FAILED TO MAKE THE GRADE?

If you did not pass matric, here are some alternative study options

MICHELLE LORBER

THERE are study alternatives to pursue if you did not pass matric.

Courses that do not require a matric pass include accounting (including studying for Chartered Institute Management Accountant – Cima qualifications) in which you could learn fundamental business economics, financial and management accounting and commercial ethics within a year. This option is available at Skills Academy and consists of two courses. The first one, Cert BA, is accessible to those who have no prior qualifications and a good command of English. It consists of four subjects and takes 12 to 18 months to complete. You would start with this and work your way forward to a professional qualification. You could also study this at the College of Chartered Accountants or CPUT.

You could also examine your choices when it comes to short or IT courses. HyperionDev run online coding bootcamps which take you from a beginner to job ready in three to six months. You could also pursue studies in police work, forensics, office or secretarial studies, business or project management, occupational health and safety, tourism or beauty therapy. Interior decorating is another option.

If you’re looking to do a professional, nationally recognised qualification, perhaps one of the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers courses is for you. These are bookkeeping, accounting and business qualifications offered by at least 500 tuition bodies across the country. Depending on the subject, they range from NQF levels 3 to 6.

Distance learning is a correspondence course involving self-study. You will be provided with study materials and resources via email or an online learning programme. Students need to finish tasks and assignments within a certain time frame. Interaction between lecturers and students is limited.

You can take classes wherever you are and don’t need to travel.

You could also do part-time studies in the evenings or on Saturdays. Colleges offering courses for which you do not need a matric include Skills Academy, Matric College, Bellview Institute, College SA, Matric College, Learning Group, TWP Academy, Home Study College and The Decor School.

As short courses are skillsbased, the focus is on acquiring the practical skills you need as a first step to your career. You need to be able to read, write and understand English. Course requirements vary from one institution to another. Most of them require a Grade 10 pass.

With some of these courses, such as the crèche management one offered by Matric College, you need to have passed Grade 10 and be older than 16.

With distance learning, each institution has its own list of entry requirements. They are usually determined by the type of course and level of qualification. It is best to contact the institution directly or visit their website.