Curriculum development is done at a national level by the FET Curriculum Development and Support directorate.

The core responsibility of this directorate is to ensure the successful development of FET curricula and support the implementation of programmes and qualifications for FET Colleges. The support involves: monitoring, co-ordination and reporting on curriculum development activities, textbook screening, lecturer training and workshops to share best practices in different programmes.

Two programmes are offered in the curriculum: The National Certificate Vocational (NCV) and the Nated courses (N4-6). The former can be entered with a Grade 9 pass, the latter requires a pass at Matric level (Grade 12). The two programmes differ in content and purpose. Out of 7 NC(V) subjects, 3 will be Fundamental courses which include theory, and 4 will be Vocational courses, which are mostly practical subjects. The Nated courses, in comparison, are mostly theoretical in content. A Nated learner has the option of converting the N6 (final year) qualification into a diploma by completing 18 months of theory and 18 months of practical in the form of a job placement.

In addition to these two programmes, many colleges offer occupational programmes, skills programmes, training on behalf of SETAs and learnerships.

Colleges can access curriculum support through the FET Curriculum Development and Support directorate website.