In South Africa, the demand for qualified trainers, facilitators, and assessors continues to grow across various sectors. As education and skills development remain top priorities, SETA-accredited courses offer an excellent pathway for individuals looking to build a meaningful career in education and training. Whether you’re a new graduate, unemployed youth, or working professional aiming to upskill, SETA courses for education and training provide structured learning and practical experience that is both recognised and valued nationwide.
In this article, we explore the different SETA-accredited programmes available in the Education, Training and Development Practices (ETDP) sector, the benefits of these courses, and where to study them in 2025.
What is ETDP SETA?
The Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP SETA) is one of South Africa’s 21 SETAs. It focuses specifically on building skills in the education and training sector. This includes developing facilitators, assessors, moderators, skills development facilitators (SDFs), and other professionals responsible for transferring knowledge and skills in workplaces, schools, colleges, and community organisations.
ETDP SETA ensures that training providers meet national quality standards and that learners receive qualifications that are recognised by employers and educational institutions across the country.
Popular SETA Courses for Education and Training
Below are some of the most sought-after ETDP SETA-accredited programmes that you can enrol in during 2025:
1. Facilitator Course (Train the Trainer) – Unit Standard 117871
This course is designed to equip learners with the ability to plan, prepare, and deliver effective training sessions in various learning environments. It is ideal for aspiring facilitators, lecturers, and workplace trainers.
Key Outcomes:
- Understanding adult learning principles
- Preparing and conducting training sessions
- Evaluating learner progress
2. Assessor Course – Unit Standard 115753
The assessor course allows participants to assess learners for competency against registered unit standards or qualifications. This course is essential for anyone involved in formal education or workplace training assessments.
Key Outcomes:
- Understanding the principles of outcomes-based assessment
- Conducting assessments in a fair and transparent manner
- Providing constructive feedback to learners
3. Moderator Course – Unit Standard 115759
Once you’ve completed your assessor training, the moderator course enables you to oversee the assessment process and ensure its quality. Moderators play a vital role in maintaining consistency across training organisations.
Key Outcomes:
- Understanding moderation systems and tools
- Planning and conducting moderation activities
- Ensuring adherence to ETDP SETA quality assurance standards
4. Skills Development Facilitator (SDF) – Unit Standards 15217, 15218, 15227, 15232, 15228, 15221
An SDF plays a key role in identifying skills gaps in an organisation and implementing training solutions. This qualification is often required by companies when compiling Workplace Skills Plans (WSPs) and Annual Training Reports (ATRs).
Key Outcomes:
- Conducting skills audits
- Compiling WSPs and ATRs for SETA submissions
- Coordinating training interventions in the workplace
5. Education Training and Development (ETD) Practitioner Qualification – NQF Level 5
This full qualification equips learners with the knowledge and skills to design and implement learning programmes, evaluate outcomes, and manage education projects. It’s ideal for those seeking a long-term career in education and training.
Who Should Take These Courses?
SETA courses for education and training are suitable for:
- School leavers and graduates wanting to enter the training sector
- Educators, lecturers, and TVET instructors
- HR and learning and development (L&D) professionals
- NGO workers and community educators
- Entrepreneurs offering training services
- Public sector employees involved in skills development
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to formalise your experience, there’s a SETA course designed for your career path.
Benefits of SETA Courses in Education and Training
- National Recognition:
All ETDP SETA-accredited courses are registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and recognised by employers and institutions. - Career Advancement:
These qualifications open doors to roles such as training facilitator, assessor, moderator, SDF, education officer, and learning consultant. - Improved Employability:
As SETA courses blend theory with practical experience, graduates gain valuable skills that meet workplace demands. - Workplace Relevance:
Most of the programmes are aligned with real-world outcomes and are designed with input from industry experts. - Access to Learnerships and Internships:
Completing SETA qualifications increases your chances of being selected for funded learnerships and internships supported by government and employers.
Where to Study ETDP SETA Courses in 2025
There are several reputable training providers accredited by ETDP SETA. Here are some of the most popular and trusted institutions:
1. Afrika Tikkun
Offers learnerships and SETA-accredited programmes in facilitation, assessment, and workplace training. Ideal for youth development and workplace readiness.
2. INSETA Skills Academy
Known for their national presence and diverse course offerings, they specialise in accredited skills development programmes including SDF training.
3. Dynamique Konzepts
Provides facilitator, assessor, and moderator courses. They offer flexible online and face-to-face options ideal for working professionals.
4. UJ Continuing Education (University of Johannesburg)
Offers ETDP SETA programmes with university-level support and academic rigour. Great for those seeking formal career development.
5. Optimum Learning Technologies
Provides high-quality, outcomes-based education solutions tailored for both private and public sector training needs.
⚠️ Tip: Always verify that a provider is currently accredited with ETDP SETA by visiting www.etdpseta.org.za or contacting the SETA directly.
How to Enrol
To enrol in a SETA course for education and training, follow these steps:
- Choose your course based on your career goals and NQF level.
- Select an accredited provider from the ETDP SETA database.
- Apply online or via email, submitting your ID, Matric certificate, and any relevant qualifications.
- Check for funding opportunities, such as learnerships or bursaries.
- Attend training either full-time, part-time, or online (depending on the provider).
SETA courses for education and training offer an exciting pathway for South Africans passionate about skills development, community upliftment, and lifelong learning. With the support of ETDP SETA and accredited training providers, you can gain the knowledge and certification needed to become a leader in the education and training sector.
Whether you’re just finishing school or pivoting your career, investing in a SETA-accredited qualification could be one of the most rewarding decisions you make in 2025.