Select a Work-based Qualification. Learnerships and apprenticeships are work-based qualifications that allow youth to earn while they learn and to work and qualify at the same time. SAQA lists a range of Occupational Certificates that help individuals qualify for specific jobs or job fields.
Selecting a Work-based Qualification
Registered Work-based Qualifications: Learnerships and Apprenticeships
Some people are very specific about the type of work they want to do, while others prefer not to be confined, wanting to move between fields. Don’t be too rigid about your choices and don’t be concerned if you feel as if you have more than one or two interests.
Click here for a list of registered private colleges and also expand your search for alternative study opportunities.
Look at this comprehensive list of currently registered learnerships, click this link to see what opportunities to look out for. A pipeline of new qualifications is being developed, so there’s a lot of stuff to keep up to date with! Follow Keep Climbing and keep up to date! 🙂
Registered Occupational Certificates
Qualifications lead you to the providers that are accredited to deliver them. Here are links to the lists of the wide range of Job Qualifications that are now available:
- NQF. Level 1 and 2 for those with little or no high school and limited if any work experience.
- NQF Level 3 qualifications for those with some high school and little or no work experience.
- Amazing NQF Level 4 qualifications for Matriculants or experienced workers.
- NQF Level 5 job qualifications
- Exciting NQF Level 6 job qualifications
Select a Work-based Qualification: A Step-by-Step Guide
Choosing an occupational qualification such as a learnership or apprenticeship can be a significant decision that can impact your future career prospects.
Here are some steps you can take to select the right occupational qualification for you:
1. Identify your interests and strengths:
Begin by identifying your areas of interest and the skills you possess. This will help you to narrow down your options and find an occupational qualification that aligns with your passions and abilities.
2. Research available options:
Once you have identified your interests and strengths, research the different occupational qualifications available in your field of interest. Look into the requirements, duration, and benefits of each option to see which one would be the best fit for you.
3. Consider the job market:
It’s essential to consider the job market and the demand for the occupational qualification you’re interested in. Do your research on the job market, salaries, and opportunities for growth to ensure you’re making a wise investment in your future.
Get to know the critical skills and mine those sectors for an opportunity.
4. Look at the reputation of the provider:
The provider of the occupational qualification should have a good reputation. Research the provider’s track record, accreditation, and experience in offering the qualification.
5. Consider the practical aspects:
Consider the practical aspects of the qualification such as location, costs, and duration. Think about how long you’re willing to commit to the program and the costs involved. Learnerships and apprenticeships are free training interventions funded via the Skills Development Levy. Learners are paid a stipend for the duration of the programme.
6. Speak with experts and professionals:
Speak with experts and professionals in your field of interest to get a better understanding of the qualifications and their benefits. You can also seek advice from career counsellors, teachers, and mentors to help you make an informed decision.
Visit the SETA websites that represent the fields you are interested in. The HWSETA career portal is an example of how SETAs provide career information in their sector.
By following these steps, you can make an informed decision on the best occupational qualification for you, and take the first step towards building a successful career.
What is the impact of Learnership and Apprenticeship Training?
Let’s take a look at some of the reported findings from local and international studies:
- According to a report by the International Labour Organization, about 75% of young people who complete an apprenticeship or vocational training program are employed within six months of completion. (Source: International Labour Organization, “Skills for improved productivity, employment growth and development,” 2016. https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/—dgreports/—dcomm/—publ/documents/publication/wcms_473037.pdf)
- In South Africa, the Department of Higher Education and Training reported that over 500,000 learnerships were completed between 2014 and 2018, and over 80% of those learners found employment after completing their programs. (Source: Department of Higher Education and Training, “Learnerships,” 2019. https://www.dhet.gov.za/SiteAssets/Learnerships/Learnerships%20brochure%202019.pdf)
- In the United States, a study by the National Skills Coalition found that apprenticeships lead to higher earnings and improved job prospects. Specifically, the study found that apprenticeship graduates earn an average starting wage of $70,000, and 94% of apprentices retain employment after completing their programs. (Source: National Skills Coalition, “Apprenticeship Works: For Workers, For Employers, For Communities,” 2017. https://www.nationalskillscoalition.org/resources/publications/file/Apprenticeship-Works.pdf)
- According to Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union, 46% of employed persons in the European Union participated in work-related training in 2019. (Source: Eurostat, “Employment and social statistics: Further training of employed persons,” 2021. https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php/Employment_and_social_statistics_-_further_training_of_employed_persons)
Final Words
In conclusion, learnerships and apprenticeships are crucial options for South African youth to consider, as they provide valuable work experience, practical skills, and formal qualifications that improve their employment prospects. According to the Department of Higher Education and Training, over 80% of learners who completed their learnerships found employment afterwards. Additionally, learnerships and apprenticeships offer an alternative to traditional academic routes and provide more affordable and accessible education and training. Therefore, these programs play a critical role in reducing youth unemployment, promoting skills development, and contributing to the economic growth and prosperity of South Africa.
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