Facilitator FAQ

What is a Facilitator?

The word "facilitator" has been diluted because so many people call themselves "facilitators" - teachers, contractors, moderators, etc. The dictionary definition is, "one who makes easier" and is so broad that it fits a wide spectrum of functions.

What is a Group Facilitator?

A Group Facilitator is one that has been well-trained in "how to" design effective processes, manage discussions, work with difficult participants, and guide groups to consensus. This is a highly skilled job.

Is the Facilitator course accredited?

Yes. This Facilitator Training Course is accredited and endorsed by the ETDP Seta (Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority). Delegates meeting the requirements for this course also earn credits towards a National Qualification.

You many qualify for recognition of your prior learning (RPL).

The Unit Standard
Title: Facilitate learning using a variety of methodologies
ID: 117871
NQF level: 5
Credits: 10

How can I get started as a facilitator?

  • Qualify yourself as a facilitator.  (Exe coach can assist with this)

  • Clarify your preferred areas of specialisation and be sure of where your passion lies.

  • Build up a solid and growing body of knowledge in your areas of specialisation.

  • Consider the commercial slant: Who might pay me to present classes in these subjects or facilitate workshops in these areas of learning?

  • Respond to ads, search for opportunities, and apply continuously for posts.

  • Do some free stuff initially to build your confidence and establish your reputation. 

What is the role of the facilitator?

Facilitators teach, that is the primary objective of being a facilitator. The facilitator training course is designed to teach the prospective facilitator to understand the function of communication through exploring its processes.

The facilitator training course will teach you a variety of given methodologies that you will need as a facilitator.

To match the type of communication with the appropriate method and understanding how to elicit input from the learners and create an interactive classroom environment, where learners engage with the facilitator and each other in development practices while developing awareness of how effective non-verbal messages are communicated. The facilitator training course will teach you these skills that are required.

What is distinctive about a facilitator?

There are lots of different uses to the word facilitator and sometimes the role gets confused with other similar roles.:

  • Facilitators use tools and processes to help all voices be heard and to support groups to decide what action they want to take
  • Trainers deliver content so that you get the knowledge, skills and behaviours so need
  • Consultants give advice and recommendations so that groups achieve results

Centre for Facilitation's expertise is in facilitating events that get you talking to other people and working out what you want to do and the best way to do this. We create a level playing field so whatever your skill, background or experience you can talk to others easily about what needs to be done, sharing ideas and making some brilliant plans. Read a recent example of our inclusive approach

  • We also offer consultancy if your organisation wants to develop better ways of engaging with people
  • We facilitate focus group, consultations or can conduct evaluations of your service delivery.

How to define methods?

According to the dictionary, methodological approaches are often a guideline system for solving a problem, and include specific components e.g., stages and jobs, procedures techniques or tooling.

This program aims primarily at developing participants’ awareness skills in a professional manner by using a variety of given methodologies. The education training and development course helps the facilitator present lessons in an effective, entertaining, dynamic, effective, and interactive way.

How to define methods?

According to the dictionary, methodological approaches are often a guideline system for solving a problem, and include specific components e.g., stages and jobs, procedures techniques or tooling.

This program aims primarily at developing participants’ awareness skills in a professional manner by using a variety of given methodologies. The education training and development course helps the facilitator present lessons in an effective, entertaining, dynamic, effective, and interactive way.

What do facilitators do?

Facilitators teach. But in a very specialised way. Their classes are typically busy, relaxed, participative affairs where it looks as if everyone is having a good time while learning. Instead of fear and stress you will see a quiet confidence and energy. Some say: “Facilitators don’t teach! They create easy ways for others to learn and remember!”

Would I be a good facilitator?

  • Do you dream of teaching others?
  • Do you love the idea of running a class?
  • Did you play teacher as a kid?
  • Does sharing your knowledge with others give you a thrill?
  • Do you love working with people?
  • Would you do it even f the money was at times non-existent or modest?
  • Do you get a kick out of seeing another person “get it”?

Sure, this is not scientific, but a number of yes answers suggest you may be a facilitator waiting to emerge.

This Facilitator Training Course is accredited and endorsed by the ETDP Seta (Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority). Delegates meeting the requirements for this course earn credits towards a National Qualification.

Why train as a facilitator?

  • As a facilitator, you will do important work. You will teach people. Your Zoom or live classes typically will be busy, relaxed, participative affairs where it looks as if everyone is having a good time while learning.
  • Instead of fear and stress, you and your participants will enjoy a growing confidence and energy.
  • Learners will say of you: “You hardly teach. You create easy ways for us to learn and remember!”

Why train with us?

If you have a dream to be a trainer, or if you are already in training, you may find our advice, support, and career path information helpful. For 22 years, we have been passionate about our learners. We would also love to work with you till you arrive at the place you want to be.     

Like others, you may enjoy the plain English and easy to follow materials we use.

Now! In addition to qualifying as a Facilitator, you will also qualify as a Dispersed   Learning Facilitator. That means you will qualify to train people online on platforms like Zoom.

Is there work for Facilitators?  

A: Yes, in all industries!
Options may include:

A work-related area / client service / health and safety / leadership/sales / management / finance / legal / hospitality/ life skills / HIV / Aids / gender-based study areas / advocacy / ethics /personal growth / goal setting / spiritual / entrepreneurship / animals / volunteerism / wildlife / guiding / community gardening / food security / team building / make up / dressing professionally / food / cooking / a trade, etc.)

When is the next Facilitator course?

Your starting time depends on you! Kindly send your enquiry and we will work with you to create a schedule built on you and your needs.  

Can a facilitator teach anything?

No. Facilitators need to know their subject area.

A typical conversation goes like this: “So you want to be a Facilitator/Trainer/Teacher? “

Answer: “Yes, that’s my dream!”

Me: “So which subjects do you want to Facilitate/Train/Teach? “

Answer:” It doesn’t matter.  Anything!”

This simply means the enquirer needs to think more about their area of expertise, or passion.

Options may include:

A work-related area / client service / health and safety / leadership/sales / management / finance / legal / life skills / HIV / Aids / gender-based study areas / advocacy / personal growth / goal setting / spiritual / entrepreneurship / animals / volunteerism / wildlife / guiding / community gardening / food security / team building / make up / dressing professionally / food / cooking / a trade, etc.

I can’t leave my job, so how can I start as a facilitator?

  • No need to leave your job.
  • Make yourself known at work as the one who teaches new people.
  • Share ways you find for making work easier and quicker.
  • Be modest, don’t force yourself on others, and train in a soft, mature, adult way without ever being loud, bossy or a show off.
  • Volunteer and start teaching in your community, club, church, children’s school etc.   Do it for free to get you going.

What qualifications do I need to become a facilitator?

Applicants must be proficient in a learning area to receive training. No prior assessment experience will be required. Candidates must have evaluation knowledge in their intended field of study.

What is a facilitator course?

The facilitator course will teach you facilitation skills to enable you to facilitate learning using a diverse methodology approach. You will learn how to prepare professional presentations, how to use a training room effectively and using different learning styles when teaching.

How long is a facilitator course?

The average duration for the facilitator course is three months. This time limit is not set in stone and because adult learners are mostly employed the course may take longer to complete. The facilitator course forms part of a national qualification.

How do I become a facilitator?

To become a facilitator, you will require an accredited facilitator course. The course is done through self-study and face-to-face or online training sessions. You are required to complete a portfolio of Evidence which is used to declare you as competent. The facilitator course carries 10 credits on the national qualification framework. Once you have received your statement of results from the SETA you may register as a facilitator.

Hupernikao Warriors Training is “generic Facilitator’s training” course is meant to equip learners to use the necessary knowledge and skills to facilitate the teaching using various methodologies and tools.

It will help you understand the National Qualifications Framework, develop skills in the education training and development sector and learn the best training and development practices.

What is a Learner Facilitator?

A Learner Facilitator is a professional person who accompanies and supports a child with special needs in a mainstream or special school, to facilitate the learning process for the specific child in order for the child to optimise their learning and educational experience.

A trained facilitator is equipped to manage difficult and disruptive behaviours and teach the child in his/her learning environment more appropriate and positive alternative behaviours.

Social skills training forms an integral part of the Learner Facilitator's function. (Please also see the page: "The Role of the Learner Facilitator")