Occupational Certificate: Social Auxiliary Worker
SAQA ID
98890
NQF Level
05
Credits
129
Purpose
Prepares learners to work under the supervision of social workers, assisting individuals, families, and communities through support services related to emotional trauma, financial stress, housing, and social development.
Rationale
Addresses the critical need for social support in South Africa. Social Auxiliary Workers play a vital supporting role in delivering social welfare services, particularly in under-resourced communities. Registration with SACSSP is required for practice.
Entry Requirements
- NQF Level 4 qualification or equivalent
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is allowed
Qualification Components
- Knowledge Modules (50 credits):
- Social welfare context (28)
- Methods and principles (9)
- Communication and life skills (13)
- Practical Skill Modules (33 credits):
- Tasks include counselling, support for families and communities, group facilitation, and data collection.
- Work Experience Modules (46 credits):
- Covers real-world exposure in client counselling, group facilitation, community development, and admin processes.
Exit Level Outcomes
- Provide counselling and support
- Apply casework and group work theories
- Facilitate group processes
- Conduct community assessments and planning
- Implement intervention methods
- Work effectively within the social auxiliary scope
Assessment
- Formative (internal)
- Summative (external) via QCTO Assessment Partner
International Comparability
Comparable to US Social and Human Services Assistant and NZ National Diploma in Social and Community Work. This qualification has broader theoretical grounding and more structured work experience than international counterparts.
Articulation
- Horizontal: Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work (NQF 5)
- Vertical: Diploma in Social Work (NQF 6)