What Is The Difference Between NATED And Levels?

In South Africa, the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector offers a variety of qualifications to equip learners with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers.

Knowing the different paths within TVET can be confusing, particularly when it comes to terms like NATED and Levels.

What is NATED?

NATED stands for National Certificate Vocational (Technical) Education and Training.

It’s a qualification designed by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) to provide vocational or technical skills training.

NATED courses focus on practical application to prepare learners for specific job roles within various industries.

The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on learning.

This is to ensure graduates possess the necessary practical skills for immediate employment.

NATED qualifications are offered at different levels within the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) of South Africa.

The NQF is a standardized system that classifies all educational and training qualifications according to a set of learning outcomes.

NATED qualifications usually range from N1 (NQF Level 2) to N6 (NQF Level 6).

Who can enroll in NATED courses?

NATED courses are suited for learners who have completed their National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Matric qualification.

However, there are provisions for learners who haven’t completed Matric to enter the system through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

RPL allows individuals with relevant work experience or prior learning to gain credit towards a NATED qualification.

What are Levels in the NATED Framework?

Levels refer to the progression within the NATED qualification framework.

Each level signifies a level of complexity and learning that has been achieved.

The NQF uses a ten-level system, with NATED qualifications ranging from N1 to N6.

Here’s a look at the NATED Levels:

1. N1 & N2 (NQF Levels 2 & 3): These introductory levels provide foundational skills and knowledge in a particular field. Learners enter these levels after completing Grade 9 or 10.
2. N3 (NQF Level 4): This level is equivalent to a Matric certificate and equips learners with a broader range of technical skills and theoretical knowledge relevant to their chosen career path.
3. N4-N6 (NQF Levels 5 & 6): These advanced levels focus on specialization within a chosen field. Learners develop in-depth technical competence and supervisory skills, preparing them for employment in skilled positions or further studies towards a National Diploma.
4. N6 Diploma (NQF Level 6): The highest level within the NATED framework, the N6 Diploma signifies a strong foundation in a specialized field. This qualification allows graduates to pursue careers as qualified technicians or supervisors, or to bridge into Bachelor’s Degree programs in some fields.

It is essential to remember that NATED qualifications are not the same as National Certificate Vocational (NCV) qualifications.

NCVs were a previous vocational qualification system and have been phased out in favor of the NATED framework.

Who Should Consider NATED Qualifications?

NATED qualifications are a valuable option for several groups:

1. Learners who have completed Grade 9 or 10 and are looking for career-focused education.
2. Individuals seeking to develop practical skills for immediate employment in a skilled trade.
3. Those who wish to upskill or reskill in a specific field to enhance their career prospects.
4. Learners who want a qualification that allows them to enter the workforce while keeping the option open for further studies towards a National Diploma or Degree later.

What’s the Difference between NATED and Levels?

While both NATED and Levels are used within the TVET system, they represent different concepts. 

NATED is a qualification that is designed for vocational training, whereas Levels refer to the broader NQF system that categorizes all educational and training programs.

Also, NATED qualifications provide specific vocational skills and knowledge in a particular field, while Levels simply indicate the complexity of learning outcomes achieved at a particular stage.

Is NATED equivalent to a Degree?

No, a NATED qualification is not equivalent to a degree.

Degrees usually fall within the higher NQF levels (NQF Level 7 onwards) and offer a broader, more theoretical education that prepares graduates for professional careers or further academic studies.

NATED qualifications, on the other hand, focus on developing practical skills for specific job roles.

However, NATED qualifications can be a stepping stone towards a degree.

Some institutions offer NATED qualifications that articulate with degree programs, allowing NATED graduates to gain credit towards a higher qualification.