ABOUT THIS PROGRAMME

The National Certificate (Vocational) offers students a vocational alternative to an academic Grade 10-12 by offering specialised training on NQF Levels 2-4.

If you would like to qualify with a specialised NQF Level 4 certificate that will enable you to find relevant employment once qualified, the National Certificate (Vocational) is for you.

This qualification provides the student with the opportunity to pursue a career in the Tourism Industry. The programme covers aspects of tourism such as sustainable tourism on a local, regional and international-level-and-practicing professional tourism management and operation skills in a working environment. This programme integrates academic knowledge and theory with practical skills and values.

Minimum Admission requirements

Grade 9 Certificate or NQF Level 1 equivalent.

CAREER opportunities

• Tourist Receptionist
• Tourist Reservations
• Tour Operator
• Tour Planning
• Information Assistant
• Tourism Development

Duration

The NC(V) is a three-year, full-time qualification with a certificate at NQF Level 4

Course content

WHAT DO THESE SUBJECTS ENTAIL?

English First Additional Language:

English language skills and content will be refined: Listening and Speaking, Reading and Viewing, Writing and Presenting, Language and Communication in Practice.

Life Skills & Computer Skills:

Life Skills is the study of the self in relation to others and to society. This subject addresses knowledge, values, attitudes and skills about the self, the environment, responsible citizenship, a healthy and productive life, social engagement, recreation and physical activity, and career choices. Computer skills are abilities and knowledge which allow you to use computers and related technology such as word processing software, access the Internet, manage files, or create presentations.

Mathematical Literacy:

Mathematical Literacy provides students with an awareness of and understanding of the role that mathematics plays in the modern world. Mathematical Literacy is a subject driven by life-related applications of mathematics.

Science of Tourism:

Science of Tourism informs students of the workings and compilation of the tourism industry. It identifies the necessary sources of tourist information, products and services, and sets out the necessary components that enable the tourism industry to function effectively. The impact of tourism on the economy is explained and roleplayers are identified. Possible career paths in the industry are identified and possible development opportunities are investigated.

Client Services and Human Relations:

Client Services and Human Relations teaches students to conduct themselves in a manner that is professional and proper to the workplace. It focuses on the importance of self-development and the development of others to the benefit of the company. The subject explains the impact this development has on client service and the importance of client satisfaction to any company in terms of revenue generation.

Sustainable Tourism in South Africa:

In this subject the student develops a wider tourism horizon to include basic knowledge about popular tourism destinations abroad and the practical aspects of international travel. On the local front sustainability and heritage development are studied with the emphasis on cultural heritage awareness, cultural heritage management and on-going evaluation methods to ensure the creation of sustainable events and a healthy tourism industry.

Tourism Operations:

Tourism Operations deals with a variety of aspects vital for the effective functioning of a frontline tourism position (Level 2). In a modern tourism office environment, the student must know how to use the office equipment, maintain an information system and, especially when providing customer information and processing reservations, how to hold a professional telephone conversation. At Level 3, the subject introduces the student to the principles of entrepreneurship and marketing, followed by the development of a business plan for establishing a small tourism business. This should empower the student to seek self-employment in the present economic climate in South Africa. At Level 4, the student works with itineraries, tour packages, costing and the planning and conducting of a tour, all which will enable him or her to assist inbound tourists with practical advice, local travel plans and relevant bookings. At this level, the student starts dealing with various aspects of international travel, which should include knowledge about foreign currencies, basic forex conversions and the legal process of taking money out of the country.