Driving through the gates of Potchefstroom Academy transports you to a world that seems a world apart, nestled within the heart of our cherished town. We had the opportunity to sit with Anine Wallace, the CEO of Potchefstroom Academy, and Hannatjie Visagie, the Marketing Manager, who shared insights about this unique private tertiary institution.

Going back to the start

Founded in 1981 by Tina Scholtz, Potchefstroom Academy has evolved into a premier private higher education institution, offering specialised programs in Photography, Interior Design, Somatology, and various therapeutic studies. In 2003, it expanded by acquiring SAAHST (South African Academy for Hair and Skincare Technology) and career-enhancing short courses. Distinguished by a history of education for the last 43 years, the Academy's experienced staff provides stimulating, interactive, and industry-relevant education. Potchefstroom Academy prioritises future readiness, entrepreneurial skills, and community engagement, ensuring students are well-equipped for success. The establishment as a whole saw a need within the market where a ‘full-blown’ qualification in Project Management is needed, as a lot of tertiary institutions only offer it as a subject. All of their qualifications either integrate or compliment the existing courses and/or qualifications. Potchefstroom Academy is going and growing from strength to strength, as their students and personnel will concur.

In it for the long run

Potchefstroom Academy and SAAHST provide comprehensive full-time programs in both creative and practical domains. These qualifications range from Beauty Therapy to Business Management and various therapy disciplines. Due to the variety of courses on offer, Potchefstroom Academy is a perfect fit for both fresh high school graduates and individuals looking to shift careers. The academy offers eleven full-time qualifications, which includes Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Higher Education qualifications. This tertiary institution is a very good alternative for students looking to pursue a career within Business Management but who don’t meet the requirements to further their studies at a university. 

Short courses

The Academy presents an array of short courses aimed at boosting skills in sectors with high demand, positioning itself as an excellent option for those wishing to enhance their expertise or pivot their career paths. These courses span various interests, from beauty treatments (like makeup, nail care, massage, as well as more specialised subjects such as permanent makeup and microneedling) to computer skills, design, hair styling, image consulting, and key professional competencies like project management and effective communication. They serve as a perfect choice for individuals aiming to swiftly acquire practical skills and knowledge, bypassing the longer duration required for full-time education. Each course includes a mix of theoretical study and practical application, ensuring participants are well-prepared with the essential skills for success in their desired profession or business venture.

Student life is abuzz 

Being synonymous with Potchefstroom, the student life at Potchefstroom Academy is no different than that of any other tertiary institution. Around 300 students are currently attending the Academy and that number is increasing yearly. Housing options vary from on-site dormitories to nearby apartments, fostering a tight-knit student community. Centrally located in Potchefstroom, the Academy grounds ensure easy access to shopping centres, Impala and surrounding places of interest. The grounds also provide safe parking for hostel and private students alike. Campus life is enriched with social events, student exhibitions and sporting activities, ensuring a well-rounded academic and social experience. Potchefstroom Academy also hosted a holiday programme for prospective students, which was a huge success. “In one way or another, this programme had an influence on the students’ mindset”, Hannatjie said. 

Mission and Vision

Their [formally written] mission and vision can be found on the website, but Anine summarised it nicely: “To equip and establish entrepreneurs who plough back into the community.” Furthermore, the Academy strives to be the top private institution for entrepreneurs, and to help deliver services whilst giving back to the community.

Equipping students 

Every qualification incorporates practical hours, with the exception of hairdressing. Specifically for hairdressing, students must seek practical experience in a professional salon setting post-course. This requirement also extends to Project Management students, who are expected to acquire experience within a professional company to demonstrate their skills. For all other programs, practical and contact sessions are an integrated part of the course and qualifications.

Been there, done that

Lecturers at Potchefstroom Academy are experts in their respective fields, many of whom earned their qualifications from Potchefstroom Academy itself before choosing a path in tertiary education. A distinctive requirement for any lecturer at the Academy is to possess qualifications that exceed the level of those they teach, ensuring they are well-equipped to educate in their specific course or degree area. Beyond their academic credentials, several lecturers are active members of professional boards, such as the Employers’ Organisation for Hairdressing, Cosmetology, and Beauty (EOHCB), and participate in national and international competitions relevant to their specialties. A recent accolade adding to the Academy’s prestige is the golden status awarded to its Somatology and Cosmetology programs.

Sizes of the classes

The class sizes depend on the amount of students who enrolled for the course. The ‘theory classes’ host between 80 and 100 students per session, however the practical classes are much smaller. During these sessions, the students are divided into smaller groups where they get more personal attention from their lecturers and have the opportunity for one-on-one conversations. Contact classes create and provide an environment wherein the relationship between students and lecturers are built and strengthened.

Biggest challenges they face

Undoubtedly, the primary challenge for Potchefstroom Academy is the prevailing misconception about its educational scope. Many people initially believe the Academy specialises solely in hair and makeup, unaware of the diverse range of courses and qualifications it provides. Despite being founded by Tina Scholtz 43 years ago, the Academy has thrived as an independent entity. In honour of its founder, the students have affectionately named their cafeteria "Cantina." As a private institution, Potchefstroom Academy does not receive government funding and, consequently, is not accredited by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

What people don’t know about Potchefstroom Academy 

The courses on offer, the extent of the modern campus and the career opportunities the academy provides are only a few aspects that the public don’t know about. Another aspect the community might be oblivious to is the services they offer on campus. The wellness centre, professional photography studio and salon are all open to the public. 

Why Potchefstroom Academy?

Centrally located, the campus is designed to avoid the overwhelm of huge masses, instead fostering a close-knit community where individual attention in the classroom is a priority. The academy prides itself on offering accredited qualifications, backed by the profound knowledge of its lecturers. Students and lecturers alike engage in industry competitions, ensuring that graduates have a significant advantage and are highly sought after by employers who recognize the calibre of education and training provided. Many establishments prefer Potchefstroom Academy alumni, acknowledging the exceptional quality of the courses and qualifications.

Moreover, the academy boasts a global network of alumni who often refer new students, testament to its impactful education. Its graduates find remarkable opportunities worldwide, including working on ships, in large product houses, and in fields such as photography and cinematography for notable networks like KykNet, highlighting a wealth of success stories. Unique among institutions, Potchefstroom Academy is the only one qualified to present certain specialised courses and subjects in therapy, further setting it apart as a leader in comprehensive and specialised education.

Open Day 2024

Join them for their Open Day on the 4th of May 2024. Contact them directly to book your spot: info@potchacademy.co.za or via WhatsApp on 072 880 4147

Johané van Dyk - Potchefstroom

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Showcasing their Skills