In today’s fast-evolving job market, gaining relevant skills and experience is more important than ever. One of the most effective pathways to achieve this is through learnerships. These programs provide a unique blend of classroom learning and practical on-the-job training, helping individuals acquire industry-recognized qualifications while earning a stipend.
If you’re new to the concept or want to understand how learnerships can benefit you or your organization, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover what a learnership is, how it works, its benefits, who can apply, and answer frequently asked questions to clear up any doubts.
What is a Learnership?
A learnership is a structured learning program combining theoretical education with practical work experience in a specific industry or occupation. It is a formal agreement between a learner, a training provider (such as a college or private training institution), and an employer or company.
Learnerships are primarily designed to equip learners with the skills and knowledge required for a particular job role, ending with a recognized qualification or credit towards a qualification registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Key Features of Learnerships:
- Combination of theory and practice: Learners attend classes and gain hands-on work experience.
- Registered with SETAs: Most learnerships are registered with Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), ensuring the quality and relevance of training.
- Leads to qualification: Successful completion results in a national qualification or part-qualification.
- Stipend provided: Learners often receive a monthly allowance or stipend during the program.
How Does a Learnership Work?
A learnership typically lasts between 12 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of the qualification and industry requirements. Here’s how the process generally works:
1. Application and Selection
- Interested candidates apply through employers, training providers, or online portals.
- Employers may conduct interviews or assessments to select suitable learners.
2. Registration
- Once selected, learners, employers, and training providers sign a learnership agreement.
- This agreement outlines roles, responsibilities, duration, and terms.
3. Training and Workplace Experience
- Learners attend formal classes or workshops to cover theoretical aspects.
- Simultaneously, they work under supervision in the workplace to gain practical skills.
- The training provider delivers the educational content, while the employer provides mentorship and work exposure.
4. Assessment
- Throughout the learnership, learners undergo periodic assessments.
- These can be written tests, practical demonstrations, or project submissions.
- Assessments are conducted by accredited assessors aligned with SETA standards.
5. Completion and Certification
- After successfully passing all assessments, learners receive a nationally recognized qualification.
- This certification improves their employability and opens doors to career advancement.
Benefits of Learnerships
Learnerships offer significant advantages to both learners and employers:
For Learners:
- Earn while you learn: Most learnerships provide a stipend, helping learners support themselves financially.
- Gain real-world experience: Practical training prepares learners for actual job responsibilities.
- National qualification: Upon completion, learners earn a credential recognized by employers nationwide.
- Career opportunities: Learnerships improve chances of permanent employment and career growth.
- Skill development: Develop industry-specific skills that are in demand.
For Employers:
- Access to skilled talent: Employers can train learners in line with company standards.
- Cost-effective training: Learnerships reduce the cost of training new employees.
- Contribution to transformation: Helps meet employment equity and skills development targets.
- Increased productivity: Well-trained employees improve operational efficiency.
- Government incentives: Employers may qualify for grants or tax rebates for offering learnerships.
Who Can Apply for a Learnership?
Learnerships are suitable for a broad range of people:
- School leavers looking for work experience and skills.
- Unemployed youth wanting to enter the job market.
- Employees who want to upskill or gain formal qualifications.
- People seeking career changes or new skills in a different industry.
Employers in various sectors—from finance, engineering, healthcare, IT, to hospitality—offer learnerships tailored to their needs.
How to Find Learnership Opportunities?
Finding the right learnership involves research and networking. Here are some tips:
- Visit SETA websites: Each sector’s SETA lists registered learnership programs and providers.
- Check employer websites: Companies often advertise learnership vacancies on their careers pages.
- Use government portals: Websites like the National Skills Development Portal or local labor departments provide listings.
- Contact training providers: Accredited colleges or private training centers offer learnerships.
- Attend job fairs and career expos: These events showcase learnership options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is a learnership and how does it work?
A learnership is a structured training program that combines classroom learning and practical work experience, leading to a recognized qualification. It involves registration with an employer, training provider, and often a SETA. Learners attend theoretical lessons and gain on-the-job skills, culminating in assessments and certification.
2. Who qualifies to apply for a learnership?
Anyone who wants to gain skills and qualifications can apply, including school leavers, unemployed youth, existing employees, and career changers. Specific requirements depend on the learnership and sector.
3. How long does a learnership last?
Most learnerships last between 12 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of the qualification and the industry.
4. Do learnerships pay a salary?
Learnerships usually offer a monthly stipend or allowance to support learners during their training, but it is not a full salary.
5. Can I get permanent employment after a learnership?
Many employers use learnerships as a way to train and evaluate potential permanent employees. Successful learners often receive job offers after completion.
6. What qualifications will I get after a learnership?
Upon completion, you receive a nationally recognized qualification registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), which can improve your job prospects.
7. Are learnerships only for young people?
No, learnerships are open to anyone seeking skills development and qualifications, regardless of age.
8. How do I apply for a learnership?
Applications can be made through employers, training providers, SETA websites, government portals, or job listings. Make sure to meet the requirements and submit a complete application.
9. Is a learnership the same as an internship?
No. Internships usually provide work experience without formal qualifications, while learnerships combine work experience with structured learning and lead to certification.
10. What sectors offer learnerships?
Learnerships are available in many sectors, including finance, IT, engineering, healthcare, hospitality, construction, and more.
Conclusion
Learnerships provide a valuable bridge between education and employment, offering practical skills and recognized qualifications that help individuals launch or advance their careers. Whether you are a young person entering the workforce, an employee looking to upskill, or an employer aiming to develop talent, learnerships offer a win-win solution.
By understanding what learnerships are, how they work, and where to find opportunities, you can take the first step toward a brighter professional future. Make sure to explore your options, apply early, and commit fully to your learnership to maximize its benefits.
