What is a learnership?

A learnership helps individuals (learners) to obtain a NQF registered qualification by linking structured learning and work experience. The learner usually needs to obtain 120 credits or 1200 notional hours of learning. Anyone can enter a learnership and it is not dependant on age.

An agreement is signed between an employer, the learner as well as a training provider. The learner will receive structured learning from the provider and structured workplace experience from the employer - this is to fulfil the requirements of the qualification.

Learnerships help learners to implement or use the knowledge that they gained through their education. However, they also get the theory behind tasks in the working environment.

Learners are assessed various stages of the learnership. This is to ensure that a learner is able to practically apply the knowledge and skills learned - these are called outcomes.

How to get onto a learnership:

Learnerships are popular as it is a great way to get a recognised qualification when you do not have the funds to study at a tertiary institution.

Because the employer is a key participant in the learnership you will have to find one that can provide you with employment or with the opportunity to get experience in the workplace.

There are a number of things you can do:

• the Department of Labour keeps a database of people who want to go on learnerships. Contact you local department of labour office as soon as possible or click here or for more information on registering with the dept you can click here.

• the Umsobomvu Youth Fund keeps a database of young people (under 35) who want to go on learnerships. They can be contacted on 08600 96884 or visit their website here.

• the Services Seta Career Centres can also be contacted should you wish to do one of their learnerships. Their phone number is 0861 101 148.

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