top of page

What is a Professional Body?

A Professional Body is an organisation that represents and supports the interests of a specific profession. It is responsible for setting the benchmark for ethical conduct, industry standards, professional development, and public trust. In South Africa, professional bodies may be formally recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) under the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Act, which defines their roles, functions, and responsibilities in the national system.

SA AIA as a Professional Body

The South African Adventure Industry Association (SA AIA) is in the process of registering as a SAQA-recognised Professional Body for two distinct occupational sectors:

  1. Adventure Tourist Guides

  2. Adventure-Based Learning and Outdoor Education Practitioners

This includes Learning Outside the Classroom (LOTC), Adventure-Based Learning (ABL), and Experiential Education facilitators across both the public and private sectors.​​​​​

SA AIA's role as a professional body is to ensure that these professions are:

  • Properly defined and recognised within national education and labour systems.

  • Practised ethically, with safety, competence, and responsibility at their core.

  • Supported with clear professional pathways, including designations, continuous professional development (CPD), and recognition of prior learning (RPL).

PROFESSIONAL BODY FOR ADVENTURE GUIDES & LOTC PRACTITIONERS

Award Professional Designations.

Define and uphold codes of ethical and professional practice across the sector.

Support recognition of qualifications and skills.

Maintain a register of designated members.

Develop and endorse CPD programmes to ensure practitioners remain up-to-date and competent.

Advocate for the industry: engage with government, employers, & training providers.

Provide professional guidance & leadership, supporting at every stage of their career.

Why Professional Body recognition matters.

Being part of a professional body:

  • Enhances your credibility and employability in the adventure and outdoor learning sectors.

  • Provides access to development opportunities, CPD, and mentorship.

  • Connects you to a national network of like-minded professionals.

  • Ensures your work is recognised, supported, and protected within the legal and regulatory frameworks of South Africa.

bottom of page