Dr Andrew Golding, CE of the Pam Golding Property group seen with Michelle Keegan, head of training for Pam Golding Properties.
Originally launched in 2001, the Services Seta -accredited Pam Golding Academy has conducted ongoing training for all its agents and staff (a workforce of over 2000), and has seen more than 3000 external delegates attend the various training courses.
Now the Academy has created an on-line delivery platform which will enable anyone interested in becoming qualified as an agent to complete the NQF4 Real Estate qualification through a combination of on-line and face-to-face learning.
Says Dr Andrew Golding, CE of the Pam Golding Property group: “Today’s global trend is towards online learning as it enables the learner to complete the process in their own time and conveniently in their own environment.
“As South Africa and indeed Africa’s leading real estate agency we believe we have a responsibility and commitment to contribute towards the overall professionalism of the industry, and become the first independent real estate agency to offer this multi-faceted approach, combining both on-line and face-to-face tutoring.
“In so doing, we have partnered with the highly reputable and accredited Chartall Business College, which will manage the training experience and perform assessments, with the added advantage of valuable input from Pam Golding Properties’ years of experience and knowledge, which is now brought into the public domain for the benefit of all.”
Says Michelle Keegan, head of training for Pam Golding Properties: “We are now ready to accept registrations for the 12-month accredited NQF4 real estate qualification. Interested learners can contact Jo Raffino at the Pam Golding Academy (jo.raffino@pamgolding.co.za). Once courses open, they will have access to the new website, which will provide on-line forums, lectures and content in combination with face-to-face training in key locations nation-wide. This blend of learning will be supplemented with on-line support allowing learners to ask questions of experienced trainers. The Pam Golding Academy will also conduct face-to-face learning in various centres around the country for those learners who do not have access to the online offerings.
“This will enable aspirant estate agents to gain a significant ‘leg’ up the ladder and be in the ideal position of being able to start selling, and earning an income, sooner rather than later. Naturally, they will also need to acquire relevant on-the-job training to achieve their final qualification and be able to sign an offer or sole mandate agreement.
“We believe that the professional and specialised theoretical training new agents will acquire through this holistic process, will place them in good stead to be accepted into real estate agencies where they can receive practical on-the-job training and mentoring – and go on to succeed in the real estate industry,” she says.
“The benefits of on-line learning are numerous. Learners can proceed using their preferred sequence, which reduces learner stress, while the course administrator is able to monitor their learning journey. Social media platforms and the use of more traditional communication tools also ensure that the e-learner remains in constant contact with the provider and has access to support at all times.”
