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RPL FAQ
RPL FAQ
1. Where can I find more information about these new qualifications for estate agents?
You can go to the following websites for more information:
• The new qualification for agents is registered on the NQF by SAQA: www.saqa.org.za
• Real estate qualifications and accredited training or RPL assessment centres fall
Service Seta: www.serviceseta.org
• You will also find information on EAAB: www.eaab.org.za
• Institute for estate agents, training: www.ieasanorth.co.za
• Prior Learning Centre to RPL: www.rpl.co.za
The regulations in particular say it all (download it from the EAAB or you can request it via email from us help@rpl.co.za ).
2. What is the effective date?
The ‘effective date’ is 15 July 2008. This date is effectively to be the ‘cut off date’ for the board exam and agents registered with the EAAB before this date must attempt to earn the qualification through RPL and those registered after this date must serve a 12 month candidature-ship and earn the same qualification through formal training and assessment with an accredited training provider (accredited by the Services SETA for this qualification specifically – and they must be able to prove this accreditation to you).
3. Is RPL compulsory? Who must do it?
Yes RPL is compulsory. All existing agents must attempt RPL to earn the FETC qualification in Real Estate by 2011 as gazetted in the regulations. The RPL process will identify gaps in knowledge and these can be bridged through further formal training and assessment. These gaps must be bridged by the end of 2013. RPL can only be offered by an accredited RPL centre (accredited by the Services SETA).
4. Due to the fact that the new syllabus has not been approved of yet – is there a chance that the RPL will change and then what if I have completed it, will I have to do it all over again?
The new syllabus and qualification FET Certificate Real Estate was registered on an NQF level 4, ID no 59097. It has been approved and stands until Dec 2010, It is, therefore, safe to start with the RPL process because it will not change for at least another three years..
Visit the following website to view the full qualification: www.saqa.org.za (South Africa Qualifications Authority).
The service provider that you will use to do RPL had to go through lengthy processes in order to offer RPL, their material had to be assessed and accredited by the relevant SETA. They have to have a registration number in order to offer RPL in Real Estate. Make sure that you make use of a proper Assessment Centre so as not to fall prey to theft and fraud.
5. I’ve been an agent for 4 years, do I have to write the new EAAB exam?
All registered agents that have been in the industry for 5 years or longer as of the effective date (see question 2) are exempt from the new exam (called the Professional Designation Examination -PDE). However, these agents are not exempt from completing the FET Certificate in Real Estate. All agents who have been in the Industry for less than 5 years (as at effective date) will have to do the PDE exam after they have completed the FET Certificate Real Estate.
Only once you have completed both the qualification (compulsory for all) and the PDE (either by writing it or being exempt) will you be able to get your Fidelity Fund Certificate post 2011.
6. With regards to this new qualification, what is the next step as a principal?
Firstly, make sure that all your agents know what they have to do (get the qualification) and by when (2011). Make sure they are informed and have access to information and an accredited provider. All existing agents must have completed the RPL process for the Further Education & Training Certificate (FETC) in Real Estate by December 2011.
7. What happens if I am an agent now and I want to start my own agency – how do I become a principal?
Assuming you are an agent now and will stay an agent until you become a principal, you will complete the RPL for non-principal agent (remember it is not necessary if you have held an FFC for longer than 5 years) Then you will complete the principal NQF 5 through RPL and/or training and write the principal PDE. There is no need to do a 12 month you are already an agent with an FFC so that requirement is waived.
8. If an agent is new in the Industry and has just written and passed the “old Board Exam” must he still do the new qualification?
The EAAB exam is simply a part of the new FETC qualification. All existing agents in SA will have to get the new qualification through the RPL process, whether you have been an agent for 6 months, 6 years, or 16 years. An agent, who has been in the Industry will probably find it easier to gather evidence though, whereas the new agent might have to work harder to gather his/her evidence.
9. I have completed the ‘old’ FET Certificate recently – do I still have to do the whole RPL process for the ‘new’ FETC Certificate?
Qualifications are updated constantly and the ‘old’ FETC qualification (SAQA ID number 24454) has expired and been replaced by the ‘new’ updated FETC certificate (SAQA ID 59097). If you have completed the ‘old’ FET Certificate Real Estate you will be exempt for the entire qualification providing that you can issue proof of completion of the qualification. The new regulations specifically mention the ‘new’ FETC in Real Estate.
10. Why do the costs seem so high – especially in these difficult times?
Formal education comes at a price. At the end of the RPL process you will be awarded a nationally registered qualification that has been benchmarked internationally. Any qualification at a College or University will cost you tens of thousands of rands. The RPL fee covers the entire RPL process and all the assessment materials and SETA administration. Most providers will charge fees in line with the agreed ‘rack rate’ (set by the Services SETA).
11. There is someone in my area who claims to offer some RPL at a lower fee. Why should I pay the higher fee? Is this just a money making scheme?
No, it is not a money making scheme. A great deal of work goes into designing RPL instruments, training and registering assessors, moderators and verifiers all RPL assessment centres must employ and they must be in place in order to be accredited by the Services SETA. There will always be fly by night providers – so be very careful not to be caught due to a lack of knowledge. It is up to you to ensure that the RPL provider you use is registered with the relevant SETA (in the case of Real Estate it is Service SETA). If they are accredited they can do the RPL assessments, the moderation, and upload your results to the SETA and issue you with your certificate. Take care to check if they are fully accredited (check their accreditation certificate or letter). If they are not, the RPL may cost less but you will not get any credits.
12. If we don’t think the ‘new’ FET Certificate Real Estate NQF level 4 covers everything that an agent needs to know can we get it added?
No, the NQF 4 qualification is now final and has been registered by SAQA (28 November 2007). But all qualifications are reviewed every three years – and the date for review is December 2010. So, keep your comments and address them to the Services SETA to be considered in that review.
13. I’ve been selling houses for 18 years, do I really need the new FET Certificate?
Yes, all registered agents in SA have to have the new qualification. And you have to start your journey towards achieving the qualification through RPL. Areas that you are not able to show competence in will then be addressed after the RPL through formal assessment. (Note that many agents will be able to show full competence during the RPL process and will not have to attend any additional training.)
14. I’ve been an agent for 7 years, can I offer training now?
In order to train in the SETA/ SAQA environment you must be a subject matter expert and an educationalist (at least be a registered facilitator and assessor). You must then work for an accredited provider, as only accredited providers can award nationally registered credits and qualifications. Many people see education as an easy way to make money but it really isn’t. The barriers to entry are high and competition is tough.
15. How long will it take before I will receive my FET Certificate
It depends on you. Where you are paying for the RPL you can elect to enrol to do the RPL step by step (module by module) or you can enrol for the full qualification in one go. Where you are paying for yourself you can ask for extensions and delay your submissions. However, if you are awarded a bursary you will need to meet set deadlines and submissions. Some people can complete the full qualification in a few months (the record so far is 6 weeks) while others may take 3 years! It really is up to you.
The RPL process is designed to match each candidate according to his own pace and financial position.
16. How will I know if the course I am doing is accredited?
Ask the RPL centre for their SETA decision number, and ask to see either the letter or certificate that specifically states they are registered by the SETA for the FETC Real Estate NQF 4 (ID 59097). It is crucial that you only make use of an accredited assessment centre or training provider. If you use a provider that is not accredited (for this specific qualification) you will not earn your credits and all the work you will do will be for nothing.
17. For how long will my FET certificate be valid?
It is a qualification that you earn. It will be valid forever. However, you will have to maintain your industry knowledge through Continuing Professional Development (CPD) with the EAAB and Services SETA. Details of this will be available from the EAAB in due course.
18. After receiving my FET certificate, will I still need to do other training?
On completion of the FET certificate, you will keep your industry knowledge up to date through Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Other training that you might want to do will still be up to you – but it may not necessarily ‘count’ towards a formal qualification.
19. How will an assessor be able to assess my 25 years experience? (I started selling even before they were born!)
All registered real estate assessors have to be subject matter experts. They can only get this status as a constituent assessor and registered assessor if they can prove their own competency levels. The FETC Real Estate prescribes the level of qualifications and experience that an assessor must have. The assessor assesses against the unit standards – which are prescribed and registered by SAQA, so the element of subjectivity is reduced considerably.
20. Can I trust an assessment?
Assessors will lose their status to assess if they don’t comply with the code of conduct of the Services SETA. They must uphold the level, standards, assessment principles and act with integrity in all assessment situations.
21. I am a qualified agent and received some information regarding the new training available. What is the next step for me if I would like to qualify myself as a Principal? Can I just complete the specific course and if so when is the next opportunity?
If you want to be a Principal BEFORE the effective date (see question 2) then you will register with the EAAB in the usual way with the usual supporting documents. You will then embark upon the RPL process for principals (who need to do RPL NQF 5 in Real Estate – this qualification will be registered shortly and then RPL will commence). If you want to register as a principal AFTER the effective date the situation is unclear and we are waiting to hear from the Board how they will deal with prospective principals.
22. The FET certificate for estate agents is a NQF level 4. Principals must have a qualification of NQF level 5. Must they be certified on SAQA QUAL ID 59097 which is on level 4 as well as further training? Which additional courses must they do, or will there be a specific SAQA QUAL ID on level 5?
The FET Certificate Level 4 is not compulsory for principals. They can wait for the NQF 5 Real Estate (which will be registered by SAQA shortly). Once the qualification is registered, principals will be able to start their own RPL process to achieve it. However – a number of principals who have attended the FET Certificate Real Estate level 4 RPL workshop have reported that they have found the process personally beneficial. But it is not compulsory.
23. Will I be able to pass the new qualification?
We don’t use the terms ‘pass’ and ‘fail’ any more ‘- nowadays we say people are either competent’ or ‘not yet competent’.
Anyone can be found competent for the new FETC Real Estate qualification as long as they put in sufficient effort and time. If you are found “not yet competent” then you will have a chance to remediate (what we used to call ‘writing a supplementary’) and gather more evidence. There is a separate charge for this remediation so it is better to try and get it right the first time. Alternatively you may elect to attend bridging training and be assessed rather than remediate (there may be a cost for this bridging training).
24. Is this really important?
Apart from the fact that it is really important for the Industry to finally have a proper minimum education level so that it can become more professional, it is now law that agents get the qualification. So, agents don’t have a choice whether they want to get this new qualification or not. If you want to stay in the industry you must get the qualification.
25. Can I arrange for down payment and terms?
You will have to arrange with your company or a bank to assist you with funding if need be. One cannot enrol at university and pay the fees off in self-determined instalments. If you do not have access to a bursary through either your company or your provider then you will have to borrow money to fund the RPL process. Very few providers (if any) have registered under the National Credit Act to advance credit and take instalments.
26. Which qualifications will count for your PoE (Portfolio of Evidence)?
Prior Learning Centre has an Exemption Matrix approved by the EAAB. During the first two days of RPL preparation, we work through this exemption matrix. It is during this session that you get to know about the credits and exemptions that you already have so that you don’t waste time completing assignments or submitting evidence for credits that you already have.
Common exemptions include 40 credits for the two languages if you have Matric + 16 credits if your Matric includes Maths. Then if you have written the EAAB board exam you have an additional 18 credits. The whole FETC Real Estate is made up of 150 credits (minimum you must earn), so having exemptions for 40 (matric languages) + 16 (matric maths) + 18 (EAAB board exam) leaves you with only 76 credits to achieve to get the full qualification! That reduces your work load substantially.
You can now register for an exemption application to have your qualifications evaluated and those credits uploaded to give you some credits towards the ‘New’ FET Certificate in Real Estate (59097)
27. Is getting this qualification going to help me be more effective in my day to day work?
Yes. When you work through the RPL clusters, assignments and questions and compile the PoE, you begin to realize how many basics you overlook which are crucial to being a success in the real estate field. The entire RPL process is actually very educational and most people do enjoy it.
28. If I have a partially completed degree, will the subjects I have passed be taken into consideration?
Learning is never wasted. The subjects that you have passed may be considered if they a relevant to this qualification. For example if you completed nursing 1, you can’t get credits because there is no nursing in the FETC Real Estate, but if you have completed marketing this can be considered for some credit exemptions. The exemptions are discussed by Prior Learning Centre during their preparatory session. Not all providers offer exemptions though - so take care to ask when you enrol for RPL.
29. If I follow the RPL process, must I still go for further training?
It is possible to obtain the full 150 credits (in other words the full FETC Real Estate) through the RPL process. In this case top up training is not necessary. However, you may have areas where you cannot show an assessor that you are fully competent. Your assessor will tell you what unit standards you are competent in and which you are not yet competent for. You then have the choice – do you want to remediate (do a supplementary) at an additional cost OR do you want to attend training to bridge the gaps in your knowledge and be re-assessed by the training provider (also at an additional cost).
30. I have lost all my certificates? Now what?
You will have to show proof of relevant qualifications in order to get credits or any exemptions for certain unit standards. Without the certificates this exemption process is, unfortunately, not possible. You will then have to resubmit evidence (answer questions) to show that you are competent.
31. I wrote matric in Kenya (or Zimbabwe or any other country), will that count?
Unfortunately not. You can apply to SAQA (www.saqa.org.za) to have your foreign certificates evaluated and mapped to the local qualifications framework. By doing this you may be able to gain some exemptions. However, the FETC Real Estate includes two official South African languages and you will at the very least have to prove competence at a second language if you have a foreign school leaving certificate.
Any two of the official languages in South Africa will be taken into consideration to get the credits towards the language fundamental unit standards – as long as you passed your matric in full.
32. Will there still be a “Board exam”?
The old multiple choice exam will be replaced by the Professional Designation Examination (PDE), which will be set and administered by the EAAB. The PDE will be written after you have obtained the FETC Real Estate in full (all 150 credits). If you have been a registered agent for five years or more (as at effective date – see question 2) you will be exempt from the PDE, but NOT from the FET Certificate, you still need the new qualification. If you have been a registered agent for less than 5 years then you will write the PDE once you have completed the FETC Real Estate.
33. Who will issue certificates in future?
The different role players issue different certificates:
• EAAB – Fidelity Fund Certificate once you have completed the FETC Real Estate and
the PDE (if applicable);
• National Certificate Real Estate (FETC) Services SETA and EAAB as Certification partner
• Partial qualification FETC Real Estate – your accredited provider.
34. Pro’s & cons of the new qualification:
Pros:
• More professional agents.
• Proper educational standards for the Industry.
• No more commission issues.
• Less agents, more money for you.
Cons:
• Will take longer for new agents to start.
• Scarcity of agents, could be a problem in some areas.
• Much more costly in future to enter the industry.
35. How will all of this be enforced in the Industry?
• Verifiers (from the Services SETA ETQA), assessors & moderators will play a crucial
role in the future. The ETQA will do regular site visits to accredited providers to ensure quality is maintained.
• Media will play a crucial role, EAAB and Institute will inform and educate the public as to what the new qualification entails and warn sellers and buyers about the pitfalls.
• Agents will not be able to work or get deals registered without the FET Certificate.
Attorneys will only be able to deal with registered agents.
• All agents who do the qualification – either through training (study) or assessing (RPL) will ensure that all their seller and buyers know about the new legislation. Agents will help to regulate the Industry.
36. Can I enrol for cluster 1 and send my colleague for cluster 2?
No, each candidate who starts with the RPL process will be individually uploaded onto the Service SETA and the EAAB as a learner who has started. If a colleague pitches for cluster 2, there will be no information of him as a learner and he will be asked to leave. The EAAB also needs to know which agent is in the process of RPL so that they can issue FFC in the interim period up to 2011.
37. I have done many courses: Board exam, Dip App course through IEASA, I have matric with maths, etc, and I already have 129 credits. Or maybe I have a degree? Do I have to RPL?
Prior Learning Centre has outlined a process that allows candidates to apply for exemptions before they even start with RPL. Those who obtain full exemptions will be uploaded as exempt once the accredited provider has verified all their qualifications. But the onus remains on the candidate to provide certified proof of the qualifications earned!
38. What is Recognition of Prior Learning?
“Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process whereby, through assessment, credit is given to learning which has already been acquired in different ways.” SAQA Publication: Criteria and Guidelines for Assessment of NQF Registered Unit Standards & Qualifications RPL will allow you the opportunity to demonstrate knowledge, skills and attitude that you have acquired from previous learning (formal training, workplace learning, general life experiences, etc.).
39. Tell me about the full qualification.
The Further Education and Training Certificate: Real Estate is a nationally and (internationally) recognised qualification. This qualification is designed for those learners who are already involved in the field of Property and Real Estate. It is also for learners who wish to seek a career in this industry. It is registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) at level 4.
40. Explain the assessment procedure.
This qualification can be achieved either by attending accredited training and completing structured assessments OR by simply being assessed. This process of assessment, without first attending relevant training is known as recognition of prior learning (RPL). The RPL assessment will be in the format of written assignments and knowledge question. These will be presented in a portfolio of evidence (PoE) that candidates must complete in their own time.
41. Who accepts RPL?
RPL is a legally accepted academic process introduced in South Africa in 1995 as part of the SAQA Act. Major South African companies are using RPL as part of their assessment practices. There is no difference between the certification you will receive via RPL and the certification received by a learner who studied in the traditional way. RPL is recognized way of gaining a qualification or credits through SAQA. However, in practice some people may not understand how RPL works and they may have questions about its validity. Prior Learning Centre can assist you to deal with these.
42. What can I get out of RPL?
RPL can be used for:
o Access into a formal qualification at a higher level than you would normally have accessed it without RPL (for example access into the CFP post-graduate programs at universities)
o Partial credit for a qualification – which will shorten the time that you need to complete the full qualification
o Full credit for a formal qualification (for example the Full Real Estate FETC)
43. What are the benefits for me of RPL?
o Better career prospects because you are better qualified
o More mobility as an employee because you will have more to show and offer a new employer
o Recognition for all the learning you have gained during your working life
o An opportunity to become certificated
o A possible shorter time to gain a qualification
o Takes away exam anxiety
o Focused on the adult learner
44. What will I get at the end of the RPL process?
If the registered assessor (working for an accredited provider) assesses you to be competent then you will be awarded a certificate by the certifying body (Services SETA and EAAB in this case). This will also be recorded on the National Learner Record Database (a national registry of all credits and qualifications issued).
If the assessor does not assess you as competent, you will be given a report identifying the areas that you need to address before certification can take place. You may be awarded a certificate of competence for individual unit standards.
45. How long will it take me to RPL a full year’s qualification?
You need to produce sufficient evidence for the assessor to find you competent. The time that this takes will vary from individual to individual and from qualification to qualification. Your RPL Adviser will be better able to advise you on this matter during the Prepare Yourself for RPL Training, but you should allow a few months at least for the process.
46. Who is Prior Learning Centre?
Prior Learning Centre is a private, multi-purpose assessment centre that specializes in RPL provision. Prior Learning Centre is in partnership with a number of certification partners and training providers and we have worked on a large number of RPL projects that cut across industries and SETAs. Prior Learning Centre operates on a national basis.
Prior Learning Centre has full accreditation status for the new FECT Real Estate. We were the first provider accredited by the Services SETA for this purpose.
For more information contact Prior Learning Centre on tel:
011 469 3600 and talk to an RPL Adviser or email: carryn@rpl.co.za
Contact Prior Learning Centre
PO Box 3957
Dainfern
2055
Tel: 011 469 3600
Fax: 011 469 4779
www.rpl.co.za
47. Useful web sites for more information:
• www.ieasanorth.co.za (training)
• www.eaab.org.za (regulating body)
• www.saqa.org.za (SAQA)
• www.serviceseta.org.za
• www.rpl.co.za (RPL and Prior Learning Centre)
Courtesy of the Prior Learning Centre
You can go to the following websites for more information:
• The new qualification for agents is registered on the NQF by SAQA: www.saqa.org.za
• Real estate qualifications and accredited training or RPL assessment centres fall
Service Seta: www.serviceseta.org
• You will also find information on EAAB: www.eaab.org.za
• Institute for estate agents, training: www.ieasanorth.co.za
• Prior Learning Centre to RPL: www.rpl.co.za
The regulations in particular say it all (download it from the EAAB or you can request it via email from us help@rpl.co.za ).
2. What is the effective date?
The ‘effective date’ is 15 July 2008. This date is effectively to be the ‘cut off date’ for the board exam and agents registered with the EAAB before this date must attempt to earn the qualification through RPL and those registered after this date must serve a 12 month candidature-ship and earn the same qualification through formal training and assessment with an accredited training provider (accredited by the Services SETA for this qualification specifically – and they must be able to prove this accreditation to you).
3. Is RPL compulsory? Who must do it?
Yes RPL is compulsory. All existing agents must attempt RPL to earn the FETC qualification in Real Estate by 2011 as gazetted in the regulations. The RPL process will identify gaps in knowledge and these can be bridged through further formal training and assessment. These gaps must be bridged by the end of 2013. RPL can only be offered by an accredited RPL centre (accredited by the Services SETA).
4. Due to the fact that the new syllabus has not been approved of yet – is there a chance that the RPL will change and then what if I have completed it, will I have to do it all over again?
The new syllabus and qualification FET Certificate Real Estate was registered on an NQF level 4, ID no 59097. It has been approved and stands until Dec 2010, It is, therefore, safe to start with the RPL process because it will not change for at least another three years..
Visit the following website to view the full qualification: www.saqa.org.za (South Africa Qualifications Authority).
The service provider that you will use to do RPL had to go through lengthy processes in order to offer RPL, their material had to be assessed and accredited by the relevant SETA. They have to have a registration number in order to offer RPL in Real Estate. Make sure that you make use of a proper Assessment Centre so as not to fall prey to theft and fraud.
5. I’ve been an agent for 4 years, do I have to write the new EAAB exam?
All registered agents that have been in the industry for 5 years or longer as of the effective date (see question 2) are exempt from the new exam (called the Professional Designation Examination -PDE). However, these agents are not exempt from completing the FET Certificate in Real Estate. All agents who have been in the Industry for less than 5 years (as at effective date) will have to do the PDE exam after they have completed the FET Certificate Real Estate.
Only once you have completed both the qualification (compulsory for all) and the PDE (either by writing it or being exempt) will you be able to get your Fidelity Fund Certificate post 2011.
6. With regards to this new qualification, what is the next step as a principal?
Firstly, make sure that all your agents know what they have to do (get the qualification) and by when (2011). Make sure they are informed and have access to information and an accredited provider. All existing agents must have completed the RPL process for the Further Education & Training Certificate (FETC) in Real Estate by December 2011.
7. What happens if I am an agent now and I want to start my own agency – how do I become a principal?
Assuming you are an agent now and will stay an agent until you become a principal, you will complete the RPL for non-principal agent (remember it is not necessary if you have held an FFC for longer than 5 years) Then you will complete the principal NQF 5 through RPL and/or training and write the principal PDE. There is no need to do a 12 month you are already an agent with an FFC so that requirement is waived.
8. If an agent is new in the Industry and has just written and passed the “old Board Exam” must he still do the new qualification?
The EAAB exam is simply a part of the new FETC qualification. All existing agents in SA will have to get the new qualification through the RPL process, whether you have been an agent for 6 months, 6 years, or 16 years. An agent, who has been in the Industry will probably find it easier to gather evidence though, whereas the new agent might have to work harder to gather his/her evidence.
9. I have completed the ‘old’ FET Certificate recently – do I still have to do the whole RPL process for the ‘new’ FETC Certificate?
Qualifications are updated constantly and the ‘old’ FETC qualification (SAQA ID number 24454) has expired and been replaced by the ‘new’ updated FETC certificate (SAQA ID 59097). If you have completed the ‘old’ FET Certificate Real Estate you will be exempt for the entire qualification providing that you can issue proof of completion of the qualification. The new regulations specifically mention the ‘new’ FETC in Real Estate.
10. Why do the costs seem so high – especially in these difficult times?
Formal education comes at a price. At the end of the RPL process you will be awarded a nationally registered qualification that has been benchmarked internationally. Any qualification at a College or University will cost you tens of thousands of rands. The RPL fee covers the entire RPL process and all the assessment materials and SETA administration. Most providers will charge fees in line with the agreed ‘rack rate’ (set by the Services SETA).
11. There is someone in my area who claims to offer some RPL at a lower fee. Why should I pay the higher fee? Is this just a money making scheme?
No, it is not a money making scheme. A great deal of work goes into designing RPL instruments, training and registering assessors, moderators and verifiers all RPL assessment centres must employ and they must be in place in order to be accredited by the Services SETA. There will always be fly by night providers – so be very careful not to be caught due to a lack of knowledge. It is up to you to ensure that the RPL provider you use is registered with the relevant SETA (in the case of Real Estate it is Service SETA). If they are accredited they can do the RPL assessments, the moderation, and upload your results to the SETA and issue you with your certificate. Take care to check if they are fully accredited (check their accreditation certificate or letter). If they are not, the RPL may cost less but you will not get any credits.
12. If we don’t think the ‘new’ FET Certificate Real Estate NQF level 4 covers everything that an agent needs to know can we get it added?
No, the NQF 4 qualification is now final and has been registered by SAQA (28 November 2007). But all qualifications are reviewed every three years – and the date for review is December 2010. So, keep your comments and address them to the Services SETA to be considered in that review.
13. I’ve been selling houses for 18 years, do I really need the new FET Certificate?
Yes, all registered agents in SA have to have the new qualification. And you have to start your journey towards achieving the qualification through RPL. Areas that you are not able to show competence in will then be addressed after the RPL through formal assessment. (Note that many agents will be able to show full competence during the RPL process and will not have to attend any additional training.)
14. I’ve been an agent for 7 years, can I offer training now?
In order to train in the SETA/ SAQA environment you must be a subject matter expert and an educationalist (at least be a registered facilitator and assessor). You must then work for an accredited provider, as only accredited providers can award nationally registered credits and qualifications. Many people see education as an easy way to make money but it really isn’t. The barriers to entry are high and competition is tough.
15. How long will it take before I will receive my FET Certificate
It depends on you. Where you are paying for the RPL you can elect to enrol to do the RPL step by step (module by module) or you can enrol for the full qualification in one go. Where you are paying for yourself you can ask for extensions and delay your submissions. However, if you are awarded a bursary you will need to meet set deadlines and submissions. Some people can complete the full qualification in a few months (the record so far is 6 weeks) while others may take 3 years! It really is up to you.
The RPL process is designed to match each candidate according to his own pace and financial position.
16. How will I know if the course I am doing is accredited?
Ask the RPL centre for their SETA decision number, and ask to see either the letter or certificate that specifically states they are registered by the SETA for the FETC Real Estate NQF 4 (ID 59097). It is crucial that you only make use of an accredited assessment centre or training provider. If you use a provider that is not accredited (for this specific qualification) you will not earn your credits and all the work you will do will be for nothing.
17. For how long will my FET certificate be valid?
It is a qualification that you earn. It will be valid forever. However, you will have to maintain your industry knowledge through Continuing Professional Development (CPD) with the EAAB and Services SETA. Details of this will be available from the EAAB in due course.
18. After receiving my FET certificate, will I still need to do other training?
On completion of the FET certificate, you will keep your industry knowledge up to date through Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Other training that you might want to do will still be up to you – but it may not necessarily ‘count’ towards a formal qualification.
19. How will an assessor be able to assess my 25 years experience? (I started selling even before they were born!)
All registered real estate assessors have to be subject matter experts. They can only get this status as a constituent assessor and registered assessor if they can prove their own competency levels. The FETC Real Estate prescribes the level of qualifications and experience that an assessor must have. The assessor assesses against the unit standards – which are prescribed and registered by SAQA, so the element of subjectivity is reduced considerably.
20. Can I trust an assessment?
Assessors will lose their status to assess if they don’t comply with the code of conduct of the Services SETA. They must uphold the level, standards, assessment principles and act with integrity in all assessment situations.
21. I am a qualified agent and received some information regarding the new training available. What is the next step for me if I would like to qualify myself as a Principal? Can I just complete the specific course and if so when is the next opportunity?
If you want to be a Principal BEFORE the effective date (see question 2) then you will register with the EAAB in the usual way with the usual supporting documents. You will then embark upon the RPL process for principals (who need to do RPL NQF 5 in Real Estate – this qualification will be registered shortly and then RPL will commence). If you want to register as a principal AFTER the effective date the situation is unclear and we are waiting to hear from the Board how they will deal with prospective principals.
22. The FET certificate for estate agents is a NQF level 4. Principals must have a qualification of NQF level 5. Must they be certified on SAQA QUAL ID 59097 which is on level 4 as well as further training? Which additional courses must they do, or will there be a specific SAQA QUAL ID on level 5?
The FET Certificate Level 4 is not compulsory for principals. They can wait for the NQF 5 Real Estate (which will be registered by SAQA shortly). Once the qualification is registered, principals will be able to start their own RPL process to achieve it. However – a number of principals who have attended the FET Certificate Real Estate level 4 RPL workshop have reported that they have found the process personally beneficial. But it is not compulsory.
23. Will I be able to pass the new qualification?
We don’t use the terms ‘pass’ and ‘fail’ any more ‘- nowadays we say people are either competent’ or ‘not yet competent’.
Anyone can be found competent for the new FETC Real Estate qualification as long as they put in sufficient effort and time. If you are found “not yet competent” then you will have a chance to remediate (what we used to call ‘writing a supplementary’) and gather more evidence. There is a separate charge for this remediation so it is better to try and get it right the first time. Alternatively you may elect to attend bridging training and be assessed rather than remediate (there may be a cost for this bridging training).
24. Is this really important?
Apart from the fact that it is really important for the Industry to finally have a proper minimum education level so that it can become more professional, it is now law that agents get the qualification. So, agents don’t have a choice whether they want to get this new qualification or not. If you want to stay in the industry you must get the qualification.
25. Can I arrange for down payment and terms?
You will have to arrange with your company or a bank to assist you with funding if need be. One cannot enrol at university and pay the fees off in self-determined instalments. If you do not have access to a bursary through either your company or your provider then you will have to borrow money to fund the RPL process. Very few providers (if any) have registered under the National Credit Act to advance credit and take instalments.
26. Which qualifications will count for your PoE (Portfolio of Evidence)?
Prior Learning Centre has an Exemption Matrix approved by the EAAB. During the first two days of RPL preparation, we work through this exemption matrix. It is during this session that you get to know about the credits and exemptions that you already have so that you don’t waste time completing assignments or submitting evidence for credits that you already have.
Common exemptions include 40 credits for the two languages if you have Matric + 16 credits if your Matric includes Maths. Then if you have written the EAAB board exam you have an additional 18 credits. The whole FETC Real Estate is made up of 150 credits (minimum you must earn), so having exemptions for 40 (matric languages) + 16 (matric maths) + 18 (EAAB board exam) leaves you with only 76 credits to achieve to get the full qualification! That reduces your work load substantially.
You can now register for an exemption application to have your qualifications evaluated and those credits uploaded to give you some credits towards the ‘New’ FET Certificate in Real Estate (59097)
27. Is getting this qualification going to help me be more effective in my day to day work?
Yes. When you work through the RPL clusters, assignments and questions and compile the PoE, you begin to realize how many basics you overlook which are crucial to being a success in the real estate field. The entire RPL process is actually very educational and most people do enjoy it.
28. If I have a partially completed degree, will the subjects I have passed be taken into consideration?
Learning is never wasted. The subjects that you have passed may be considered if they a relevant to this qualification. For example if you completed nursing 1, you can’t get credits because there is no nursing in the FETC Real Estate, but if you have completed marketing this can be considered for some credit exemptions. The exemptions are discussed by Prior Learning Centre during their preparatory session. Not all providers offer exemptions though - so take care to ask when you enrol for RPL.
29. If I follow the RPL process, must I still go for further training?
It is possible to obtain the full 150 credits (in other words the full FETC Real Estate) through the RPL process. In this case top up training is not necessary. However, you may have areas where you cannot show an assessor that you are fully competent. Your assessor will tell you what unit standards you are competent in and which you are not yet competent for. You then have the choice – do you want to remediate (do a supplementary) at an additional cost OR do you want to attend training to bridge the gaps in your knowledge and be re-assessed by the training provider (also at an additional cost).
30. I have lost all my certificates? Now what?
You will have to show proof of relevant qualifications in order to get credits or any exemptions for certain unit standards. Without the certificates this exemption process is, unfortunately, not possible. You will then have to resubmit evidence (answer questions) to show that you are competent.
31. I wrote matric in Kenya (or Zimbabwe or any other country), will that count?
Unfortunately not. You can apply to SAQA (www.saqa.org.za) to have your foreign certificates evaluated and mapped to the local qualifications framework. By doing this you may be able to gain some exemptions. However, the FETC Real Estate includes two official South African languages and you will at the very least have to prove competence at a second language if you have a foreign school leaving certificate.
Any two of the official languages in South Africa will be taken into consideration to get the credits towards the language fundamental unit standards – as long as you passed your matric in full.
32. Will there still be a “Board exam”?
The old multiple choice exam will be replaced by the Professional Designation Examination (PDE), which will be set and administered by the EAAB. The PDE will be written after you have obtained the FETC Real Estate in full (all 150 credits). If you have been a registered agent for five years or more (as at effective date – see question 2) you will be exempt from the PDE, but NOT from the FET Certificate, you still need the new qualification. If you have been a registered agent for less than 5 years then you will write the PDE once you have completed the FETC Real Estate.
33. Who will issue certificates in future?
The different role players issue different certificates:
• EAAB – Fidelity Fund Certificate once you have completed the FETC Real Estate and
the PDE (if applicable);
• National Certificate Real Estate (FETC) Services SETA and EAAB as Certification partner
• Partial qualification FETC Real Estate – your accredited provider.
34. Pro’s & cons of the new qualification:
Pros:
• More professional agents.
• Proper educational standards for the Industry.
• No more commission issues.
• Less agents, more money for you.
Cons:
• Will take longer for new agents to start.
• Scarcity of agents, could be a problem in some areas.
• Much more costly in future to enter the industry.
35. How will all of this be enforced in the Industry?
• Verifiers (from the Services SETA ETQA), assessors & moderators will play a crucial
role in the future. The ETQA will do regular site visits to accredited providers to ensure quality is maintained.
• Media will play a crucial role, EAAB and Institute will inform and educate the public as to what the new qualification entails and warn sellers and buyers about the pitfalls.
• Agents will not be able to work or get deals registered without the FET Certificate.
Attorneys will only be able to deal with registered agents.
• All agents who do the qualification – either through training (study) or assessing (RPL) will ensure that all their seller and buyers know about the new legislation. Agents will help to regulate the Industry.
36. Can I enrol for cluster 1 and send my colleague for cluster 2?
No, each candidate who starts with the RPL process will be individually uploaded onto the Service SETA and the EAAB as a learner who has started. If a colleague pitches for cluster 2, there will be no information of him as a learner and he will be asked to leave. The EAAB also needs to know which agent is in the process of RPL so that they can issue FFC in the interim period up to 2011.
37. I have done many courses: Board exam, Dip App course through IEASA, I have matric with maths, etc, and I already have 129 credits. Or maybe I have a degree? Do I have to RPL?
Prior Learning Centre has outlined a process that allows candidates to apply for exemptions before they even start with RPL. Those who obtain full exemptions will be uploaded as exempt once the accredited provider has verified all their qualifications. But the onus remains on the candidate to provide certified proof of the qualifications earned!
38. What is Recognition of Prior Learning?
“Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process whereby, through assessment, credit is given to learning which has already been acquired in different ways.” SAQA Publication: Criteria and Guidelines for Assessment of NQF Registered Unit Standards & Qualifications RPL will allow you the opportunity to demonstrate knowledge, skills and attitude that you have acquired from previous learning (formal training, workplace learning, general life experiences, etc.).
39. Tell me about the full qualification.
The Further Education and Training Certificate: Real Estate is a nationally and (internationally) recognised qualification. This qualification is designed for those learners who are already involved in the field of Property and Real Estate. It is also for learners who wish to seek a career in this industry. It is registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) at level 4.
40. Explain the assessment procedure.
This qualification can be achieved either by attending accredited training and completing structured assessments OR by simply being assessed. This process of assessment, without first attending relevant training is known as recognition of prior learning (RPL). The RPL assessment will be in the format of written assignments and knowledge question. These will be presented in a portfolio of evidence (PoE) that candidates must complete in their own time.
41. Who accepts RPL?
RPL is a legally accepted academic process introduced in South Africa in 1995 as part of the SAQA Act. Major South African companies are using RPL as part of their assessment practices. There is no difference between the certification you will receive via RPL and the certification received by a learner who studied in the traditional way. RPL is recognized way of gaining a qualification or credits through SAQA. However, in practice some people may not understand how RPL works and they may have questions about its validity. Prior Learning Centre can assist you to deal with these.
42. What can I get out of RPL?
RPL can be used for:
o Access into a formal qualification at a higher level than you would normally have accessed it without RPL (for example access into the CFP post-graduate programs at universities)
o Partial credit for a qualification – which will shorten the time that you need to complete the full qualification
o Full credit for a formal qualification (for example the Full Real Estate FETC)
43. What are the benefits for me of RPL?
o Better career prospects because you are better qualified
o More mobility as an employee because you will have more to show and offer a new employer
o Recognition for all the learning you have gained during your working life
o An opportunity to become certificated
o A possible shorter time to gain a qualification
o Takes away exam anxiety
o Focused on the adult learner
44. What will I get at the end of the RPL process?
If the registered assessor (working for an accredited provider) assesses you to be competent then you will be awarded a certificate by the certifying body (Services SETA and EAAB in this case). This will also be recorded on the National Learner Record Database (a national registry of all credits and qualifications issued).
If the assessor does not assess you as competent, you will be given a report identifying the areas that you need to address before certification can take place. You may be awarded a certificate of competence for individual unit standards.
45. How long will it take me to RPL a full year’s qualification?
You need to produce sufficient evidence for the assessor to find you competent. The time that this takes will vary from individual to individual and from qualification to qualification. Your RPL Adviser will be better able to advise you on this matter during the Prepare Yourself for RPL Training, but you should allow a few months at least for the process.
46. Who is Prior Learning Centre?
Prior Learning Centre is a private, multi-purpose assessment centre that specializes in RPL provision. Prior Learning Centre is in partnership with a number of certification partners and training providers and we have worked on a large number of RPL projects that cut across industries and SETAs. Prior Learning Centre operates on a national basis.
Prior Learning Centre has full accreditation status for the new FECT Real Estate. We were the first provider accredited by the Services SETA for this purpose.
For more information contact Prior Learning Centre on tel:
011 469 3600 and talk to an RPL Adviser or email: carryn@rpl.co.za
Contact Prior Learning Centre
PO Box 3957
Dainfern
2055
Tel: 011 469 3600
Fax: 011 469 4779
www.rpl.co.za
47. Useful web sites for more information:
• www.ieasanorth.co.za (training)
• www.eaab.org.za (regulating body)
• www.saqa.org.za (SAQA)
• www.serviceseta.org.za
• www.rpl.co.za (RPL and Prior Learning Centre)
Courtesy of the Prior Learning Centre
