There are many different coaching qualifications you can do. At the end of the day what you need to weigh up is how robust a foundation you’ll have. As well as what your accreditations and affiliations will be. Essentially, this means that not all coaching courses are equal. Therefore, ahead of committing to a course for your exciting new venture, here are things that you should be considering.
What are ICF Credentials?
The International Coaching Federation (ICF) sets standards for the coaching industry. They are an internationally recognised organisation. And their aim is to ensure that the coaching profession retains a high level of professionalism, expertise and standards. ICF credentials are awarded to coaches that have undergone stringent training and meet specific requirements. This results in a coach having an evaluated and known level of competency. Thereby showing the coach’s commitment to integrity, understanding and mastery of coaching and dedication to clients.
The ICF exists to lead the global advancement of the coaching profession.
ICF Mission Statement
Once qualified, ICF has a professional coaching network that accredited coaches can become members of. Being part of a viable coaching network ensures that you remain relevant within the coaching profession. It also provides you with access to continual education and growth opportunities. As well as can open up additional career doors and professional coaching opportunities.
Three ICF Credentials
- Associate Certified Coach (ACC): Completion of 60 hours of coach training and 100 hours of client coaching.
- Professional Certified Coach (PCC): 125 hours of coach training and 500 hours of coaching client experience.
- Master Certified Coach (MCC): Hold/have a PCC credential, completed 200 hours of coach training and have 2500 hours of client coaching experience.
What is COMENSA?
The Coaches and Mentors of South Africa (COMENSA) is a globally and SAQA-recognised non-profit organisation. They focus specifically on ensuring that coaching and mentoring in South Africa is of a high standard. Through ensuring adherence to ethical standards, implementation of best practices and continuous coaching education.
Where to Get a Recognised Coaching Qualification
Worldwide there are a number of affiliated learning institutions which can assist in your attaining an ICF accreditation. One of these is the South African School of Applied Psychology (SACAP). SACAP offers a number of ICF accredited coaching courses. Furthermore, they are also aligned with the Coaches and Mentors of South Africa (COMENSA).
There are 5 steps towards gaining an ICF credential:
Advantages of SACAP Coaching Qualifications
In order to be an excellent coach, one needs to understand what and why people do the things they do. Having a good understanding of the psychological reasons behind people’s behaviours and habits enables a coach more strategically work alongside clients. This can make the coaching journey more impactful and allow clients to have better insight into themselves. Thereby, being able to better leverage their inherent advantages and attain goals quicker.
SACAP coaching qualifications are grounded in Applied Psychology. They, therefore, give SACAP coaching graduates an inherent advantage within their qualifications. SACAP courses also incorporate practical experience (integrated learning) into coaching courses. This combination allows SACAP graduates to be marketplace relevant, equipped and ready from day one of entering the workforce.
One of the many advantages of studying coaching at SACAP is that the courses accommodate working professionals by design. Thus, classes are a combination of evening and intensive block sessions.
SACAP Coaching Courses:
Contact a SACAP admissions officer to find out more about attaining a locally and internationally recognised coaching qualification. Or apply online and be part of the next coaching cohort.
FAQ:
1. Why are SACAP Coaching Qualifications good?
SACAP Coaching Courses are accredited by ICF and aligned with COMENSA. This makes them both locally and internationally recognised.
2. Can you study coaching at SACAP while working?
Yes, SACAP coaching qualifications are designed with a working professional in mind. Therefore, they are a combination of evening and intensive block sessions.
3. Is an accredited coaching course worthwhile?
Yes, doing a recognised coaching qualification, through a reputable education institution, sets the right tone for your coaching career. It immediately provides you with credibility as well as the necessary foundation to succeed as a coach.
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