Learnerships are a form of vocational education and training (VET) that combine workplace learning with theoretical instruction. They are designed to provide learners with the skills and knowledge necessary to enter a specific occupation. Learnerships are typically offered by employers, training providers, and government agencies.
In South Africa, learnerships are regulated by the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). The NQF is a system that classifies all qualifications in South Africa according to their level of difficulty and complexity. Learnerships are typically classified at NQF levels 1-4.
Advantages of Learnerships
There are many advantages to learnerships, including:
- They provide learners with the skills and knowledge necessary to enter a specific occupation. Learnerships are designed to meet the specific needs of employers, so they provide learners with the skills and knowledge that they need to be successful in the workplace.
- They offer learners the opportunity to earn while they learn. Learnerships are typically paid positions, so learners can earn money while they are gaining valuable experience.
- They can help learners to develop their soft skills. Learnerships provide learners with the opportunity to develop their soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
- They can lead to permanent employment. Many employers hire learners who have successfully completed a learnership.
Disadvantages of Learnerships
There are also some disadvantages to learnerships, including:
- They can be competitive to get into. Learnerships are often competitive to get into, so learners may need to have good grades and/or experience in order to be accepted.
- They can be demanding. Learnerships can be demanding, as they require learners to balance work and study.
- They may not be available in all occupations. Learnerships are not available in all occupations, so learners may need to consider other options if they want to enter a specific field.
Facts about Learnerships in South Africa
- Learnerships are the most popular form of VET in South Africa.
- There are over 1,000 learnerships registered with the NQF.
- Learnerships are offered in a wide range of occupations, including:
- Business and administration
- Engineering and manufacturing
- Information technology
- Health and social care
- Tourism and hospitality
- The average duration of a learnership is 12-18 months.
- Learnerships are typically paid positions, with learners earning a stipend or salary.
- Many employers hire learners who have successfully completed a learnership.
Conclusion
Learnerships are a valuable form of VET that can provide learners with the skills and knowledge necessary to enter a specific occupation. However, learnerships can also be competitive to get into and demanding to complete. Learners should carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of learnerships before making a decision about whether or not to pursue one.
Additional Information
- The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) is the government agency responsible for regulating learnerships.
- The National Learnership Register (NLR) is a database of all learnerships registered with the NQF.
- The National Skills Fund (NSF) provides funding for learnerships.
- The Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) are responsible for developing and implementing learnerships in their respective sectors.
