Design Academy of Fashion Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning

Access may be achieved, in part, through the process of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Provision is made for prior learning to be recognised if a learner is able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes embedded in the relevant qualification.

Candidates must be able to demonstrate their fashion and design aptitude through submission of a CV, portfolio, interview, and knowledge and skills tests. Such competencies may help gain access to the program leading to entrance into this qualification, or advanced placement therein.

Credit Accumulation Transfer

Access may be achieved, in part, through the process of Credit Accumulation Transfer (CAT). Provision is made for the transferring of credits from another institution where the applicant has enrolled for a similar qualification but not completed the programme. CAT will be recognised if a learner is able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes embedded in the DAF qualification. Candidates must be able to demonstrate their fashion and design aptitude through submission of the detailed transcript of the incomplete qualification, a portfolio, an interview and skills tests. Such competencies may help gain access to the program leading to entrance into this qualification, or advanced placement therein.

Qualification Criteria

All courses contained in each programme must be successfully completed before a qualification will be awarded. There are two electives in the third year of the Diploma. Learners must pass the previous level before they can advance to the next level in the Diploma. If a learner fails a course they will need to re-register and repeat the specific course the following year, for a maximum of two theory subjects. In order to pass a course, learners must achieve at least 50%. Credits will be transferred to a learner once they have successfully completed the course.

Fee Structure

The course fee is inclusive of the registration fee. Registration must be paid annually, on acceptance of the portfolio for the 1st year learner applicants and on a pre-determined registration date for the 2nd and 3rd year learners.

Student fee payment options include:

Full payment on or before the 18 December prior to the academic year receives a less 8% discount.
Full payment on or before the 31 January of the academic year receives a less 5% discount.
Discounted rates are only valid with proof of payment being received for payment made within the allocated timeframe.
Half-yearly basis (payments to be made by the 31st January and 31st July)
Quarterly basis (payments to be made on or before the commencement of the new/next term)
Monthly payments (10 months) include an R100 administration fee.

If payment is made later than the due date for half and quarterly rates, the payee shall have 5 days to remedy the situation. In the event that payment or proof of payment is not received within 5 days, a letter of suspension will be issued to the learner. Suspension bars the learner from class attendance at the institution and progress reports and/ or diplomas will not be awarded until such time as the student’s account is paid.

Registered students may cancel their registration before the 1st of January of the year for which they are registered. Cancellation must be made in writing to the Directors. In the event that a learner registers after the 1st of January, they will have until the 31st of January to cancel their enrolment at DAF, after which they will be liable for the full year’s fees for which they are registered.

In all cases, applicants will forfeit the registration fee.

Student Support Services

Learner representatives are elected by their peers on an annual basis and the Learner Representative Committee is governed by the learners and acts as an independent voice. DAF encourages communication by supporting open and transparent channels of feedback.

The learner representative council is responsible to keep a record of any grievances learners might have. These will be brought before the Quality committee who will then address any pressing issues as well as make provision for any long-term decisions to be made. Learner Grievances will be recorded in the minutes as well as in the Quality Assurance forms filled in twice a year. The Academic Support Unit deals with any academic-related issues that a student may have. This includes any support that the lecturers have identified whether for individual learners, or groups of learners. DAF is committed to encouraging healthy living in all aspects of student life. For this purpose, the Academic Support Unit is also responsible for making recommendations in cases of psychological or health issues that have been identified as a result of behaviour or information received via the student themselves or their parents. DAF will fully support any student who is diagnosed with health or psychological conditions as far as possible. DAF has access to a qualified Psychologist who will charge a minimal fee. In as far as possible, DAF will accommodate learners with disabilities.