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: 

National Certificate: Corrections Science 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
24197  National Certificate: Corrections Science 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Corrections 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
Was SAS SETA until Last Date for Achievement  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 08 - Law, Military Science and Security  Safety in Society 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Level 4  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L4  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 0160/05  2007-08-07  2009-02-18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2010-02-18   2013-02-18  

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 is replaced by: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
64389  Further Education and Training Certificate: Corrections Services  Level 4  NQF Level 04  130  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
This qualification is aimed at learners who work or intend to work within a correctional environment, and who seek recognition for essential skills needed at entry level of correctional operations. Furthermore, it has been developed to promote professionalism and work ethics in the correctional environment. As such this qualification will promote good governance and the eradication of corrupt behaviour.

It will allow a learner to obtain a nationally recognised qualification in Correctional Science. A qualifying learner will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of correctional practices which will contribute to the development of persons involved in a corrections environment. It will also assist in changing the perceptions of the lack of expertise within corrections environment which will improve image and the relationships between the correctional officials and the community.

Recipients of this qualification know about and are able to conduct the essential operations associated with custody, rehabilitation and community corrections. It lays a foundation for future career advancement in corrections.

Rationale:

The government of South Africa has repeatedly emphasised the importance and need to promote good governance and professionalism within state departments. It was with this focus in mind that the construction of this qualification involved vigorous consideration to ensure that the elements of work ethics are included in the National Certificate in Corrections Science.

This qualification reflects the entry level workplace needs of the corrections industry at entry level. The majority of the candidates who aspire for this qualification are likely to be those already working in the corrections sector. The qualification will therefore give them the opportunity to develop skills and to acquire the knowledge that is essential for successful execution of correctional duties.

It also provides the opportunity to entry level employees at entry level to earn a formal qualification in corrections science. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
It is assumed that candidates embarking on learning towards this qualification have:
  • Written and oral communication skills at NQF level 3
  • Basic Interpersonal skills
  • Mathematical and numerical skills at NQF level 3

    Recognition of prior learning:

    This qualification can be achieved wholly or in part through recognition of prior learning.

    Evidence can be presented in a variety of forms, including international or previous local qualifications, reports, testimonials mentioning functions performed, work records, portfolios, videos of practice and performance records.

    All such evidence should be judged according to the general principles of assessment described in the notes to assessors. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Credits and credit composition

    Fundamental:
  • 20 Communications credits from the list specified
  • 16 Mathematics credits from the list specified

    Core:
  • All unit standards in the core section, totalling 62 credits are compulsory

    Elective:
  • A minimum of 22 credits of the candidate`s choice from the list specified. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    On achieving this qualification a learner will be able to:

    1. Communicate with individuals and groups within the corrections services environment in a variety of ways.

    2. Conduct custodial duties in accordance with legislation and organisational policies.

    3. Demonstrate understanding of human rights and apply ethical standards in the treatment of and rehabilitation of inmates.

    4. Promote healthy living practices in the correctional services environment.
    Range: Aspects of healthy living are detailed in the associated unit standards

    5. Apply basic managerial skills within a correctional services environment.


    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    This qualification addresses the following critical cross-field outcomes. The way in which the critical cross-field outcomes are addressed is presented in detail in the unit standards outlined in annexure A, B and C.
    a) Identifying and solving problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made
    b) Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, or community
    c) Organizing and managing oneself and one`s activities responsibly and effectively
    d) Collecting, analysing, organizing and critically evaluating information
    e) Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written persuasion
    f) Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others
    g) Demonstrating an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognizing that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.

    Learning programmes directed towards this qualification will also contribute to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of the society at large, by making individuals aware of the importance of:
    i. Reflecting on and exploring a variety of strategies to learn more effectively
    ii. Participating as responsible citizens in the life of local, national and global communities
    iii. Being culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts
    iv. Exploring education and career opportunities; and developing entrepreneurial opportunities. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    1. Communication within and about the correctional services processes is clear, understandable and effective.

    2. Custodial duties are conducted in accordance with the relevant laws and correctional services policies.

    3. Inmates are treated with due consideration for human rights and organisational ethics.

    4. All aspects of healthy living are explained in a manner acceptable to the target audience.

    5. Basic managerial skills are employed to enhance efficiency in the organisation.

    Integrated Assessment:

    For award of the qualification, a candidate must achieve each of the fundamental and core unit standard as per annexure A, B as well as the elective unit standards chosen as per annexure C.

    In addition, candidates must demonstrate the ability to engage in the correctional operations selected in an integrative way, dealing with divergent and "random" demands related to these work operations, effectively. Evidence is required that the candidate is able to achieve the purpose of the qualification as a whole at the time of the award of the qualification.

    As it is a Unit Standard based Qualification, both formative and summative assessment processes are accounted for. A broad range of task orientated and theoretical assessment tools may be used.

    Assessors should assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired through formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience. 

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification and the component unit standards have been compared with similar qualifications and training courses from the following countries:
  • Australia
  • New Zealand
  • United States of America
  • Canada

    In addition, the abilities described in the unit standards have also been compared with the findings of Australia and New Zealand.

    In general this qualification and its component unit standards compare well with their international counterparts. The only major differences are in formatting and scope of coverage or focus. The qualifications found to be the most comparable to this one are:
  • Certificate in Correctional Practice (Australia)
  • National Certificate in Offender Management (New Zealand) 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification acts as a springboard from which people may start and progress to other qualifications in Corrections Science. It provides the opportunity for horizontal articulation with qualifications in generic management. It will also articulate vertically with qualifications in corrections at NQF level 5 and higher where the learner will be able to follow specialist areas in the sector. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    Providers offering learning towards achievement of the core unit standards that make up this qualification must be accredited through the relevant ETQA.

    Internal moderation of assessment must take place at the point of assessment with external moderation provided by the relevant ETQA according to the moderation guidelines and the agreed ETQA procedures.

    Assessors registered with the relevant ETQA must carry out the assessment of candidates for the core unit standards that make up this qualification. The following criteria are specified for assessors concerning the core aspects of the qualification:
  • Assessors need experience in interpersonal skills, subject matter and assessment.
  • Assessors need to be competent in the planning and conducting of assessment of learning outcomes (NQF level 4) and in the design and development of assessments as described in the unit standards (see annexure A, B and C).
  • Subject matter experience must be well developed within the field of correctional operations such as custody, rehabilitation and community corrections.
  • The assessor must have a qualification relevant to corrections science with a minimum of 12 months correctional services experience or the subject matter experience of the assessor can be established by recognition of prior learning. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Notes for assessors:

    Assessors should keep the following general principles in mind when designing and conducting assessments:
  • Focus the initial assessment activities on gathering evidence in terms of the main outcomes expressed in the titles of the unit standards to ensure assessment is integrated rather than fragmented. The aim is to declare the person competent in terms of the qualification purpose. Where assessment at across titles or at title level is unmanageable, then focus assessment around each specific outcome, or groups of specific outcomes. Take special note of the need for integrated assessment.
  • Make sure evidence is gathered across the entire range, wherever it applies.
  • Assessment activities should be as close to the real performance as possible, and where simulations or role-plays are used, there should be supporting evidence to show the candidate is able to perform in the real situation.
  • All assessments should be conducted in line with the following well documented principles of assessment as defined below:

    Principles of assessment:
  • Appropriate: The method of assessment is suited to the performance being assessed.
  • Fair: The method of assessment does not present any barriers to achievements, which are not related to the evidence. In particular, the method of assessment is sensitive to language diversity.
  • Manageable: The methods used make for easily arranged, cost-effective assessments that do not unduly interfere with learning.
  • Integrated into work or learning: Evidence collection is integrated into the work or learning process where this is appropriate and feasible.
  • Valid: The assessment focuses on the requirements laid down in the Standard; i.e. the assessment is fit for purpose.
  • Direct: The activities in the assessment mirror the conditions of actual performance as closely as possible
  • Authentic: The assessor is satisfied that the work being assessed is attributable to the person being assessed.
  • Sufficient: The evidence collected establishes that all criteria have been met and that performance to the required Standard can be repeated consistently.
  • Systematic: Planning and recording is sufficiently rigorous to ensure that assessment is fair.
  • Open: Learners can contribute to the planning and accumulation of evidence. Assessment candidates understand the assessment process and the criteria that apply.
  • Consistent: The same assessor would make the same judgement again in similar circumstances. The judgement made is similar to the judgement that would be made by other assessors. 
    		•

    NOTES 
    This qualification has been replaced by qualification 64389, which is "Further Education and Training Certificate: Corrections Services", Level 4, 130 credits. 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  10022  Comply with organisational ethics  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Core  114018  Conduct external custodial duties  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Core  14643  Conduct internal custodial duties  Level 4  NQF Level 04  8 
    Core  114022  Demonstrate a basic understanding of offender rehabilitation and development  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Core  14646  Demonstrate an understanding of the human rights contained in the bill of rights  Level 4  NQF Level 04  12 
    Core  14630  Manage workplace equipment in a prison environment  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Core  14619  Promote personal care and environmental hygiene in corrections  Level 4  NQF Level 04  8 
    Core  14615  Provide elementary health care in corrections  Level 4  NQF Level 04  8 
    Core  14597  Utilise security equipment in corrections  Level 4  NQF Level 04  12 
    Fundamental  9015  Apply knowledge of statistics and probability to critically interrogate and effectively communicate findings on life related problems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Fundamental  8974  Engage in sustained oral communication and evaluate spoken texts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Fundamental  8975  Read analyse and respond to a variety of texts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Fundamental  9016  Represent analyse and calculate shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional space in different contexts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Fundamental  8979  Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Fundamental  7468  Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal, business, national and international issues  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Fundamental  8976  Write for a wide range of contexts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Elective  13915  Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of HIV/AIDS in a workplace, and its effects on a business sub-sector, own organisation and a specific workplace  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  13918  Manage time and the work process in a business environment  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  14639  Demonstrate an understanding of the scope and operations within the field of community corrections  Level 4  NQF Level 04  12 
    Elective  13945  Describe and apply the management of stock and fixed assets in a business unit  Level 4  NQF Level 04  2 
    Elective  10388  Interpret basic financial statements  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Elective  13947  Motivate a team  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Elective  114012  Provide a caring environment for youth in conflict with the law  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 


    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some of their learning programmes are moved to being recorded against the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replacement.
     
    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. Correctional Services Dept 


    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.