The office is currently being utilized as a satellite of the existing Wellington based CEFA offices to bring training closer to the Northern Cape communities in remote areas.   A close partnership agreement exists between CEFA and the Department of Social Services Government of the Northern Cape, in particular to serve the needs of communities in deep rural areas.  Currently the office serves as head quarters for the Social Auxiliary Work learnership that is run by Lead Coach Netta Smit.

Monica Myburg is the Co-ordinator for several short courses and skills programmes and more are planned for the coming year in an effort to make training more assessable for the people of the Northern Cape.  This office can be contacted at 054 3312974 during office hours.

At CEFA we understand that one does not always have the option to study full time and be away from family responsibilities.  From January 2010 CEFA provides you with the opportunity to do the Social Auxiliary Work training from your own home in South Africa.  How will this be possible?   Here are the answers to a few of the questions most frequently asked:

1.  What are the requirements of a decentralized learning programme?

As this is a program which includes workplace training, registration of learners are subject to the following:

• Learners need a minimum requirement of Grade 10 (proof in this regard need to be provided).
• The identification of a social worker who will be able to function as a mentor for the duration of the 2 year training program.
• Curriculum Vitae of the identified social worker.
• Proof of the social worker’s registration at the SA Council for Social Service Professions.
• Proof that the social worker’s registration has been paid for the current year
• A letter of consent stating the social worker’s availability en willingness to function as mentor and thus embark on this process with the learner (this will include the consent from the social worker’s employer) – “Responsibilities of a Mentor” (document to follow after finalization).
• Only when all the fore mentioned has been complied with and approved by CEFA, will the learner be registered on the program.

2.  What is the duration of the training programme?

• A (minimum) of 2 years (and a maximum of 4 years) is required to successfully complete the learning program
• Certain prerequisites are applicable for the registration of modules.  The modules build on each other and must be registered for in sequence (e.g. Modules 1, 2, 3 … etc.)

3.  Is this a registered training program?

• CEFA is an accredited Training Provider of the HWSETA.  All our training programmes are registered with the South African Qualifications Authority

4.  When can I apply?

The first Applications need to be completed before or on 9 June 2010. See also question 25 in this regard.

5.  What kind of certificate will I receive?A Further Education and Training (FET) Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work on NQF Level 4

6.  How many credits do I earn when completing this training programme and what modules does the training programme consists of?

7.  In which language will the training material be provided?

All our training programmes are available in English.

8.  Will I be able to receive recognition of prior learning (RPL)?

Yes, if you qualify.  Each application will be evaluated individually.

9.  What does the task of a Social Auxiliary Worker entail? Do you perhaps have an example of the job description of a Social Auxiliary Worker?

Yes, refer to the following guideline, as compiled by the South African Council for Social Service Professions (click here).

10.  How do I apply for this training programme?

• An application form can be obtained from our offices (or click here)

• Payments can be made electronically and / or bank deposits.  Payment documents to be emailed to ottod@hc.sun.ac.za or mailed to Ms Daleen Otto, PO Box 173, WELLINGTON, 7654.

• Use this checklist to ensure that all the necessary documents ACCOMPANY YOUR APPLICATION BY MAIL.
  

  Completed application form
  Your own CV.  Also indicate what you are currently doing
  The identification of a social worker who will be able to function as a mentor for the duration of the 2 year training program.
  Curriculum Vitae of the identified social worker.
  Proof of the social worker’s registration at the SA Council for Social Service Professions.
  Proof that the social worker’s registration has been paid for the current year.
  A letter of consent stating the social worker’s availability and willingness to function as mentor and thus embark on this process with the learner (this will include the consent from the social worker’s employer
  Deposit slip of application fee
  Three (3) original certified copies of your ID Three (3) original certified copies of your highes school qualification (either Grade 10 or Grade 12 Certificate) PLEASE NOTE: Three original certified copies means you: make 3 copies of the certificate or ID document take the copies together with the original Certificate/ID document to a commissioner of oath (e.g. a police station) he / she then certifies copies of the ID document Please POST the following to CEFA, PO BOX 173, WELLINGTON, 7654: 3 certified copies of the ID document 3 certified copies of your highest school qualification as well as; all documents as identified in the checklist above NO FAXED APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED

11.  How do I obtain the training material?

• The manuals will be provided at the contact session by the facilitator.

12.  How will learner support be provided?

• Your mentor will receive guidelines as how to assist you
• Friendly CEFA staff may be contacted telephonically or via e-mail
• Regular visits by facilitators are scheduled in your vicinity
• Facilitators will conduct contact sessions at the beginning of each block session at central venues. Your specific  town/city will be visited if 20 or more learners are registered for this particular program.

13.  Do I write exams – when and where?

• Yes – more or less 29 weeks after each contact block session
• Central examination venues will be identified and registered where exam papers will be written for every module

14.  Do I have to do assignments?

• Yes - every module comprises of 2 practical assignments.

15.  What about practical work?

• 70% of this qualification consists of practical work during which you will learn how to work with individuals, families, groups and communities – under the guidance and control of your mentor
• This adds up to more or less 16 – 19 hours of practical work at the organization per week.
• You need to provide proof that you are either function as a volunteer or are employed by a welfare organization.

LEARNERS HAVE TO PASS BOTH THE EXAMINATION AND PRACTICAL WORK IN ORDER TO PASS A MODULE

16.  How much will the training program cost?

The payment structure:

Application fee: R120  Payable with application (non-refundable)

Registration fee: R1,720  Payable by 23 July 2010 (non-refundable)

Programme Fee: R16,000

If you pay cash: R15,220  Payable before or on 31 July 2010

Other Payment Options are available on request and may be obtained from ottod@hc.sun.ac.za.

17.  Do I have to register at a Professional Council and what does it cost?

• It is compulsory for all student Social Auxiliary Workers  to be registered with the South African Council for Social Service Professions (SACSSP)

18. Do I register myself at the SACSSP?

• Fees for the first registration are included in the cost and we shall do the paperwork for you.  You will be registered with the Council as a learner social auxiliary worker for two years or upon receipt of your qualification, whichever comes first.  After that you will be responsible to register with the Council as a qualified social auxiliary worker.

19.  Which documents do I need to register with the SACSSP?

• Registration form of the Council
• 1 x Original certified copy of your ID document
• 1 x Original certified copy of your highest/school qualification

20. Do I have to register on the NLRD (National Learner Record Database)?

(Confirmation to follow)

21. Do I register myself on the NLRD?

(Confirmation to follow)

22.  Which documents do I need to register on the NRLD?

• Registration form – codes (SME codes) to complete the registration form can be obtained online (link to follow)
• 1 x Original certified copy of your ID document
• 1 x Original certified copy of your highest/school qualification

23. Is this an e-learning program?

There are 2 primary reasons why this is not an e-learning program:

• As CEFA strives to reach persons in urban as well as rural areas, we deemed it important to enable those who do not have access to the internet to participate in this journey to grow and develop.
• The Health and Welfare SETA requires learners to submit original documents in hard copy.

24. How will you know that I am interested in this training programme?

• Phone us and supply your details, or
• Complete and submit the enquiry document on the Contact Us Page (Yes, I am interested)
• Obtain an application form, complete it and send it to us on or before 9 June 2010.

25.  What happens after I have applied?

It is important that learners apply as soon as possible to ensure that all documentation are in place and fees paid.  The closing date for applications is 9 June 2010. Once the complete documentation is received by CEFA it is submitted to a section committee.  Selection takes place on a continuous basis and you will be informed soon afterwards, not later than 4 weeks of your application.

Why not become an Assessor in your field of expertise?

Your employer want to take on Learnerships?

They will need Workplace Assessors!

Attend our Assessor Training Course:

US 115753 Conduct Outcomes based Assessment

NQF Level 5 Credit value 15

Date: 2 – 6 Augustus 2010

Venue: 61 Church Street WELLINGTON

Cost : Only R 3 600.00

Contact us to book your seat – LIMITED Availability

and complete the attached Registration Form

Paresh Lala 051-4475882 or 078 283 4386

Or Liezl van der Westhuizen 021 873 3998

Social Auxiliary Work Training Program in Free State Province

The Department of Social Development, Free State Province, appointed CEFA as Service Provider to train 56 learners and 25 mentors in the Free State Province.  The Department sponsors the training as well as the boarding and lodging of the learners when they gather in Bloemfontein for the theoretical training sessions during the different training cycles.

A Community Well-Being Situation Analysis forms part of this training programme.  Please read more about this at this link.

• Social Auxiliary Work
• Community Development: HIV and AIDS Support
• Fundamentals for Child and Youth Care Work
• Developmental Social Work (short course)
• Mentoring and Coaching (short course)
• Victim Empowerment (short course)
• Leadership Development (short course)

Click on the links, or read more for more info on these courses

SOCIAL AUXILIARY WORKER

DEFINITION & SCOPE
A Social Auxiliary Worker is:

• dedicated to the social welfare of people as a key element of human development;
• an essential support for the social worker in assisting with all preventative and social care tasks;
• a good listener, with strong empathy for others, who can match up human needs with practical solutions within community and national structures and resources;
• able to empower people to help themselves to achieve to the best of their capabilities within an effective understanding of their communities and the world around them;
• an interventionist at grass roots level in communities, guided by and expanding the scope and effectiveness of professional Social Workers;
• an effective contributor to research and development in the enhancement of social welfare.

In today’s increasingly slewed development of world economies, job insecurity, manmade and natural disasters, climate change, hunger and disease, social auxiliary work begins with poverty eradication. From a low base of hunger and despair the social auxiliary worker helps those in need – from child to adult – to cope first with the brickbats that life throws at them, then to grow in hope, to lift themselves up in the world – and empower them to build their communities and societies and uplift others.

QUALIFICATION
Within a wide variety of legal and socio-economic frameworks around the world the regulation of – and the qualifications for – social auxiliary work both vary from the highly defined and professional to the non-existent. International standards under UN auspices are a goal to be achieved. Training and qualification should be via both classroom teaching and in-the-field employment engagement, together with follow-up mentoring and assessment; it will encompass knowledge and understanding – combined with practical application – of:

From a common formal qualification base the social auxiliary worker will go on to specialize in one or more elective areas of child and youth care, child and family life, older persons, drug abuse, community development, victim empowerment, correctional services, disabilities – and chronic illness.

Registration: SAW SAQA ID 23993: SAW SAQA

Web link: http://regqs.saqa.org.za/viewQualification.php?id=23993

VICTIM EMPOWERMENT

DEFINITION & SCOPE
In current society basic standards such as respect, courtesy and consideration have become distorted and disdained. As a result, transgression of interpersonal boundaries is endemic in many parts of the world, with crime victimisation a major social problem that leaves in its wake much suffering and trauma. Victim Empowerment is about enabling survivors and their families to live with the impacts of violence and criminal victimisation, and to develop life anew.

In addressing the cycle of violence victim empowerment is also a crime prevention strategy that contributes to strengthening the Criminal Justice System; supported victims are better able to cooperate with those who are trying to empower them.

Victim Empowerment is a developing sector in the field of human development, with widely varying degrees of regulation, or even recognition that there is a need. Many victims of crime and violence either do not receive any treatment or do not receive what they need. Reasons include the limited number of mental health professionals, lack of accessible mental health services – particularly in rural areas, inaccessibility to criminal justice systems, concerns about stigmatisation, fear of retribution, as well as the fact that survivors can be re-traumatised through insensitive handling.

QUALIFICATION
In practice victim empowerment encompasses many activities. People working and/or volunteering in community projects, through NGOs and church groups, often provide such services in their communities without formally recognised training or qualifications. Despite their considerable experience and insight, they are unable to gain access to training, qualifications and career paths in victim empowerment and related sub-fields which would assist them in being far more effective. Worldwide there is a need to standardise and co-ordinate activities in order to ensure successful implementation and measurable achievement.

A standard approach to victim empowerment training and professional qualification is needed, backed by well researched case studies that will inform good trauma intervention and -management practice. The underlying philosophy is one of public health, social justice and a developmental approach in which violence and crime are considered to be complex social problems rather than simply legal matters. Emphasis is placed on the need for community development, advocacy, prevention and early interventions, together with multi-disciplinary and multi-agency cooperation. Resourcefulness and resilience of individuals are important elements, together with a restorative justice philosophy and practices.

Training and qualifications for victim empowerment practitioners should be through both classroom teaching and in-the-field engagement, backed by real life case studies, together with follow-up mentoring and assessment. Qualities needed by practitioners include:

• an ability to listen to the victim, with the wisdom and perspicacity to hear what he or she is really saying;
• a capacity to match victim needs with practical solutions networked within community and national structures and resources – including the public health and justice systems;
• intuitive understanding of how best to guide victims into developing their lives anew, accessing and coordinating support and key services where necessary;
• an ability to contribute effectively to research and development in the enhancement of effective victim empowerment procedures.

TRAINING IS BASED ON CEFA CORE VALUES OF:

• leadership in the field of providing top quality empowerment education and training to learners;
• the belief that education and training are the keys to human development in contributing to the quality of life of communities;
• equipping learners with the necessary knowledge, skills and values to become highly qualified self-reliant Victim Empowerment practitioners.

Qualifications will include knowledge, understanding and practical application of:

Management

• Public health input and social justice principles in planning, coordination and implementation of victim empowerment initiatives and programmes.
• Networking and an inter-sectoral and multi-disciplinary approach to victim empowerment services within the public health framework.
• Strategic partnerships which fully incorporate the responsibilities, skills and methods of other role players.
• Organisational strategies in establishing and maintaining media relations – so as to maximise the benefits of media engagement in victim empowerment interventions.
• Accessing, coordination and utilisation of key resources and service providers in effective referral of clients, service delivery, information feedback and reporting.
• Cooperative and coordinated management of volunteers in service delivery.

Field Work

• Social crime prevention programmes in the context of victim empowerment – with reference to youth at risk, child abuse and gender violence.
• Understanding the context and impact of serious violent crime in programme planning, coordination and implementation in support of victims.
• Application of the principles, processes and requirements of support services in a structured environment under qualified supervision.
• Rationale, purpose, principles, concepts and limitations of victim support, together with the role and responsibilities of victim support workers.
• Application of appropriate interpersonal, interviewing and referral skills in determining clients’ needs, together with provision of support and facilitation of access to other services.
• Burn out and secondary trauma risk reduction strategies and practices.

Environment

• The roles, characteristics and functioning of the components of the Criminal Justice System in relation to victim empowerment and community development interventions.
• Compiling community profiles, safety-audits and needs assessments in planning and facilitating victim empowerment services with identified strategic partners.
• Description, review and coordination of strategies to inform individuals and communities about crime, victimisation and HIV / AIDS in a victim empowerment organisation.
• Conducting advocacy and fundraising campaigns, workshops and training in target communities to provide community development interventions in victim empowerment.

Planning & Reporting

• Coordination of team members, Victim Empowerment programmes, interventions, and activities in respect of personal, religious and cultural differences of all participants.
• Assistance in the planning and execution of research in Victim Empowerment using appropriate methodology.
• Assistance in the planning, preparing and conducting of Victim Empowerment training and development interventions to meet identified needs of individuals and communities.
• Compiling, verifying and distributing reports on Victim Empowerment programmes, interventions, research, campaigns and activities, with identified information sources.

To enhance the scope and quality of victim empowerment (VE) services and provide VE service providers with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide direct services and coordinate VE programmes in their organization.

Registration: Victim Empowerment SAQA ID 49872: V/E SAQA

Web link: http://regqs.saqa.org.za/viewQualification.php?id=49872

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: HIV / AIDS SUPPORT

DEFINITION & SCOPE
Addressing the affliction of HIV / AIDS and its many associated problems is of high priority in self empowerment through continuing education. Individuals, families and communities need to know and understand the nature of the impact of HIV / AIDS and its related problems, particularly on vulnerable communities – and how best to provide remedial action and support. Such understanding and action capability are the purpose of this qualification.

Training is aimed at empowering health workers, both lay and professional, who find themselves in the frontline of interfacing with HIV / AIDS afflicted – and often under-resourced – communities.

QUALIFICATION
Qualifying learners will be able to inform, educate and counsel communities about the HIV/AIDS pandemic and related problems through a thorough knowledge and understanding of:

• the communities within which those living with HIV/AIDS find themselves;
• how best to communicate with all members of those communities;
• adult learning processes in continuing education;
• how to communicate new information and understanding in order to bring about both necessary and beneficial changes in personal and community behaviour;
• human behaviour in achieving emotional and physical support for those in distress;
• the principles and practices of personal and community sanitation, with ability to initiate improvements in this area;
• causes and effects of life threatening conditions, with particular reference to HIV/AIDS.

Based on the CEFA core values of field leadership, human development through education and training, together with necessary knowledge equipment, each learner will be taught the skills needed to work both as a team member and as a provider of support services within a multidisciplinary health care team.

Registration: Community Development: HIV/AIDS Support SAQA ID 58396:

C/D: HIV/AIDS SAQA

Web link: http://regqs.saqa.org.za/viewQualification.php?id=58396

Prospectus 2009

Prospectus 2010

One focus is on empowering people to become entrepreneurs and masters of their own destinies.  Included in the collective membership and achievements of that team are:

• A professor and former university Development Studies Head of Department.
• A university Associate Professor in Psychology.
• Doctorates and degrees in Literature and Philosophy.
• Higher Education and Postgraduate Diplomas in Early Childhood Development (ECD).
• Academic journals and prescribed reading articles and books on development.
• Documents, broadcasts and articles on Victim Empowerment, diversity training, workplace gender and sexual orientation.
• Workshops facilitation in community and early childhood development and social work.
• 10 years in the South African Police (SAPS), mostly heading Psychological Support Services.
• 25 years ECD teaching at a school for children with special needs.
• Development of a boxed portable ECD training kit and manual.
• Community development, social work and research.
• Youth work, ECD, leadership and community development.
• Development (in South Africa) of the NQF Level 4 Qualification for ECD Practitioners.
• Participation, as member of the SAQA Standards generating Body for Victim Empowerment, in the development of related qualifications.
• Facilitation and training on substance abuse, statutory services, institutional management and HIV/AIDS.
• Trauma therapy, -counselling and -debriefing.

Very few of the many facilitators and assessors engaged in training since 2004 have less than 10 years experience; many have 20 – 30 years; two have over 40 years.

Social Auxiliary Work and Social Work are acknowledged as being essential in addressing these priority social needs.  Social Auxiliary Work and Social Work are in the frontline of social development and transformation, particularly in traditionally under-resourced communities. The need for Social Auxiliary Workers in South Africa was identified more than 10 years ago, leading to the role and functions of Social Auxiliary Work being defined in the Regulations of the Social Service Professions Act, 1978 (No 110 of 1978). These Regulations define Social Auxiliary Work as “an act or activity practiced by a Social Auxiliary Worker under the guidance and control of the Social Worker and as a supporting service to a Social Worker to achieve the aims of Social Work”.

This implies that Social Auxiliary Workers are assistants to Social Workers, providing support services and working under the guidance and supervision of Social Workers. Social Auxiliary Work complements and supports Social Work in all focus areas with services to individuals, families, groups and communities.

In order to provide this assistance and support to the social work team, a qualification in Social Auxiliary Work and registration with the SA Council for Social Service Professions are necessary (Re: SAQA QUAL ID: 23993).

CEFA’s newest training contract is with the Department of Social Services in the Northern Cape.  Learnership training will be conducted with70 learners from Upington, Kuruman and De Aar.  This training project started in 2009.