Author: Candice Zulu
With the Workplace Skills Plan (WSP) and Annual Training Report (ATR) submission deadline behind us, many businesses are understandably relieved to have ticked this annual requirement off their compliance checklist. But before moving on completely, it might be worth asking… now what?
Whether the submission process was smooth or a bit of a scramble, now is the perfect time to regroup, reflect and get ahead of the next cycle. Skills development shouldn’t be treated as a once-a-year task – it is an ongoing process that, when managed well, can add real value to your business.
Here are a few things companies should be focusing on now that the submission period has ended:
- Reflect on what worked and what didn’t
If the submission process felt rushed or frustrating, take the time now to review what made it difficult. Were your training records disorganised? Was it hard to match training to your business needs? Did you miss potential opportunities to claim discretionary grants? Identifying these gaps now will make next year’s submission that much easier and more effective. - Revisit your training plans
Your submitted WSP should be more than just a compliance document. It should be a living guide for your business’s training priorities. Revisit your plan and make sure it still aligns with your operational goals. Business priorities shift, so your training focus may need to as well. - Track and collect evidence early
Don’t wait until next year to start gathering the documents you need. Start keeping track of all your training activities including attendance registers, invoices, certificates and course content as you go. This habit will reduce last-minute stress and help ensure you have everything ready when the next reporting cycle comes around. - Maintain engagement with your skills committee
If your organisation has a skills development committee in place, it is worth keeping them active throughout the year. Regular meetings can help ensure training remains relevant and that employees across departments have input into development priorities. - Consider outsourcing for peace of mind
If your submission didn’t go as smoothly as you’d hoped, or if it felt like a shot in the dark, you are not alone. Many companies struggle with interpreting SETA requirements, understanding what counts as quality training, or simply managing the administration load. That is where we can help.
Our HR team provides expert support with WSP and ATR submissions, and we don’t just step in at the last minute. We work with our clients throughout the year to track training, advise on SETA alignment and prepare for successful submissions that unlock the full value of skills development for their business.
Need help getting ahead for next year’s submission? Contact us to find out more about our skills development submission services.