Facilitation

Facilitation in regard to skills development providers (SDPs) is the process of enabling and supporting learning and development activities for learners enrolled in occupational qualifications or part-qualifications registered on the Occupational Qualifications Sub-Framework (OQSF). Occupational qualifications are qualifications that prepare learners for specific occupations or trades. Facilitation in regard to SDPs is an integral and critical component of the quality assurance system of the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), which is responsible for developing, managing and overseeing occupational qualifications.

Facilitation in regard to SDPs involves various functions, such as:

Planning, preparing and delivering learning programmes that are aligned with the curriculum and assessment specifications of the occupational qualification or part-qualification
Using appropriate methods, techniques and tools to facilitate learning and development in a specific occupational context
Creating a conducive and inclusive learning environment that caters for the diverse needs and preferences of learners
Monitoring, supporting and motivating learners throughout their learning journey
Evaluating the effectiveness of the learning programme and the facilitation process
Reviewing and improving their own facilitation practices and participating in professional development activities

Requirements for Facilitators

Facilitators in regard to SDPs need to have:

A relevant qualification or certification in facilitation or a related field
Knowledge of facilitation principles, methods and tools
Knowledge of the occupational qualification or part-qualification that they are facilitating
Experience in facilitating learning and development in a specific occupational context
Skills in communication, problem-solving, research, planning, administration, etc.

How to Become a Facilitator

To become a facilitator in regard to SDPs, applicants must follow these steps:

Determine their primary focus, which is the occupational qualification or part-qualification that they want to facilitate
Download and complete the relevant application forms and annexures from the QCTO website or obtain them from the QCTO office
Submit the online application form and attach the required supporting documents to the QCTO
Undergo a compliance check by the QCTO and receive a notification of compliance or non-compliance
Respond to the notification if necessary and address any areas of non-compliance
Undergo a verification visit by the QCTO or its delegated quality assurance partner (DQAP) to verify the evidence submitted and assess the readiness of the applicant
Receive a recommendation report from the QCTO or its DQAP on whether to register or deny registration as a facilitator
Receive a registration letter from the QCTO if registration is granted or an appeal letter if registration is denied
Sign a registration agreement with the QCTO if registration is granted

Registration Details

Registration of facilitators in regard to SDPs is valid for a period of five years from the date on which the QCTO granted registration or until the facilitator is de-registered by the QCTO. The registration may be withdrawn by the QCTO if the facilitator fails to perform their responsibilities as stipulated in the QCTO Registration Policy, or contravenes the provisions stipulated in the registration letter or agreement, or acts in a way that is unlawful or unbecoming of a facilitator.

Facilitation in regard to SDPs is therefore a process of enabling and supporting learning and development activities for learners enrolled in occupational qualifications or part-qualifications. Facilitation in regard to SDPs also ensures that learners acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies that prepare them for external integrated summative assessment (EISA) and certification by the QCTO.