Occupational Certificate: School Principal
Lead schools with vision, integrity, and strategic excellence.
The Occupational Certificate: School Principal (NQF 6) offered by Dieta Solutions prepares educational leaders to navigate the complex responsibilities of managing schools in South Africa’s evolving education landscape. From curriculum oversight to financial planning and stakeholder engagement, this qualification equips you with the leadership, governance, and operational skills to drive academic excellence and institutional growth.
Accreditation & Recognition
Key Outcomes:
- QCTO Accreditation Number: 07-QCTO/SDP160625165146
- Qualification Title: Occupational Certificate: School Principal
- NQF Level: 6
- SAQA ID: 101258
- Minimum Credits: 285
- Accreditation Period: 13 June 2025 – 12 June 2030
- Accredited Campus: Lane and Kruin Street, Harmelia Extension, Isando, Germiston, Johannesburg, Gauteng, 1619
All qualifications in our programmes are accredited with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and are aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Fees & Funding
Programme Fee
- Detailed fee breakdown available on request or via our website.
Payment Plans
- Interest-free instalments to suit your cash flow.
Funding Options
- Utilise your employer’s SETA levy grants; we assist with application.
- Private bursaries and merit-based scholarships available.
What You'll Learn?
Key Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this 240-credit programme, you will be able to:
Provide visionary leadership to schools, aligning culture with academic and social goals.
Manage curriculum implementation in line with national education policies.
Oversee financial planning, budgeting, and school resource allocation.
Lead staff recruitment, development, and performance management.
Engage stakeholders including parents, school boards, and communities.
Implement governance and compliance frameworks to meet regulatory requirements.
Drive school improvement plans based on data analysis and evaluation metrics.
Manage risk, conflict, and change within educational environments.
Curriculum Structure
Delivered over 12–18 months (part-time), the curriculum comprises the following core modules:
| Module | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Educational Leadership & Governance | Principles of school leadership, ethics, governance frameworks |
Curriculum Planning & Oversight | National Curriculum Statements, academic performance management |
| Human Resource Management | Recruitment, appraisal, staff development, labour relations |
| Financial Management | Budgeting, resource allocation, compliance with financial regulations |
| Stakeholder Engagement | Parent communication, school governing body (SGB) collaboration |
| Policy & Compliance | Education legislation, safeguarding, quality assurance |
| Risk & Conflict Management | Mediation, conflict resolution, contingency planning |
| School Improvement Planning | Data-driven decision-making, performance monitoring |
| Change & Innovation in Education | Leading transformation, adopting new teaching technologies |
| Strategic Planning | Long-term vision, resource alignment, growth strategies |
| Community Partnerships | Building strong community networks to support learning |
| Integrated Capstone Project | Designing and defending a strategic school management plan |
Entry Requirements
Academic:
- National Senior Certificate (Grade 12) or equivalent
Experience (Recommended):
- Familiarity with corporate governance, risk management or audit functions
Language:
- Proficiency in English (reading, writing, speaking)
Equivalents and mature-age exemptions are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Learning & Delivery Model
Blended Learning:
- Face-to-Face Workshops at our Observatory Campus for interactive case studies and simulations.
- Online Portal with recorded lectures, readings and quizzes available 24/7.
Schedule
- Evening and weekend sessions tailored for working professionals.
Support
- One-on-one coaching, peer discussion forums and dedicated compliance mentors.
Assessment & Certification
Continuous Assessment
- Assignments, case studies and module quizzes.
Summative Assessment
- Final written examination and a comprehensive capstone project.
Certification
- On successful completion, you will receive the nationally recognised Occupational Certificate: Compliance Officer, issued under our QCTO accreditation.
Career Pathways
Graduates are equipped for roles such as:
- Compliance Analyst
- Risk and Compliance Officer
- Internal Audit Specialist
- Ethics and Governance Manager
- Regulatory Affairs Coordinator
Fees & Funding
- Programme Fee: Detailed fee breakdown available on request or via our website.
- Payment Plans: Interest-free instalments to suit your cash flow.
- SETA Funding: Leverage your employer’s skills levy grants; we assist with SETA application processes.
- Bursaries & Scholarships: Select private bursaries and merit-based awards available.
How to Apply
Apply with Confidence
For personalised guidance, email info@dietasolutions.co.za or call 079 412 6258.
01
Download
Download the Application Form from dietasolutions.co.za.
02
Submit
Submit certified copies of your ID and highest qualification.
03
Pay
the non-refundable registration fee to secure your spot.
04
Attend
an online orientation session to get started.
Ready to lead projects that make an impact?
Enrol today and transform your professional trajectory with Dieta Solutions.