What you do on a Learnership: The Key Features

What learnerships offer and what you will do on a learnership. Find out about the features and benefits, and what you can expect to do in a learnership program. Learnership activities range from shadowing experienced employees to attending training sessions and completing assessments.

What Happens on a Learnership?

What do you do on a learnership and how can you benefit from it?

Are you thinking of starting a learnership program but not sure what to expect? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of learnerships, including the types available, how to apply, what to expect, and the benefits of completing a program. We’ll also share some tips and tricks for succeeding in your learnership and balancing your commitments. So, let’s dive in!

Types of Learnerships Available

First things first, let’s talk about the different types of industry learnerships available. In general, a learnership is a work-based learning program that combines theoretical and practical training. It’s designed to give participants the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a particular occupation or industry.

The types of learnerships available vary depending on the needs of the industry. Learnerships are available in fields such as hospitality, information technology, manufacturing, and healthcare.

To find out what types of learnerships are available, you can start by searching online or contacting your local government or training authority. You can also reach out to employers in your desired field and ask if they offer any learnership or apprenticeship programs.

What is a Learnership? Learnerships have Two Key Features

A learnership is a training process that allows you to work and obtain a qualification at the same time. A learnership has two key features, they are:

1. Accredited training (towards a registered SAQA qualification)
2. On-the-job learning and practising or work experience.

Common Duties and Responsibilities of Learnership Participants: What do you do on a learnership?

So, what exactly will you be doing on a learnership? While the specific duties and responsibilities may vary depending on the program and industry, here are some common tasks you may be expected to perform:

1. Shadowing and observing: You may spend time observing more experienced employees and learning from their actions and decisions.
2. Assisting with tasks: You may be given tasks to complete on your own, or you may assist other employees with their work.
3. Participating in training sessions: You’ll likely attend training sessions that cover theoretical topics related to your field.
4. Completing assessments: Depending on the program, you may be required to complete assessments or exams to demonstrate your knowledge and skills.

How the Learnership Programme Begins

What to Expect to do on a learnership: Your First Day of a Learnership

Congratulations, you’ve been accepted into a learnership program!

Now, what can you expect on your first day? Depending on the program, your first day may involve a welcome session, an orientation, or even some hands-on training.

You’ll likely meet your facilitator, supervisor or mentor. You will be introduced to whoever will be your main point of contact throughout the learnership program. They’ll explain the program requirements and expectations, as well as any rules or policies you need to follow. You may also meet other learnership participants and start to get to know them.

Overall, the first day of a learnership can be exciting but also a bit nerve-wracking. Just remember that everyone else is in the same boat! Your supervisor is there to support you and answer any questions you may have.

SETA Requirement: The Learnership Induction

During the learnership induction programme, participants are given a detailed description of the SAQA qualification.

Ensure that you understand the implications of the NQF Level that the qualification is registered on.

• If you have Matric and are on an NQF level 3 or 4 learnership, you may be entitled to credits for Maths and Languages. If you can be credited, then you will be able to spend more time on your other modules.

Explaining Learnership Programme Delivery: What do you do on a learnership

During the Induction, you are informed how the program will be delivered. For example, if the learnership is going to be delivered in individual unit standards or integrated learning programs. If it’s delivered as individual unit standards your workload will be higher than a programme that is integrated.

An integrated programme means that unit standards have been grouped and that overlapping content is taught simultaneously (in one go). When content is integrated, it removes repetition and allows you to cover many unit standard outcomes at once.

Qualifications are made up of modules called unit standards.

Imagine a brick wall. If bricks build a wall, then unit standards build a qualification.

You will receive a list of all the unit standards that you will be required to complete during your learnership at the induction.

How is A Learning Program or Unit Standard Structured?

Each learning program or unit standard has theoretical and practical requirements.

The theoretical component is managed by an accredited training organisation. This is usually only around 30 – 40% of the qualification training time.

The balance, the other 70-60% of the Learnership is based on what you accomplish in the workplace.

Learnership Log Sheets: What do you do on a learnership?

During your Induction, you will be advised on how you must maintain records of your work experience on the Learnership Log Sheet.

Your Log Sheet must be signed off and verified by your direct line manager or supervisor. These Log Sheets are submitted to the training provider at the end of each month. Log sheets assist in determining whether you will be found Competent or Not Yet Competent.

The reason why Candidates are often unsuccessful in Learnerships can be attributed to companies’ lack of understanding and monitoring of the log sheets, and learners’ failure to maintain these records.

Buy chocolates, beers or wash their car – make sure your supervisor signs off on each module as it’s completed or you could be in serious trouble at the end. Few managers enjoy the extra administration a learnership imposes on them, so manage this process carefully, like a professional! Manage your manager correctly!

Make Sacrifices: Learnerships Are Worth The Work

You should expect to work on your studies after hours and at weekends. You will be required to develop a Portfolio of Evidence (POE) to prove that you have mastered skills and knowledge.  A POE must be created at the beginning and added to throughout the programme.

If you’re not committed to the career path that the Learnership places you on, you will struggle with the demands. But if you’re someone who is willing to apply effort and passion – this is the perfect way for you to get connected professionally.

Learnership Training Time: What do you do on a learnership?

Learnership class-based sessions or contact times with the training provider usually occur on a  monthly basis. Learners sign a contract with an employer and a training provider who is accredited for the qualification they have been placed on.

The Department of Higher Education and Training advises learners to obtain a copy of this accreditation certificate and to check the credentials. There are many tsotsis who exploit the youth and make false promises about qualifications. Get the paperwork ok!

Sometimes training is completed in 12 months, other times it extends to 18 months. The time allocated to contact sessions vary from one workplace to the next. Qualifications are designed to be delivered over 12 months, if learners struggle it’s often extended.

I would want to know why a qualification is being delivered over 18 months if that’s on the contract. Many firms exploit youth and could try to extend contracts and obstruct training so they can have cheap labour for longer. 

Companies commit anything from one day to 10 days per month. The less contact time you have with the facilitators and assessors – the more challenging the program will be. If you have work experience you won’t struggle as much as those who are inexperienced.  This is because you can apply your experience to the training whereas those with no experience have much more to learn from scratch.

Learnership Formative and Summative Assessment: What do you do on a learnership

Most training providers require that you submit a completed Workbook providing evidence of independent or group learning activities for each module.

These activities are referred to as Formative Assessment activities. They monitor and illustrate what you did in order to process the content and prepare for  Summative Activities.

‘Processing the content’ refers to how you made mistakes and corrected yourself,  how you started to understand the information and then explained it in your own words and terminology.

Formative activities provide information about your progress, your strengths and weaknesses. The Summative activities test your ability to apply the skills, knowledge and values.

Your Formative and Summative activities create your Portfolio of Evidence (PoE).

Your PoE is usually at least two lever arch files containing Formative, Summative and workplace evidence.

The training provider guides you through the Formative and Summative activities. Your workplace mentors and coaches assist you with the workplace evidence.  Workplace evidence should show how you started off with simple tasks and activities and then grew to apply the knowledge and skills in a way that shows your initiative.

Your training provider assesses your PoE on a monthly basis and provides you and your employer with feedback regarding your progress. This can be embarrassing if you have been unfocused and poorly organised.

The training provider is required to be honest with the employer about your abilities and commitment and will report you for misconduct or poor delivery. If you come across as unprofessional, your contract could be terminated if you were taken on as an unemployed candidate.

It doesn’t matter how many mistakes you make, you will always have a champion on your side if you’re someone who makes a sincere effort. People who are consistent stand a better chance of being hired by the company once their Learnership is complete.

Learnerships are Important Occupational Programmes

Once learners have signed contracts, their learnerships are registered with SARS so the employer can claim rebates, reimbursements of stipends issued and BEE Points.

Learners are also termed ’employees’ and protected by labour legislation. Learners can register complaints with the CCMA or the nearest Department of Labour branch and the Department of Higher Education and Training.

What does ‘occupationally directed’ mean?

It means the qualification strengthens and develops your ability to meet a particular job expectation in one or a range of industries.

The skills that you learn are specifically related to the workplace, empowering your career development and future job-seeking opportunities.

Tips for Succeeding in a Learnership Program: What do you do on a learnership

Now that you’re settled in, how can you ensure you succeed in your learnership program? Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Be proactive: Don’t wait for your supervisor to tell you what to do. Take initiative and look for opportunities to learn and contribute.
2. Ask questions: If you’re not sure about something, don’t be afraid to ask. Your supervisor is there to support you, and asking questions shows that you’re engaged and eager to learn.
3. Be reliable: Show up on time, meet deadlines, and communicate any issues or concerns you may have. Your supervisor needs to know that they can count on you to fulfil your responsibilities.
4. Network: Take advantage of the opportunity to meet and connect with other learnership participants, as well as industry professionals. You never know where these connections may lead in the future.
5. Stay organized: Keep track of your tasks and deadlines, and make sure you’re meeting all program requirements. This will help you stay on top of your work and avoid any last-minute stress.
6. Keep a Reflective Diary: Reflect on what you learnt on a particular day or throughout the week. Think about how you can improve, what you could have done better and what you need to remember.

Skills You Can Learn on a Learnership

One of the great things about learnerships is the opportunity to develop new skills and knowledge. Here are some skills you may learn on a learnership program:

1. Technical skills: Depending on the industry, you may learn technical skills such as using specific software, operating machinery, or performing certain procedures.
2. Soft skills: You may also develop soft skills such as communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving.
3. Industry-specific knowledge: Learnerships are designed to give participants a deep understanding of their industry and the trends and challenges it faces. This knowledge can be valuable throughout your career.

How to Balance a Learnership with Other Commitments

When you’re participating in a learnership program, you’re working and studying. So it can be challenging to balance all of your commitments. Here are some tips for managing your time:

1. Prioritize: Make a list of your tasks and responsibilities and prioritize them based on importance and deadline.
2. Create a schedule: Use a planner or digital calendar to map out your schedule and make sure you’re dedicating enough time to each task.
3. Communicate: If you’re struggling to balance your learnership commitments, don’t be afraid to communicate with your supervisor or mentor. They may be able to offer support or adjust your schedule to help you manage your workload.

Are Learners Paid?

Learn and Earn a Stipend(low)

Learners participating in a learnership are paid a stipend. Some companies pay as low as R 1 500 and others as much as R 10k per month. Most stipends are very low and difficult to live on if you have no family or community support.

The Benefits of a Learnership Program: Why to Complete Your Learnership

1. Personal and Professional Benefits of Doing a Learnership

Completing a learnership program can have many benefits, both personally and professionally. Here are just a few:

1. Gain practical experience: Learnerships are designed to give participants hands-on training in their desired field. This experience can be invaluable when it comes to finding employment or advancing in your career.
2. Develop new skills: In addition to practical experience, learnerships often include theoretical training that can help you develop new skills and knowledge. This can make you a more well-rounded and valuable employee.
3. Get certified: Depending on the program, you may receive a formal qualification or certification upon completing your learnership. This can help you stand out in the job market and show employers that you have the skills and knowledge they’re looking for.
4. Improve your chances of getting hired: Completing a learnership can make you a more attractive candidate to potential employers. It shows that you’re dedicated to your career and willing to put in the effort to succeed.

2. Industry Relevance of Learnerships: What do you do on a learnership?

Learnerships provide brilliant opportunities for candidates to improve their job prospects and career development.

Be prepared for disciplined work. You’ll be required to complete a full workload meet all on-the-job expectations and must study passionately to complete the qualification. It can become challenging if you’re not used to establishing routines for yourself.

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3. Possible Career Paths After Completing a Learnership

Completing a learnership can open up many career opportunities. Depending on your industry and the program you completed, you may be able to pursue a variety of career paths. Here are just a few examples:

1. Entry-level positions.: A learnership can give you the skills and experience you need to land an entry-level position.
2. Further education.: If you completed a learnership in a field that requires further education, such as healthcare or education, you may be able to pursue additional training.
3. Specialization.: Some learnerships are designed to help participants specialize in a particular area of industry. If you completed one of these programs, you may be able to pursue a career in that specific area.

How to Apply for a Learnership Program

Once you’ve identified a learnership program you’re interested in, the next step is to apply. While the application process may vary depending on the program, in general, you’ll need to submit an application form and provide supporting documents such as a learnership CV, ID, and qualifications.

It’s important to note that learnerships can be competitive. So it’s a good idea to apply to several programs to increase your chances of getting accepted. You can also reach out to employers or industry associations to ask about any upcoming learnerships or apprenticeships that may not be advertised publicly.

Click here for 12 Common interview questions and answers for a learnership

Reasons to Participate in Learnerships: What do you do on a learnership?

Participating in a learnership program can be a great way to kickstart your career and gain valuable experience and skills. Balancing a learnership with other commitments can be challenging, but with good time management and communication skills, it’s possible to succeed. And once you’ve completed your learnership, you’ll have a wide range of career opportunities to explore. So, if you’re looking to jumpstart your career or gain new skills, consider applying for a learnership program today!

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