Frequently Asked Questions by Parents/Guardians

This section is devided into:

1. Course related questions,
2. Financial information,
3. Support and
4. Logistics

COURSE INFORMATION

What is a National Certificate Vocational (NCV)?

Since January 2007, The National Certificate (Vocational) replaced the NATED (N1-N3) at public FET Colleges.  The National Certificate (Vocational) is the new curriculum that is being introduced to FET Colleges around the country.  It gives grade 9 students an alternative to an academic grade 10-12 but also gives students, who have already passed grades 10-12, the opportunity to obtain a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) level 2-4 industry related qualification.  These programmes were designed to incorporate both theory and practice.  These qualifications are registered with Umalusi, which is also the primary ETQA of Boland College. 

How long are these courses and will a student be able to enter tertiary education?

The courses are offered at levels 2, 3 and 4 of which each is a year long.  A student is issued with a certificate on successful completion of each level of study.  After completing level 4 a student will be issued with a National Certificate (Vocational). 

On 26 November 2009 the Government Gazette No 32743 was published which stipulates the minimum admission requirements for Higher Certificate, Diploma and Degree Programmes requiring a National Certificate (Vocational) at level 4 of the National Qualifications Framework.  This clearly stipulates that while the NC(V) Level 4 makes the student eligible for admission to higher education, it does not guarantee a student admission to any programme of study.  Within the context of this policy, the right of higher education institutions to set specific admission requirements to particular programmes is confirmed. 

Which subjects make up a National Certificate (Vocational)?

In order to obtain a National Certificate (Vocational), a student is required to take a total of 7 subjects.  These include 3 fundamental subjects and 4 vocational subjects.

What is the difference between a level and a certificate?

For the level courses the minimum requirement is grade 9 or 10, but students may also enter the programme with grade 11 or 12.  It is a three year course and it aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge of the workplace.  This will then empower them to make a positive contribution to the country's economy, productivity and the development of new technology.

For the certificate the student needs a grade 12.  This is a two year course and it aims to equip learners with the necessary skills required for elementary employment in different industries.

What is the language of tuition?

Classes are presented in both Afrikaans and English.  The College endeavours to have all examination papers for major tests and examinations available in both English and Afrikaans.  Some resource materials are only available in Afrikaans and others only in English.  Enquire from the Faculty Heads which materials are only available in one language.

What time do the classes start?

It depends on the course that a student is enrolled for.  A timetable is available at the campus secretary at the beginning of February.

What practical experience will a student have after completing one of the programmes?

All programmes at Boland College have a big focus on practical experience. This ensures that the student does not only understand the theoretical side of the programme but that they are equipped with the necessary skills to perform in the industry.

Students obtain a document from the College, which has to be submitted to employers.  It is the learner's responsibility to find suitable employment.  The necessary information must be given to the program head/lecturer concerned who will confirm the employment.  Practical work experience is compulsory and may be done at suitable, local businesses or businesses in the hometown of the student.  Certificate students must complete 60 days of practical work during their two years of study.

WHAT WILL IT COST?

Are Boland College programmes expensive?

In general, public further education and training college fees compare very favourably with private sector institutions.  When comparing Boland College programme fees with other educational institutions our fees are very favourably. Fees differ from course to course and between campuses.  A cost structure is available at the campus financial officer.  You may further apply for a bursary or study loan to assist in funding your studies.   

Where can one apply for a loan or bursary?

Student loans are available through various banks and institutions for performing and deserving students.  The National Certificate (Vocational) is supported by the National Department of Higher Education and Training and students wishing to study these courses may apply for the National Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) Further Education and Training (FET) College Bursary Scheme.

Bursaries are also available from various institutions. Contact your campus marketer or student support officer for more information. All of the above are subject to certain terms and conditions. 

If a student does not qualify for a bursary or loan, may I pay off the course fees?

All courses are subject to a registration fee and deposit.  Deposits can vary from 25% for a year course to 50% for a semester course.  The remaining fees may be paid off during the year provided a payment agreement is signed with the Campus.  If you need more information on this, please contact your nearest campus' financial officer.

SUPPORT

Where can a prospective student receive career guidance and student support?

Student Support Officers is situated on each of our 5 campuses and play an integral part in creating an environment in which the student can build interpersonal relationships with them to assist students with counselling, academic development, career guidance and job placement as well as health and social issues.  This assists students to reach their full potential. These services are provided free of charge.

A full range of support is offered by Student Support Services:
Pre-entry: Career Guidance, Assessments for enrolment
On-course support: Academic Development, Academic Support, Study Skills
Exit-level support: Interviewing and CV Skills

LOGISTICS

Do the campuses offer transport to and from campus?

Certain campuses may offer transport at a nominal fee, but this is not the case with all campuses.  Kindly enquire from the Student Support Officer at the campus what the arrangements are.

Is there accommodation available on campus?

Boland College offers accommodation for students at the following campuses. 

Caledon Campus
Mr Willem Pienaar
Tel: 028 212 3270
Email: willemp@bolandcollege.com

Paarl Campus
Mrs. Nella van Niekerk
Tel: 021 872 3323
Email: nellavn@bolandcollege.com

Stellenbosch Campus
Ms René Pentz
Tel: 021 887 3027
Email: renep@bolandcollege.com

Strand Campus
Hostel accommodation is not available. Learners can be assisted in obtaining private accommodation if necessary

Worcester Campus
Me. Harriet Asia or Mr. Henry January
Tel: 023 348 6920
Email: harrieta@bolandcollege.com / henryj@bolandcollege.com