Description

Course Purpose

Foundational Learning refers to the essential skills in two key areas—Communication and Mathematical Literacy—that individuals need to succeed in occupational learning at NQF Levels 2 to 4. Its primary goal is to remove learning barriers and support progress along occupational and skills development pathways.

The Foundational Communication component focuses on the language skills, knowledge, and practices required for both the language of instruction in training and the formal language used in the workplace. It aims to equip learners to confidently understand and use the Language of Learning and Teaching (LOLT) in occupational training. This includes developing oral, reading, writing, and print-based learning skills, as well as the ability to understand the language used in formal assessments such as trade tests. Learners who complete this component will be able to communicate clearly and effectively in the language of instruction, enabling further progress in their careers and learning.

The Foundational Mathematical Literacy component provides the essential mathematical knowledge and skills needed to manage the mathematical demands of occupational learning and real-life situations. It lays the groundwork for further development in more advanced or occupation-specific mathematical concepts.

Learners who complete this component will be able to interpret and solve real-world problems using mathematical ideas presented in different forms. They will define and plan problem-solving strategies, execute them, and interpret and evaluate their results. Their responses will include identifying, ordering, sorting, comparing, counting, estimating, calculating, measuring, modelling, interpreting, and communicating. Topics include numbers and quantities, space and shape, patterns and relationships, data and probability, and measurement.

Why This Course?

The Foundational Learning Competence (FLC) Part Qualification consists of two components: Communication and Mathematical Literacy. These have been identified as core (platform) skills essential for success in occupational qualifications and skills development. The FLC is aligned with the occupational qualifications framework and was developed to meet the following needs:

• Many South Africans are unable to obtain occupational and trade qualifications at NQF Levels 2 to 4 because they have not met the fundamental requirements for mathematical literacy and language at all four levels of the FET band. Foundational Learning offers an alternative pathway to support their progress.
• Historical educational disadvantages have left many individuals without the foundational skills in language and mathematics needed to cope with the learning demands of these qualifications. The FLC supports learners within the skills development context.
• Occupational qualifications in the FET band may include additional language or mathematical requirements specific to certain sectors. These build upon the foundational competence provided by the FLC.

The FLC is supported by an assessment model that helps identify learners who need additional support in these two foundational areas. It also recognises prior learning for those who already meet the minimum competency requirements. In this way, it improves access and reduces barriers to occupational advancement.

This part qualification must be used together with the Curriculum Frameworks for each learning area, which are registered with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). These frameworks define the required knowledge, skills, content, range, and assessment criteria. All training programmes must align with these frameworks. Compliance is also a requirement for provider accreditation for this part qualification.