Applying for a SETA learnership does not always guarantee shortlisting by the next step of the process. If a programme receives a large number of applications, the organisation that recruits for the vacancy may need to look through these and select those that are suitable and should move to the next stage of the selection process
This process is known as shortlisting.
Being familiar with the procedure will make it easier for learners to deal with the process and will avoid the possibility of making basic mistakes that could rule them out of consideration.
There is not necessarily a standard shortlisting procedure for all SETA learnerships, however, and requirements, assessments and selection methods can vary according to the employer, training provider, occupation and programme.
What Is SETA Learnership Shortlisting?
SETA learnership shortlisting refers to the process of looking at applications and choosing those that are suitable for moving to the next stage of the selection process.
A programme may attract a large number of applications from individuals interested in a vacancy. Therefore, the process requires recruiters to assess those that have applied based on the requirements indicated in the relevant learnership advertisement.
Being eligible does not always ensure that an applicant will automatically be shortlisted.
Shortlisting is generally about deciding who should go through to the next stage of the selection process.
1. Application Screening
The first stage in shortlisting usually involves looking at submitted applications.
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Recruiters need to ensure that applicants meet the requirements indicated in the vacancy advertisement. Those who do not may never even get through to the next stage of the process.
Depending on the programme, these could include:
Minimum educational qualification
Required school subjects or grades
Age requirements
Employment status
Citizenship or residency requirements
Location requirements
Relevant qualification or field of study
Other programme-specific conditions
Learners should therefore read all advertisements before applying. For example, an opportunity that specifically requires Matric and certain subjects may not consider applicants who do not meet those requirements, despite other relevant skills that they may have.
Eligibility Requirements Can Differ
Applicants should not assume that all learnerships have identical requirements. Some vacancies may be aimed at unemployed youth, for example, while others may have varying age, qualification or employment requirements.
Those considering a SETA learnership opportunity should always treat the advertisement as the primary source of information when assessing eligibility.
2. Checking the Application and Supporting Documents
Recruiters may look at the information submitted in an application and verify that supporting documents have been provided.
Depending on instructions, documents could include:
South African identity document
Curriculum vitae
Matric certificate or statement of results
Other qualifications
Academic records
Proof of relevant training
Other documents specifically requested by the employer
Applicants should not assume that the same documents are required for all learnerships. If the advertisement indicates that a specific document must be submitted, for example, failure to do so could result in the application being rejected.
Make Sure Your Information Is Accurate
Applicants should make sure that the information on the CV matches the information provided on the application form. Incorrect contact details can also cause problems if the organisation attempts to contact shortlisted candidates.
Before submitting the application, therefore, check:
Full name
ID number where required
Telephone number
Email address
Qualifications
Dates of study
Work or training history
Required attachments
3. Applications May Be Assessed Against the Programme’s Requirements
Applications may then be assessed to determine whether eligible candidates should move to the next stage in the recruitment process.
Factors that will be taken into consideration will vary depending on the vacancy.
For example, an information technology programme may require relevant education or computer-related skills, while other occupations may have different requirements.
Applicants should therefore not assume that the same criteria apply to all SETA learnerships. Meeting the minimum requirements therefore simply means that you are eligible to be considered – it does not guarantee selection.
4. Some Programmes May Use Assessments
Some employers or training providers may assess applicants as part of the selection process.
Where required, these could include tests that measure an applicant’s ability or aptitude in various areas, such as:
Numerical ability
Verbal reasoning
Basic computer skills
Problem-solving
Technical knowledge
Situational judgement
An assessment, however, should not always be assumed to be an integral part of the shortlisting process for all SETA learnerships.
If a programme requires one, applicants should be provided with all of the necessary information from the organisation in charge of recruitment.
5. Shortlisted Applicants May Be Invited to an Interview
An interview may be part of the selection process for a learnership vacancy.
The interview will provide the organisation with the opportunity to learn more about the applicant and their interest in the vacancy.
Questions could include:
Why you applied
Why you are interested in the occupation
Your educational background
Your understanding of the learnership
Your communication skills
How you handle situations or challenges
Your career interests
Your availability
Prepare Without Memorising Answers
Learners should be familiar with their CV and be prepared to justify why they have applied. It may also be useful to prepare some examples from school, community activities, volunteering, previous training or other work experience that indicate skills such as teamwork, responsibility and problem-solving.
Applicants should always be honest during the interview and should not attempt to memorise answers to common questions.
6. Final Selection
After shortlisting, assessments and interviews, the organisation will be able to move to the final selection stage.
The process will vary depending on the programme and organisations involved, but a learner who has reached the final stage should carefully read any documents that the employer or training provider provides before signing.
Learnership Agreements
A formal learnership involves an agreement between the relevant parties. The precise agreement and documentation will depend on the programme.
Learners should therefore understand:
Who the employer is
Who provides the training
The occupation or qualification involved
The duration of the programme
Their responsibilities as an employee and as a learner
Those who sign any agreement should always read the document carefully and should consult someone if they need clarification regarding any aspect.
Learners and employers should also ensure that the terms of the agreement comply with the applicable labour laws.
