Proof reader

The purpose of this part-qualification is to prepare a learner to function as a Proof-reader. Proof-readers edit and proofread the contents of publications according to the relevant style, the editorial policy, and other publishing requirements by paying attention to detail and applying language skills when interpreting a brief and editing and proofreading text. A qualified learner will be able to: • ensure that grammar, syntax, and spelling are correct. • ensure that the established style for a book is followed and that the book's language is suitable and understandable to the readers.

Proofreading is an essential part of the writing process. It ensures the effectiveness of the writing style and the clarity of ideas. Skipping proofreading lowers the quality of the textbook. In South Africa, awareness of career options in editing and proofreading is limited, and proofreading is perceived to be language-oriented, even though the industry can be accessed from various other fields (e.g., science and mathematics). Access into the industry is limited. Few institution-based training opportunities are available at this level as most learning takes place on the job and through informal mentoring. In-house training is scarce and the responsibility for training lies with proof-readers and editors themselves. The publishing industry is experiencing transformation created by changes in technology; because of moving from printed matter to digital matter; and thus, requires new skills and training. The proofreading and editing functions are generally outsourced to freelancers and this creates more jobs in the sector. Therefore, there is a need for the Occupational Certificate: Proof-reader. Similar part-qualifications registered on the NQF, other than the one used for horizontal articulation, have expired as of June 2021 and therefore are no longer relevant. The industry is racially skewed. This part-qualification will offer a variety of benefits to society, the industry, and learners, including: • Opening the industry. • Creating possibilities for careers to previously disadvantaged. • Creating employment for new-generation job seekers. • Creating business opportunities. • Supporting entrepreneurs and enabling them to develop their own businesses. The society and economy of South Africa will benefit from this part-qualification since it is aimed at all official languages, thereby furthering the production of materials and communication in indigenous languages, and broadening readership. It supports legislation promoting indigenous languages in South Africa. Mostly, proof-readers work as freelance entrepreneurs, or find formal employment within publishing houses, government departments in the business and corporate communication field and educational sector, or at legal institutions. They will be employed as management editors, project editors, language, and media practitioners. This part-qualification is suitable for qualified learners, those changing careers and those already in editing without formal part-qualifications. Persons with a higher certificate in any field trying to develop marketable skills can enrol for this part-qualification. Industry bodies consulted included amongst others, the South African Book Development Council; Publishers Association of South Africa; Professional Editors Guild; and Language and Media Practitioners of South Africa. There is no professional registration needed to function as a Proof-reader. The Occupational Certificate: Proof-reader is derived from the Occupational Certificate: Text Editor and provides appropriate competencies at an appropriate exit point, enabling learners to find employment.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) RPL for Access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result. RPL for Access to the Part-qualification • Learners will gain access to the part-qualification through RPL for Access as provided for in the QCTO RPL Policy. RPL for access is conducted by accredited education institution, skills development provider or workplace accredited to offer that specific qualification/part qualification. • Learners who have acquired competencies of the modules of a qualification or part qualification will be credited for modules through RPL. RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result. Entry Requirements The minimum entry requirement for this part-qualification is: • NQF Level 5 qualification.

• Pay attention to detail and apply language skills when interpreting a brief and editing text.
• Pay attention to detail and apply language skills when interpreting a brief and proofreading text.