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Management Assistant
Human Resource Management
Farm Management
Financial Management
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Electrical Engineering
Public Management (N4–N6) Career Pathway
Entry Requirements
- National Senior Certificate (NSC)/Grade 12
- NCV Level 4 in a related field
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for mature students
Subjects in Public Management N4
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Public Administration N4 | Basic functions of government and public institutions; service delivery |
| Municipal Administration N4 | Functions of municipalities, local governance, service provision |
| Management Communication N4 | Effective workplace communication (written/oral) in public sector contexts |
| Computer Practice N4 | Basic computer literacy, MS Office tools, public service computing basics |
Subjects in Public Management N5
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Public Administration N5 | Public policy, departmental organization, public service ethics |
| Municipal Administration N5 | Local government frameworks, community services, municipal finance |
| Public Finance N5 | Government budgeting, financial planning, procurement processes |
| Computer Practice N5 | Intermediate computer skills, MS Excel, Word, PowerPoint |
Subjects in Public Management N6
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Public Administration N6 | Advanced public policy, government structures, service delivery |
| Municipal Administration N6 | Urban governance, IDPs, municipal budgeting |
| Public Finance N6 | Government accounting, auditing, procurement law |
| Computer Practice N6 | Advanced computing, data processing, reporting |
Career Opportunities After N6
- Public Administrator
- Municipal Officer
- Policy Assistant
- Finance/Admin Officer
- Procurement Clerk
- Project Coordinator
How to Get the National N Diploma
- Complete N4, N5, and N6 theory (classroom)
- Undergo 18 months of internship in public administration
- Submit your practical training logbook
- Apply for the National N Diploma
Further Education & Vertical Articulation
- Advanced Diploma or Bachelor's in:
- Public Management
- Municipal Governance
- Development Studies
- Apply for public internships or bursaries
- Professional development through SETAs or QCTO
Skills & Knowledge Gained
- Public policy and administration
- Governance and accountability
- Public financial management
- Project management
- Leadership and management
Human Resource Management (N4–N6) Career Pathway
N4 – Entry Requirements
- Grade 12 / National Senior Certificate
- NCV Level 4 in Business or Office Administration
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for mature students
Subjects in Human Resource Management N4
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Personnel Management N4 | Introduction to HR roles, recruitment, selection, induction |
| Management Communication N4 | Workplace communication, report writing, and interpersonal communication |
| Entrepreneurship & Business Management N4 | Basics of starting and managing a business |
| Computer Practice N4 | Basic digital skills, MS Office, typing, and communication software |
N5 – Subjects
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Personnel Management N5 | HR policies, training & development, performance appraisal |
| Personnel Training N5 | Designing training programs, needs analysis, evaluation |
| Entrepreneurship & Business Management N5 | Strategic planning, marketing, financing, operations |
| Labour Relations N5 | Employment law, dispute resolution, unions, and industrial action |
N6 – Subjects
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Personnel Management N6 | HR strategy, career planning, change management |
| Personnel Training N6 | HRD planning, budgeting for training, monitoring learning outcomes |
| Labour Relations N6 | CCMA processes, grievance handling, collective bargaining |
| Entrepreneurship & Business Management N6 | Managing growth, franchising, business planning |
Qualification Pathway
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| N4 – N6 Theory | ±18 months (6 months per level) |
| Workplace Experience | 18 months (HR-related job) |
| National N Diploma | Awarded after theory + internship |
Career Opportunities
- Human Resource Assistant/Officer
- Labour Relations Assistant
- Training and Development Facilitator
- Payroll/Personnel Clerk
- HR Administrator in Public or Private Sector
- Start a business as an HR Consultant
Further Study Opportunities
- Advanced Diploma or BTech in Human Resource Management
- Degree in Labour Relations, Industrial Psychology, or Organisational Development
- Short Courses in:
- Employment Equity
- Skills Development Facilitation
- Coaching and Performance Management
Skills and Knowledge Gained
- Recruitment and selection
- Employee relations and conflict management
- Performance management and development
- Training and development
- HR policies and procedures
Support Services at Bophelo Institute
- Workplace Logbook Templates
- Career Guidance & CV Writing Support
- HR Internship and Job Placement Assistance
- Interview Preparation & Labour Law Workshops
Financial Management (N4–N6) Career Pathway
NATED refers to the National Accredited Technical Education Diploma programs in South Africa, designed to provide practical skills in specific fields like financial management.
Entry Requirements
Grade 12 with Accounting and Maths literacy or Pure Maths.
Program Structure: 18 months academic + 18 months work-integrated learning.
N4 Financial Management
Entry Requirements:
- Grade 12 (NSC) or equivalent qualification
- Proficiency in Mathematics and English recommended
- Mature students (23+) with work experience may apply under RPL
Subjects
| Subject Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Financial Accounting N4 | Introductory accounting concepts, double-entry bookkeeping, balance sheets, ledgers. |
| Computerised Financial Systems N4 | Practical training in accounting software like Pastel or Sage. |
| Management Communication N4 | Business writing, professional communication, meetings, and reporting skills. |
| Entrepreneurship & Business Management N4 | Fundamentals of starting, managing, and growing a business. |
N5 Financial Management
Entry Requirements:
- Successful completion of Financial Management N4
- OR equivalent qualification in Financial or Business Management
- RPL may be considered for experienced applicants
Subjects
| Subject Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Financial Accounting N5 | Intermediate accounting: final accounts, cash flows, analysis of financial statements. |
| Computerised Financial Systems N5 | Advanced usage of accounting packages like Sage, Pastel. |
| Cost and Management Accounting N5 | Basics of costing, budgeting, cost control, break-even analysis. |
| Entrepreneurship & Business Management N5 | Strategic planning, business functions, and decision-making for entrepreneurs. |
N6 Financial Management
Entry Requirements:
- Successful completion of Financial Management N5
- OR an equivalent Financial/Accounting qualification at N5 level
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for experienced candidates
Subjects
| Subject Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Financial Accounting N6 | Advanced accounting: company accounts, consolidated financials, ratio analysis. |
| Cost and Management Accounting N6 | In-depth study of cost centers, budgeting, overhead analysis, marginal costing. |
| Computerised Financial Systems N6 | Proficient use of financial software for full accounting cycles and reporting. |
| Income Tax N6 | South African tax law, tax calculations for individuals and businesses, VAT. |
After Completing N6
- Learners must complete 18 months of relevant practical experience (internship or workplace-based training)
- Submit logbook/workplace evidence to DHET/QCTO
- Qualify for the National Diploma: Financial Management
Career Opportunities
- Financial Manager
- Cost Accountant
- Payroll Officer
- Tax Practitioner
- Accounting Technician
- Finance Administrator
Further Education and Training
- National Diploma in Financial Management or related field
- Bachelor's Degree in Financial Management, Accounting, or related field
Articulation
- Vertical: BCom in Accounting/Finance
- Horizontal: Business Administration
Farm Management (N4–N6) Career Pathway
The NATED program in Farm Management equips students with essential business management skills for success in agriculture.
Entry Requirements
- National Senior Certificate (Grade 12)
- NCV Level 4 in Agriculture or Business-related field
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for mature candidates
Program Structure
- Theoretical Component: 18 months (N4, N5, N6; 6 months each)
- Practical Component: 18 months in-service training
Subjects in Farm Management N4
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Farm Management N4 | Introduction to farm business planning, organization, and production systems |
| Animal Production N4 | Livestock production systems, animal health, and feeding strategies |
| Plant Production N4 | Soil management, crop cycles, fertilization, pest control |
| Agricultural Economics N4 | Basics of agricultural markets, pricing, and financial management |
Subjects in Farm Management N5
Entry Requirements: Completion of N4 Certificate in Farming Management
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Farm Management N5 | Advanced planning, business structures, cost management |
| Animal Production N5 | Breeding, disease control, genetics |
| Plant Production N5 | Advanced crop production, irrigation, sustainable techniques |
| Agricultural Economics N5 | Credit management, insurance, market dynamics, risk analysis |
Subjects in Farm Management N6
Entry Requirements: Completion of N5 Certificate in Farming Management
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Farm Management N6 | Strategic planning, agribusiness, records, decision-making |
| Animal Production N6 | Commercial animal production, product quality control, productivity |
| Plant Production N6 | Agronomy, crop budgeting, sustainable technologies |
| Agricultural Economics N6 | Export marketing, policy, cooperative systems |
Qualification Pathway
- 18 months theory (6 months per level: N4, N5, N6)
- 18 months internship / workplace training
- Apply for National N Diploma after theory and practical completion
Career Opportunities
- Farm Manager
- Agricultural Extension Officer
- Livestock or Crop Production Supervisor
- Agribusiness Entrepreneur
- Co-operative Development Advisor
- Agricultural Sales/Marketing Agent
Further Study & Articulation
- Advanced Diplomas or Degrees in Agricultural Management, Economics, Agribusiness, or Agricultural Extension
- Short courses in Agri-Processing, Organic Farming, Agritech
- QCTO Artisan qualifications (e.g., Animal Production Technician)
Support Services from Bophelo Institute
- Logbook and Internship Guidance
- Practical Simulation Support
- CV & Interview Skills for Agricultural Sector
- Access to AgriBEE and Government Farming Initiatives
Electrical Engineering (N4–N6) Career Pathway
Completing the NATED program in Electrical Engineering N4 to N6 opens various career opportunities in the electrical field.
Entry Requirements
- Grade 12 with Maths & Physical Science or N3 equivalent
Program Structure
- N4, N5, and N6 certificate levels
- 18 months theoretical training (6 months per level)
- 18 months practical workplace experience
Subjects in Electrical Engineering N4
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Electrotechnics N4 | Basic electrical principles, circuit theory, and electrical machinery concepts |
| Industrial Electronics N4 | Components such as transistors, diodes, amplifiers, and digital circuits |
| Mathematics N4 | Engineering mathematics including algebra, trigonometry, and calculus basics |
| Engineering Science N4 | Mechanics, thermodynamics, fluids, and electricity basics |
Subjects in Electrical Engineering N5
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Electrotechnics N5 | Advanced AC and DC circuits, electrical power systems, and motors |
| Industrial Electronics N5 | Power electronics, transducers, sensors, and feedback systems |
| Mathematics N5 | Advanced engineering math including complex numbers, calculus, and matrices |
| Power Machines N5 | Electrical machines: transformers, motors, alternators, generators |
Subjects in Electrical Engineering N6
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Electrotechnics N6 | Advanced circuits, three-phase systems, electrical installations, regulations |
| Industrial Electronics N6 | Solid-state electronics, instrumentation systems, and automation |
| Mathematics N6 | Engineering math with integration, differential equations, applications |
| Power Machines N6 | Advanced electrical machinery, control, power transmission systems |
After Completing N6
- Apply for National N Diploma after 18 months practical workplace training
- Work as Electrical Technician, Engineering Assistant, Maintenance Technician, Plant Operator, or Trainee Engineer
- Qualify to write Trade Tests or pursue Professional Registration through ECSA
Diploma Qualification Path
| Step | Duration |
|---|---|
| N4 + N5 + N6 | ±18 months total |
| Practical Experience | 18 months (in-service training) |
| Apply for Diploma | Issued by DHET |
Vertical Articulation & Further Study
- Advanced Diploma or Degree programs at Universities of Technology (with RPL or admission tests)
- Further studies in Electrical Engineering (BEng Tech), Renewable Energy Systems, Automation, and Instrumentation
- Entrepreneurship or artisan trades
Additional Benefits & Services
- Practical Logbook Support
- Workplace Placement Guidance
- Trade Test Readiness Training
- Access to Toolkits, Labs, and Online Resources
Career Options
- Electrical Technician
- Junior Electrical Engineer
- Field Service Technician
- Instrumentation and Control Technician
- Building Automation Technician
- Entrepreneurship in electrical contracting or consulting
Further Education and Training
- National Diploma in Electrical Engineering
- Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering
- Short Courses & Certifications in renewable energy, industrial automation, building automation
- Universities of Technology, Artisan development, QCTO occupational qualifications
Industries and Workplaces
- Electrical engineering and construction
- Industrial engineering
- Process control
- Digital electronic engineering
- Industrial electronics engineering
- Power stations (e.g., ESKOM)
- Telecommunication companies (e.g., MTN, Vodacom, Cell C, TELKOM)
Management Assistant (N4–N6) Career Pathway
Qualification: National N Diploma in Management Assistant
Path: N4 → N5 → N6 + 18-month internship
Duration: ±3 years total (18 months theory + 18 months practical)
Entry Requirements (N4)
- National Senior Certificate (Matric), or
- NCV Level 4 Certificate in a related field, or
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Subjects for N4 Management Assistant
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Office Practice N4 | Introduction to office roles, admin procedures, mail handling, time management |
| Communication N4 | Verbal and written business communication, customer interaction, professionalism |
| Information Processing N4 | Keyboarding, document formatting, touch typing, business letters/memos |
| Entrepreneurship & Business Management N4 | Basics of starting, managing, and marketing a small business |
Subjects for N5 Management Assistant
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Office Practice N5 | Managing meetings, diary systems, travel arrangements, confidentiality & protocol |
| Communication N5 | Advanced writing (reports, notices, memos), listening skills, conflict resolution |
| Information Processing N5 | Intermediate document formatting: tables, mail merges, reports, agendas |
| Public Administration N5 | Introduction to civil service, government structures, public policy |
Subjects for N6 Management Assistant
| Subject | Description |
|---|---|
| Office Practice N6 | Advanced office management: supervision, delegation, planning & resource use |
| Communication N6 | High-level business writing, minute-taking, internal/external communication |
| Information Processing N6 | Complex document formatting, reports, forms, financial tables, speed typing |
| Public Relations N6 | Branding, reputation management, event coordination, stakeholder communication |
After Completing N6
- Complete 18 months relevant workplace training with logbook signed by supervisor
- Awarded National N Diploma in Management Assistant by DHET
- Equivalent to NQF Level 6
Career Opportunities After N6 + Diploma
| Position | Workplace |
|---|---|
| Executive Secretary | Corporate, Government, NGO |
| Office Manager | Department, Clinic, or School Office |
| Personal Assistant (PA) | Executives, Directors |
| Administrative Supervisor | Front office, Back office, Shared services |
| Public Relations Assistant | Marketing departments, PR firms |
| Data or Information Officer | Records management, Digital offices |
Sectors That Employ Management Assistants
- Government Departments (Local, Provincial, National)
- Municipalities and Public Entities
- Corporate Companies (All Industries)
- NGOs and Non-Profits
- Schools, Colleges, and Universities
- Legal, Finance, and Health Sectors
- Consulting and Private Practices
Vertical Career Progression
| With Experience & Further Study | Possible Roles |
|---|---|
| National N Diploma + Work Experience | Office Manager / Senior Admin Officer |
| Bachelor’s Degree (e.g., Public Admin) | Admin Supervisor / Policy Admin |
| Short Courses (e.g., HR, Project Management) | HR Admin / Project Assistant |
| Advanced Diploma in Management | Assistant Manager / Team Coordinator |
Further Study Options
- Diploma or Degree in Office Management, Public Administration, HR Management, Business Administration
- QCTO/SETA-accredited qualifications in Records Management, Project Coordination, Skills Development Facilitation, Supply Chain Admin
Support from Bophelo Institute
- Workplace logbook & internship readiness support
- Internship placement assistance
- Career guidance workshops
- Interview preparation and soft skills training
- Professional ethics & public relations workshops