Occupational Certificate: Bookkeeper (NQF 5)


Application Closing Date: 21 April 2025

Course Start Date: 21 April 2025

Lecturer: Innocent Shongedza

Earn a QCTO-accredited Bookkeeper qualification (NQF 5) with SA Accounting Academy. Comprehensive online training with practical workplace experience for career advancement in finance. Register now!

About this Course

The Occupational Certificate: Bookkeeper (NQF Level 5, SAQA ID 98959) is a comprehensive professional qualification designed to meet the specific needs of the financial management sector. This industry-recognised certification prepares learners for diverse employment opportunities in finance-related roles across all business sectors and industries.

This qualification is structured around three integrated components that work together to develop well-rounded financial professionals:

  • Knowledge Component: Provides theoretical understanding of bookkeeping principles, financial accounting, taxation, and business systems.
  • Practical Component: Develops hands-on skills through application of theory in simulated work environments.
  • Workplace Component: Experience through structured workplace learning, ensuring graduates are job-ready.

This integration of theory, practice, and workplace experience equips learners with the versatile skills to utilize both digital Information Communication Technology (ICT) solutions and traditional paper-based accounting systems.

The qualification empowers learners to understand, prepare, and analyze complex financial information, enabling them to generate accurate accounting statements and assess organizational financial performance effectively. Beyond technical skills, the program develops crucial business acumen, preparing graduates to communicate financial information professionally to various stakeholders in different formats and contexts.

Recognized by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), this qualification provides a solid foundation for career advancement in accounting and financial management, with potential pathways to higher qualifications and professional designations.


Learning Objectives

This qualification provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of bookkeeping. Upon completion, learners will be able to:

  • Maintain and manage financial records efficiently using both manual and electronic systems.
  • Utilise standard computer software to perform accounting functions and verify the accuracy of financial transactions.
  • Apply fundamental financial techniques to execute bookkeeping tasks accurately.
  • Communicate effectively using professional methods to uphold strong customer relationships in line with organisational standards.
  • Accurately calculate, compile and complete SARS returns related to payroll compliance.
  • Use standard computer software packages to perform accounting and related calculations to verify the accuracy of documents and records relating to payments, receipts and other financial transactions.

Job Opportunities

By studying this qualification, you will be equipped with skills that open doors to various roles, including:

Statutory Functions:

  • Bookkeeper: Maintain accurate financial records and manage day-to-day bookkeeping activities.
  • Financial Assistant: Support financial operations and assist in financial planning and analysis.
  • Accounts Manager: Oversee accounts, manage financial transactions, and ensure accurate financial reporting.
  • Financial Controller: Monitor financial activities, prepare financial statements, and ensure compliance with financial regulations.
  • Junior Accountant: Assist with accounting tasks, prepare financial reports, and support senior accountants.
  • Assistant Finance Manager: Aid in financial management, budget preparation, and financial analysis.
  • Payroll Manager: Manage payroll processes, ensure compliance with tax laws, and handle employee compensation.
  • SARS Registered Tax Practitioner: Handle tax-related duties and compliance for individuals and businesses.

Other Potential Roles:

  • Accounts Administrator: Manage account-related tasks, including billing, invoicing, and account reconciliation.
  • Payroll Administrator and Assistant: Oversee payroll operations and ensure timely and accurate payment to employees.
  • Debtors/Creditors Clerk: Handle accounts receivable and payable, manage invoices, and ensure timely payments.
  • Financial Accountant: Prepare financial statements, manage financial records, and ensure compliance with accounting standards.

Management Functions:

  • Managing Organisational Payments: Oversee payments and financial transactions within an organization.
  • Preparing and Overseeing Ledger Balances: Maintain and review ledger balances, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
  • Completing and Submitting Tax Returns: Handle tax filings, including VAT returns and employee contributions.
  • Preparing Financial Reports: Compile financial reports for management, providing insights and analysis.
  • Assisting with Budget Planning and Audit Preparations: Support budget planning processes and prepare for audits.

Other Functions:

  • Lecturer/Teacher: Educate others in accounting principles and practices.
  • Assessor: Evaluate and assess students' understanding and application of accounting concepts.
  • Moderator: Oversee the quality and consistency of educational programs and assessments.

This qualification prepares you for a wide range of roles within the finance and accounting sectors, ensuring you are well-equipped to meet the demands of various positions.


Delivery

The Occupational Certificate: Bookkeeper (NQF Level 5) follows a comprehensive three-part learning structure:

Part 1: Theory Modules

  • The Knowledge component is delivered through our online learning platform, where learners complete theory modules featuring quizzes, activities, and formative assessments, culminating in a Theory Exam.

Part 2: Practical Training

  • Running concurrently with Part 1, the Practical component involves workbook exercises, observation activities, and skills-based assessments that apply theoretical knowledge to simulated workplace scenarios.

Part 3: Workplace Modules

  • Learners gain hands-on occupational experience at an external workplace, documented through structured observation and a detailed logbook of completed tasks and competencies.

External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA)

  • The learning journey concludes with the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA), a comprehensive evaluation that integrates all components and validates the qualification which is written at a QCTO Assessment Quality Partner.

All components beside the EISA are delivered through the SA Accounting Academy's online learning platform, providing flexibility while ensuring rigorous professional standards are maintained throughout the program.


Is this for you?

This qualification aims to provide successful students with the knowledge, skills and competencies to prepare and analyse financial information, enabling them to generate accounting statements and assess an organisation's financial performance. Students who successfully complete this qualification will be able to:

  • Pursue roles such as Senior Bookkeeper, Financial Assistant, Accounts Manager, Financial Controller, Junior Accountant, Assistant Finance Manager, or Payroll Manager.
  • Manage budgets and evaluate financial performance for clients.
  • Register as a Tax Practitioner with SARS.
  • Start a small practice, confidently drafting financial statements for small enterprises.

Lecturer

Innocent Shongedza

Innocent has more than 12 years industry experience in various finance and accounting roles. During the past 10 years Innocent has moved into the training space where he facilitated on work-readiness programs for thousands of accounting and finance graduates.

He is an assessor and moderator registered with various SETAs where he assesses and moderates accounting and finance qualifications. Innocent also trains QuickBooks Online as well as Sage Pastel.


Prerequisites / Admission Requirements

Successfully completed the FET Certificate: Accounting Technician NQF 4 qualification or Mathematics and English at NQF level 4 for learners accessing this qualification.


Accreditation

SA Accounting Academy is accredited by the QCTO (ID: SDP310723174112) as a Skills Development Provider (SDP) for the Occupational Certificate: Bookkeeper, SAQA ID: 98959, NQF Level: 5.


Assessments

This course includes formative assessments to test your knowledge throughout the Knowledge and Practical component modules. Learners will need to complete a Workplace Logbook to fulfil the Workplace competencies. The learner must achieve all competencies of the course. A final assessment called the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) will round off the training.


Assessment and Certification

Assessment Framework

The assessment system for this qualification consists of multiple components designed to evaluate comprehensive competency:

  • Formative Assessments: Ongoing evaluations throughout each module to gauge progress and understanding.
  • Workplace Logbook: Documentation of workplace experiences and competencies acquired during the practical component.
  • External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA): A final comprehensive assessment conducted by the QCTO Assessment Quality Partner.

Certification Requirements

To qualify for the Occupational Certificate: Bookkeeper (NQF Level 5), learners must:

  1. Successfully complete all compulsory knowledge modules with passing grades.
  2. Demonstrate competence in all required practical skills modules.
  3. Submit a completed and verified workplace experience logbook.
  4. Provide statements of results for all required components.
  5. Pass the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA).

The EISA is a crucial final evaluation that integrates all learning components and focuses on Exit Level Outcomes and associated assessment criteria. This external assessment ensures that certification standards are consistently maintained across all graduates.

Upon successful completion of all requirements, learners will be awarded the officially recognized Occupational Certificate: Bookkeeper at NQF Level 5 (SAQA ID 98959), opening doors to various professional opportunities in the financial sector.


Curriculum

Modules:

  • Module 1: Basic Bookkeeping
  • Module 2: Financial Accounting
  • Module 3: Accounting Information Systems
  • Module 4: Cost and Management Accounting
  • Module 5: Taxation in South Africa
  • Module 6: End-User Computing
  • Module 7: Computerised Accounting
  • Module 8: Professional Ethics and Work Readiness
  • Module 9: Project Management

For more information on what will be covered in the curriculum please download the prospectus.


About SA Accounting Academy

The SA Accounting Academy is an accredited private QCTO, SAICA - AT(SA) and BANKSETA qualifications provider. We are committed to providing our students with the highest quality training and support, to ensure that your skills and knowledge are up to date and ready to face the challenges of the modern workplace. Qualifications and courses delivered are designed to ensure that you reach your professional goals and advance your career. With our experienced faculty, staff, and resources, you can be confident that you will receive the highest quality of training.

SAAA is a Level 2 B-BBEE contributor, with 125% procurement recognition. Training spend on certain solutions can be allocated against the Skills Development element of the B-BBEE Scorecard through accredited and nonaccredited training or claimed through SETA grants. In addition, 25% of your Skills Expenditure can be claimed on non-accredited training or courses.


Course Fees

Invest in your future with our comprehensive qualification. Our fee is an all-inclusive investment in your future.

The course fee is R 37 500.00 and consists of:

Educational Resources

  • Textbooks: Receive top-tier, up-to-date textbooks to support your learning.
  • Online Materials: Access a wealth of online resources, from e-books to webinars, enhancing your learning experience.
  • Live Sessions: Interact in real-time with experts, gaining insights and clarifications on complex topics. Missed a live session? No worries. Access recorded webinars anytime, anywhere.

Learning Support

  • Facilitation: Benefit from expert-led facilitation sessions that offer personalized guidance, addressing individual queries and ensuring a thorough understanding of the subject matter.
  • Formative Assessments: Reinforce your understanding with assessments on different topics.
  • Learner Forum: Engage in meaningful peer-to-peer interactions through our dedicated learner forum. Share insights, ask questions, and collaborate on projects to enhance your learning experience.
  • Continuous Support: Our dedicated team is always on standby to assist with any academic or administrative queries, ensuring a smooth learning process.

Onboarding and Enrollment

  • Onboarding Video: Kickstart your learning journey with an informative video that outlines the qualification structure and what to expect.

Flexibility and Convenience

  • Study Online: Complete your course and take your exams online, giving you the freedom to learn from anywhere.

Investing in this qualification means you receive a holistic educational package, eliminating any hidden costs or additional expenses. Secure your future in financial accounting with a one-time investment that caters to every aspect of your learning journey.


Payment Methods

Debit / Credit Card or Instant EFT

You can pay directly on our website for an easy, secure, and instant transaction. During promotional periods, customers can take advantage of additional savings. This is the fastest and most efficient option, saving both time and money.

Debit Order

You can choose to pay a deposit and the rest off over a certain number of months via debit order. Your study materials are included within the deposit.

EFT / Bank Deposit

You can make a payment directly into our bank account using your Online Banking App, Online Banking services, or by visiting your local bank branch.

Your Company / Employer

It may be beneficial for your company to invest in training for its staff members. As there are financial and tax advantages for doing so, please speak with your employer or Training / HR manager about the possibility of paying for this training.

Third Party

If you have someone who is willing to pay for your studies, such as a parent or relative, they can either log in and pay on our website or they can pay via any of the payment options above on your behalf.


Payment Options

Option 1: Once off payment (application fee is included in this price)

  • R 37 500.00

Option 2: Monthly Debit Order

  • R 3 299.00 (First Payment on Approval *)
  • R 3 291.00 (Monthly Debit Order for 11 Months *)

* The total cost for option 2: Monthly Debit Order including the First Payment on Approval will be R 39 500.00.


Payment Terms

Payments

  • Minimum payments must be made via direct EFT or credit card before a qualification starts.
  • Full payment is required before the start date.
  • For debit order plans, the first payment is due on the start date.
  • Access to content will be denied if payment terms are not followed.

Cancellations

  • Written notice is required for cancellations.
  • Cancellation fees vary based on the timing of the cancellation relative to the start date:
    • No fee if cancelled more than two weeks prior.
    • 25% fee if cancelled less than two weeks prior.
    • 50% fee if cancelled within six weeks after the start.
    • Full fee if cancelled after six weeks of the start.
  • Non-refundable items include course application fees, textbooks, accessed modules, and certain annual fees.

General Terms

  • The application fee, if any, is non-refundable.
  • Continuous access to the content is dependent upon adherence to the payment terms and conditions.
  • Absence from exams without valid reasons results in full liability for exam fees.
  • Postponement of exams after registration incurs a fee.

Corporate Training Solutions

At SA Accounting Academy, we recognize the evolving needs of businesses in today's dynamic environment. Beyond our standard webinar offerings, we provide tailored corporate training solutions designed to empower your team with the latest in accounting and professional skills. Whether you're looking for online sessions or face-to-face training, our programs are crafted to ensure a comprehensive and engaging learning experience.

Drawing inspiration from modern training methodologies, our corporate solutions are interactive, adaptable, and focused on real-world applications. We prioritize hands-on learning, ensuring your team can immediately apply their newfound knowledge in practical scenarios.


Contact Us

Have any questions or need any assistance? Contact us today!


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