skills that students can develop:

  • Legal Administration: Learn how to manage legal documents, schedules, and communicate with clients
  • Understanding of Law: Gain knowledge about legal terms, processes, and how the legal system works
  • Communication: Develop your written and spoken communication skills to interact effectively in a legal environment
  • Organisation: Learn how to keep everything in order, from appointments to important documents

Management Assistant

Considering the Management Assistant course? It is a path that teaches you how to be the right hand of a manager, helping them with all sorts of tasks to keep the office running smoothly. But why should you consider it, and what will you learn? The courses we offer are the following: 

Reasons to Consider:

  • Versatile Skills: Learn skills that you can use in many kinds of businesses and roles
  • Organisation Expertise: Become an expert in keeping things organised and managing tasks and schedules
  • Communication: Develop your ability to communicate well with team members and clients

What You Will Learn:

  • Office Communication: Learn how to communicate effectively within an office environment
  • Office Practice: Understand how to manage various office tasks and responsibilities
  • Information Processing: Learn how to manage, organise, and process information efficiently
  • Computer Practice: Gain skills in using computers and various software used in office management

What Are The Top 5 Benefits Of NATED Courses?

NATED Courses stand out in the educational landscape, offering a unique blend of convenience and quality education with just a matric certificate as an entry requirement. Here are the top 5 benefits that make NATED Courses shine:

  • Study From Home
  • Choose From A Wide Range Of Options 
  • Further your studies 
  • Gain Both Practical Experience And Theoretical Knowledge
  • Work and study at the same time

Study From Home

NATED Courses are offered online which makes learning very convenient. No daily commutes, no rushing to classes. You will be able to go through your studies at your own pace from anywhere. 

Choose From A Wide Range Of Options

Whether your heart is set on finance, education, or perhaps the business world, there is a course got everyone. This wide selection means you get to decide a path that is not just a course, but a journey into a field that sparks your interest and aligns with your career dreams.

Further Your Studies

NATED Courses are like stepping stones, allowing you to build your qualifications step by step. Start where you are and climb your way up to higher levels at your own pace. This gradual progression does not just boost your skills but also stacks up your qualifications, polishing your CV and elevating your career prospects bit by bit. 

Gain Both Practical Experience And Theoretical Knowledge

NATED Courses blend theory with hands-on application. It is not just about learning concepts but also covers the topic in a way students will be able to apply them in the real world. 

This mix ensures you are not just knowledgeable but also a practical problem solver in the workplace.

Work And Study At The Same Time

No choosing between earning and learning, you can do both! NATED Courses are flexible enough to let you work while you study. The skills and knowledge you pick up during your course can be applied straight to your workplace, enhancing your work performance while you are still learning.

What Career Options Do I Have After Completing NATED Courses?

After completing NATED courses, a world of diverse and exciting career opportunities awaits you. These courses are specifically designed to not only equip you with specialised knowledge and skills but also to open doors to various professional paths in numerous industries.

What Job Roles Can NATED Business Management Graduates Expect?

Graduates of NATED Business Management courses can look forward to a variety of engaging and rewarding job roles in the dynamic world of business. This comprehensive program equips students with a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, making them well-suited for several key positions in the business sector. Here are some examples you could consider:

  • Sales Consultant
  • Retail Store Manager
  • Sales and Marketing Assistant

Where Can NATED Educare Graduates Find Employment?

Your NATED course has prepared you to guide and nurture children during their crucial early years. The course you completed provided you with the knowledge and skills to enter into any of these careers: 

  • Au Pair
  • Childcare professional
  • Nanny

Which Sectors Hire NATED Financial Management Graduates?

Financial Management graduates, you are the financial experts organisations need to manage their finances, ensuring stability and growth. Your NATED course has turned you into a guide for businesses to navigate through their financial journey. Take a look at a few examples of careers you could enter: 

  • Finance Co-ordinator
  • Financial Administrator
  • Accounting Clerk
  • Financial Advisors
  • Bookkeeper and Administrative Officer
  • Costing/Financial Administrator
  • Auditor
  • Insurance Sales Manager

What Positions Are Available For NATED Human Resource Management Graduates?

Human Resource Management graduates, you are the bridge between organisations and their employees, ensuring a harmonious and mutually beneficial environment. Your NATED course has equipped you with the skills to manage, guide, and support both the organisation and its employees. Completing this NATED course could make you eligible for the following careers: 

  • Human Resource Clerk
  • HR Practitioner
  • Human Resources Business Partner
  • Junior HR Consultant

What Should I Know About The Entry Requirements For NATED Courses?

Stepping into the world of NATED Courses is quite an exciting venture! A matric certificate and a proficient ability to read, write, and understand English are your entry keys. Matric equivalent qualifications are also accepted. 

Are There Specific Academic Qualifications Needed To Enrol In A NATED Course?

Your matric certificate is needed to gain entry into the NATED Course of your choice. It signifies that you have the foundational knowledge and skills to take on further studies. It is a crucial requirement, to ensure you are ready to absorb and engage with the course material effectively.

Are There Age Restrictions For Enrolling In NATED Courses?

At Skills Academy there are no age restrictions. All you would be required to have is a Matric certificate or equivalent certificate. Therefore, no matter your age if you want to further your education, our NATED courses are perfect.

How Are NATED Courses Priced?

Skills Academy, understanding the importance of financial planning, offers a variety of payment options to ensure your educational journey is smooth and manageable. The payment options ensure that there is room for students with special payment plans.

Are There Different Fee Structures For Different Courses?

Yes, and it is quite an important point to explore. Each course, with its unique set of materials, duration, and resources, might have a different fee structure. We encourage students to reach out to our course experts for up-to-date information on our fee structure.

How Much Time Is Typically Required To Complete NATED Courses?

Completing NATED courses typically involves a structured timeframe that ensures comprehensive coverage of all the necessary material. Each level of the theoretical NATED courses involves completing assignments and exams for each subject, which can take 12 months per certificate level. 

After obtaining N4, N5, and N6 certificates, students are required to complete 18 months of practical work-based training to earn a National Diploma. So, in total, it can take around 3 to 4 years to complete the full cycle of NATED courses, including the practical training.

Can Students Extend Their NATED Course Duration If Needed?

Yes, students can often extend their course duration if needed. It is all about communicating with us and making the necessary arrangements to ensure your studies can continue smoothly. We provide student support for this very reason, so feel free to contact us regarding any enquiries.

Are There Fast-Track Options Available?

For those who are in a bit of a hurry, fast-track options might be available. It is all about having a conversation with the course expert to explore what is possible and ensure you are prepared for a more intense workload.

Where Are The Best Places To Study NATED Courses?

If you are eyeing NATED courses, Skills Academy is a great choice. We have a flexible setup and supportive materials. We are all about making sure you get a quality education. Plus, we are all about giving you that personal touch to help you through your studies.

What Makes Skills Academy A Preferred Choice For NATED Courses?

Skills Academy is not just an institution; it is a place where flexibility in study meets quality education. We offer a range of courses with comprehensive support structures, ensuring that you, as a student, are never alone in your journey. Students will receive support in the following ways: 

  • Exam preparation groups
  • Discussion forums
  • Tutors
  • Feedback 

Are There Online Options Available For NATED Courses At Skills Academy?

Yes, Skills Academy offers online options, ensuring that your studies can blend seamlessly into your daily life, allowing you to manage your studies around your life, not the other way around.

How Do NATED Courses Give You Career Opportunities?

NATED Courses are crafted to provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enhancing your employability and paving the way for career advancement in your chosen sector.

Which NATED Courses Are The Most Popular At Skills Academy?

Courses such as Business Management, Financial Management, and Educare often find themselves in the spotlight due to the expansive career opportunities they unlock upon completion.

How Can Students Apply For NATED Courses At Skills Academy?

We have made it simple and student-friendly to get on board. Just a few quick steps and you will be on your way to cracking open those books with some of the best support you can find. It is like we have rolled out the red carpet just for your educational journey!

What Is The Application Process For A NATED Course Like?

Ready to start a NATED course? We have got you covered with a straightforward application process. Here is a step-by-step guide you can refer to when applying for our courses: 

Step 1: Choose Your Course

Explore the various NATED Courses available at Skills Academy. Consider factors like your career goals, interests, and the duration of the course.

Step 2: Check The Entry Requirements

Ensure you meet the basic entry requirements, such as having a matric certificate and being proficient in English. Remember that you will need to be comfortable studying through distance learning. 

Step 3: Gather Your Documents

Prepare all necessary documents, which typically include your matric certificate, Identity Document, and possibly additional documentation depending on the course.

Step 4: Complete The Application Form

You can click on “Apply Now”, this will take you to an online application form. Fill in the application form with all the required details. Attach or upload the necessary documents. Make sure you provide accurate information for a smooth application. 

Step 5: Submit And Confirm

Submit your application form and documents. Ensure you receive a confirmation of your application submission.

Step 6: Await Feedback

The Skills Academy team will review your application. You will receive feedback regarding the status of your application and any next steps.

Step 7: Enrolment

Once accepted, you will proceed to enrol in your chosen course. This might involve selecting your modules or subjects and confirming your study plan.

Step 8: Payment Arrangements

Decide on a payment plan that suits your financial situation. Complete any necessary paperwork and make the initial payment or set up a payment schedule.

Step 9: Begin Your Studies

Once enrolled and payment is sorted, you will receive access to your course materials.

Now, your educational journey at Skills Academy begins!

Are There Specific Deadlines For NATED Course Applications?

There are no specific deadlines for enrolment. Because we are a distance learning institution, we offer applications throughout the year. However, deadlines for exams are different, we will inform you of exam dates. This allows you to prepare before exams. 

How Should Students Prepare For NATED Exams?

Getting started on your NATED exams requires a thoughtful approach to studying. It is not merely about hitting the books but understanding how to study in a way that is effective and sustainable. Let us explore some key strategies and tips to help you prepare for your NATED exams effectively and efficiently.

What Are The Top Tips For Preparing For A NATED Exam?

Exam preparation is more than just reading and memorising. It is about creating a study environment and plan that enhances your learning. Here are some tips to guide you through your exam preparation journey:

  • Manage Your Time Effectively
  • Create A Study Plan
  • Develop Good Study Habits
  • Develop Good Study Habits
  • Form A Study Group

Manage Your Time Effectively

Allocate specific time slots for each subject and adhere to your schedule to cover all necessary material without last-minute cramming.

Create A Study Plan

Outline your study topics, allocate time for each, and ensure you cover all areas, including those you might find challenging.

Develop Good Study Habits

Find a study routine that works for you, whether it is short bursts of focused study or longer sessions with breaks.

Form A Study Group

Engaging with peers allows for shared knowledge, varied perspectives, and additional support during your study journey.

How Can I Overcome The Challenges Of Studying For NATED Courses?

Completing NATED courses is a great choice that comes with its fair share of ups and downs. Overcoming this will require a strategic plan, making the most of your resources, and not forgetting to take care of your mind and body. Here are some helpful tips you can consider for overcoming challenges: 

  • Seek Support
  • Use Additional Resources
  • Take Regular Breaks

Seek Support

Engaging with tutors and peers can provide you with great insights and different perspectives that can aid your understanding of complex topics. Do not hesitate to ask questions, participate in forums, and share your knowledge too.

Remember, understanding a concept thoroughly often comes from explaining it to others.

Use Additional Resources

Leveraging various study materials, such as online platforms, additional textbooks, and practice exams, can deepen your understanding and expose you to various question formats. Diversifying your study materials can also cater to different learning styles, ensuring a well-rounded preparation.

Take Regular Breaks

Incorporating breaks into your study sessions is not just beneficial but essential for maintaining a high level of concentration and avoiding burnout. Employ techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, which involves focused study sessions followed by short breaks.

How Can I Stay Motivated And Focused While Studying For NATED Courses?

Maintaining a consistent level of motivation and focus can significantly impact your study effectiveness and enjoyment during your NATED courses. There are a few things you could practice to help stay motivated throughout your educational journey: 

  • Set Clear Goals
  • Reward System
  • Remind Yourself Why

Set Clear Goals

Establishing both short-term and long-term goals for your study sessions and overall course trajectory provides a roadmap and keeps your studies purposeful and direction-oriented.

Reward System

Creating a reward system allows you to celebrate your milestones and achievements, providing positive reinforcement and boosting motivation. This could be a small treat, a leisure activity, or a short break. Use the method that works for you. 

Remind Yourself Why

Keeping the bigger picture in mind, whether it is career progression, personal development, or another goal, serves as a constant reminder and motivator throughout your study journey.

How Can I Avoid Distractions While Studying For NATED Courses?

Minimising distractions is necessary for maintaining a productive and focused study environment, ensuring that your time and effort are maximised. One of the most important ways you could avoid distractions is by creating a study space. 

Create A Dedicated Study Space

Establishing a study space that is free from distractions, comfortable, and organised sets a physical and mental boundary between your studies and other aspects of your life. Ensure all necessary materials are within reach to avoid unnecessary disruptions.

People Also Ask

National Accredited Technical Education Diploma (NATED) courses and National Certificate Vocational (NCV) courses both provide vocational education but serve different purposes and structures.

NATED courses tend to focus on providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to a specific industry and are often pursued by students who have completed their Matric. 

On the other hand, NCV courses are more vocationally oriented, providing students with practical skills and workplace experience and can be pursued right after Grade 9.

To verify the accreditation of NATED courses, one can check with regulatory bodies such as the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) in South Africa. Additionally, you can verify the accreditation status of the educational institution offering the course by visiting their official website for validation.

The NATED pass rate can fluctuate between different institutions and courses. For the most accurate and recent pass rates, it is advisable to check with the specific educational institution or refer to the Department of Higher Education and Training in South Africa. They may provide insights into the performance of students in NATED courses across various institutions.

Transferring NATED credits to a university may depend on the specific university and course. It is essential to consult with the relevant university admissions office to understand how NATED credits may be recognised or transferred. 

Some universities may accept NATED qualifications for entry into specific diploma or degree programmes, while others might have additional requirements or bridging courses.

Yes, NATED courses can be studied part-time, providing flexibility for students who may be working or have other commitments. Part-time study allows students to manage their studies around their personal and professional lives, ensuring they can gain their qualifications at a pace that suits their circumstances.

Author: Angela Mouton
Editor: Caitlin Roux
Date Published: January 2, 2024

Last Updated: 30 September 2024

SHARE ON:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: