About this Course

Salary structuring is far more than a question of how much to pay someone — it sits at the intersection of organisational strategy, labour legislation, tax law, collective bargaining, and workforce equity. Poorly designed pay structures lead to employee dissatisfaction, industrial disputes, tax non-compliance and talent attrition.

This course provides a comprehensive and practical guide to the types of salary structures used in South Africa and globally. It equips learners with a clear understanding of the theoretical foundations, design mechanics and real-world applications of each model, from traditional narrow-graded systems and modern broad-banding approaches to total package (CTC) structuring, competency-based bands, hybrid models, pay ranges, notching systems and geographical differentials.

With a strong focus on real-world application, the course examines how legislation — including the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, Employment Equity Act, Labour Relations Act, National Minimum Wage Act and the Income Tax Act — shapes remuneration decisions in practice. Case studies drawn from the South African public service, mining, banking, retail and construction sectors, as well as global examples from the US, UK and multinational technology firms, bring each model to life.

By the end of the course, learners will be able to confidently design, evaluate and communicate salary structures that are equitable, competitive, legislatively compliant and fit for purpose.

Learning Objectives

After successful completion of this course, you should be able to demonstrate the following competencies:

• Explain the purpose and rationale of salary structures and compare the main types — narrow-graded, broad-band, total package (CTC), hybrid, competency-based and geographical differential models — in terms of their design, flexibility, transparency and administrative requirements.
• Design and apply narrow-graded and broad-band pay structures, including establishing grades through job evaluation, setting salary ranges and progression rules, and explaining how broadbanding supports flexibility and market responsiveness.
• Construct a total package (cost-to-company) statement, allocating the full employment cost between cash salary, retirement fund contributions, medical aid, allowances and variable pay, and explain the tax and equity implications of each component.
• Design a hybrid salary structure that combines two or more pay models to meet the needs of diverse employee groups, balancing equity, flexibility, union acceptance and market competitiveness.
• Explain how competency-based pay bands link pay progression to demonstrated skills and behaviours, and describe how these systems support talent retention, continuous learning and organisational strategy.
• Calculate and interpret pay ranges and notching systems, defining range spreads appropriate to different job levels and linking progression rules to performance, tenure or collective bargaining agreements.
• Identify common payroll compliance risks, such as incorrect tax treatment, late submissions or weak internal controls and implement practical measures to mitigate these risks.
• Maintain accurate payroll records and audit trails, ensuring all transactions are properly documented and can withstand audits or inspections by regulators.
• Interpret and apply payroll legislation in practical scenarios, enabling informed decision-making and problem-solving in real-world payroll situations.

Course Delivery, Duration and Effort

SA Accounting Academy delivers this online short learning programme. This course is divided into 9 chapters. In this way, you can maintain a work-life balance while studying a just-in-time course to upskill yourself. 

Is this for you?

This course is ideally suited for payroll administrators, HR professionals, bookkeepers, accountants, tax practitioners and business owners who are required to calculate and manage employees' tax obligations. It is particularly valuable for:

• Payroll clerks and administrators who process monthly payroll.
• HR managers and practitioners responsible for employee compensation.
• Bookkeepers and accountants who assist clients with PAYE compliance.
• Tax practitioners who advise employers on their withholding obligations.
• Small business owners and entrepreneurs who manage their own payroll.
• Financial managers and compliance officers overseeing payroll processes.

Lecturer

Ruzel van Jaarsveld

Ruzel van Jaarsveld is a finance professional, business consultant and learning specialist with over 28 years of experience across bookkeeping, payroll, VAT, PAYE, management accounts, eFiling and Human Resources. As a qualified Skills Development Facilitator and experienced Financial Facilitator, she has designed and delivered practical financial workshops nationally for entrepreneurs, business owners and corporate finance teams, and is recognised for her ability to translate complex financial concepts into clear, actionable guidance.

Her areas of focus include tax optimisation, business development and online sales and marketing. Ruzel combines technical expertise with a practical, client-centred approach, making her a trusted resource for individuals and organisations seeking confident, solutions-focused financial support.

Prerequisites / Admission Requirements

This course is open to any person who works in, or intends to work in, a payroll, HR, accounting, or tax environment. The following are recommended prerequisites:

· Basic understanding of the South African income tax system.

· Familiarity with general payroll concepts (advantageous but not required).

· Ability to work with basic calculations and financial figures.

· Access to a computer with internet connectivity for online learning.

Assessments

This course includes formative assessments to test your knowledge throughout the modules. Learners must achieve all competencies of the course.

Assessment and Certification

On successful completion (i.e., competence in all modules) of this course the learners will be awarded:

• Certificate of Completion from SA Accounting Academy

Curriculum

Modules:

• Module 1: Narrow-Graded Pay Structures
• Module 2: Broad-Band Salary Structures
• Module 3: Total Package Structuring (CTC)
• Module 4: Case Studies in Salary Structures
• Module 5: Real-Life Salary Structures & SA Legislation
• Module 6: Hybrid Salary Structures
• Module 7: Pay Ranges and Notching
• Module 8: Competency-Based Pay Bands
• Module 9: Geographical Pay Differentials

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 ICB 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 course. Our fee is an all-inclusive investment in your future.

The course fee is R 590.00 and consists of:

Educational Resources

• Online Materials: Access a wealth of online resources, from e-books to tutorial videos, enhancing your learning experience.

Learning Support

• Facilitation: Benefit from expert-led facilitation sessions that offer personalised 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.

Flexibility and Convenience

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

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.

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 590.00

Payment Terms

Payments

• Minimum payments must be made via direct EFT or credit card before a course 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 course start date:
  • No fee if cancelled more than 10 working days prior.
  • 100% fee if cancelled less than 10 working days prior.
• Non-refundable items include course application fees and modules that were accessed.

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.

Corporate Training Solutions

At SA Accounting Academy, we recognise 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 prioritise hands-on learning, ensuring your team can immediately apply their newfound knowledge in practical scenarios.

Interested in a bespoke corporate training experience? Reach out to us at corporate@accountingacademy.co.za or call 010 593 0466. Together, let's design a training program that elevates your team's capabilities and aligns with your organisational goals.

Contact Us

Ready to elevate your expertise? Enrol now and embark on a transformative learning journey with SA Accounting Academy.

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

• Online chat through our website https://accountingacademy.co.za
• WhatsApp: Start chatting (+27635026114)
• Phone: 010 593 0466
• E-mail: support@accountingacademy.co.za

To register for this course: click here.