Definition

learnership is a form of work-based or ‘on-the-job’ training which results in a registered qualification: National Qualification Framework (NQF).

This programme therefore, should spend time learning and practising skills specific to a particular trade, in and around the workplace. It will also involve learning knowledge/theory in a classroom situation at an institution or by a registered provider.

SpecCon, an accredited provider, offers on-site and off-site eLearning development for Employed and Unemployed Learnerships.

Criteria

These programs happen in occupational sectors specific to the job, which will fall under the Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA). Each SETA will set out the basic requirements for the applicable program.

This program will lead to an NQF qualification and the design must meet the criteria for qualifications set out by South African Qualification Authority (SAQA).

Once you have identified the Learnership that supports your career goals you should research the requirements for that specific program.

The minimum requirements are:

  • National Senior Certificate or National Certificate: Vocational and often
  • Computer literacy

SpecCon Online training can assist with your basic computer courses, advanced Microsoft Office training, management qualifications, and online management courses.

Roadmap for Employers

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Why do a Learnership?

To ensure that a company’s workforce is skilled and has practical experience in the respective fields.

Funding

The main source of funding derived are from SETA grants to employers. These grants are linked to tax incentives for employers who pay Skills Development Levy.

Company benefits

Other than the benefit of skilled, motivated and dedicated employees, these programs also offer a company financial benefits in terms of cash grants and tax incentives.

Tax incentives

tax incentive is a government measure that is intended to encourage individuals and businesses to spend money or to save money by reducing the amount of tax that they must pay.

The company can claim, once they have registered the agreement with SETA, for each candidate in its employment, in two stages:

  • At the start; and
  • Upon completion.

These incentives are legislated in Section 12H of the Income Tax Act 58 of 1962 and the amendment made in 2010.

Cash Grants

“Discretionary” cash grants can be claimed from companies who pay skills levy tax when implementing the programme. The qualification for a cash grant should first be checked with SETA to establish if grants are available. These grants are in addition to the levy repayment for drafting and/or implementing work place Learnerships. The company needs to plan ahead for these claims as they are offered on a first come, first serve basis on the condition that the Learnership addresses a scarce skill in a specific sector.

Agreement

An agreement is a contract for a specific time period between a learner, the employer and the training provider. A agreement places no obligation on the employer to employ the learner upon termination and/or conclusion of the agreement. The Agreement must be completed and registered at SETA to enable the program to commence.

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Qualified Learnership

Learners will have to be assessed against occupational standards as agreed upon in advance by industry stakeholders to become qualified in their field. During the Learnership phase, the learner will be required to complete assignments, tasks, practical tests and projects.

If all the required assignments are completed successfully, an NQF Certificate will be awarded to the learner.

You are welcome to contact SpecCon for details and assistance on your requirements for the Learnership of your choice.