The purpose of the introduction of the FET (Further Education and Training) curriculum is to produce workers with knowledge and skills applicable to today's fast changing world. There are many differences between the "old schooling system" that parents are familiar with from their own school days, and the FET band, of which the following can be highlighted:
A new system of categorizing qualifications (NQF)
Levels of Achievement
Requirements to progress
Learning fields and subjects
The NQF (National Qualifications Framework)
Academic qualifications will be categorized according to the framework below:
NQF Level
Higher Education Qualification
2-3
Gr 10 and Gr 11
4
National Senior Certificate (Gr 12)
5
Higher Certificate
6
Diploma / Advanced Certificate
7
Bachelors Degree / Advanced Diploma
8
Honours Degree / Post-graduate Diploma
9
Masters Degree
10
Doctoral Degree
Levels of Achievement
Level
Rating Description
%
7
Outstanding Achievement
80 - 100
6
Meritorious Achievement
70 - 79
5
Substantial Achievement
60 - 69
4
Adequate Achievement
50 - 59
3
Moderate Achievement
40 - 49
2
Elementary Achievement
30 - 39
1
Not Achieved
0 - 29
Requirements to progress:
The minimum requirements to progress to the next grade (from grade 10 onwards) are: The learner
must obtain at least 40% (level 3) in their Home Language (Main Language)
must obtain at least 40% (level 3) in TWO other subjects
must obtain at least 30% (level 2) in THREE other subjects
may obtain less than 30% (level 2) in ONE subject, but a complete portfolio must be submitted as proof of work
Changing of subjects from Gr 10 - 12:
Officially, the Department of Education (DOE) allows for:
One or more subject change/s in Grade 10
One subject change in Grade 11 or Grade 12, if the school deems it in the best interest of the learner to change a subject. However, a Gr 11/12 subject change needs to be approved by the school and by the Head of Department of the district or his/her delegate.
When a learner changes a subject they might have to:
Catch up on subject content missed
Catch up any tasks already done by the rest of the class needed for CASS (portfolio).
It is therefore better to avoid a situation where changes are needed during Gr. 10, 11 or 12.
Learning fields and subjects:
Subjects are grouped into learning fields. There is no Higher Grade or Standard Grade, subjects are offered at one level only.
Engineering Graphics and Design Mechanical Technology
GRDS MCHT
Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences
Physical Sciences Life Sciences Mathematics Mathematical Literacy Computer Applications Technology
PHSC LFSC MATH MLIT CATN
A brief overview of the choice subjects offered at Dundee High School:
SUBJECT
DESCRIPTION
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
MATH (Mathematics)
Mathematics is based on observations which, with rigorous thinking, lead to theories abstract in nature. MATH enables creative and logical thinking about problems in the real world. It is a discipline in its own right and requires acquisition of knowledge, without necessarily having applications in real life. In MATH competence in investigating, generalizing and proving is more important than acquiring knowledge. It is an important tool for creating, expressing and exploring theoretical aspects of the sciences.
It is essential for any learner who wishes to pursue a career in Physical, Mathematical, Computer, Earth, Space and Environmental Sciences, Technology, Economic and Management Sciences, Health Sciences and all the engineering disciplines.
MLIT (Mathematical Literacy)
Mathematical Literacy provides an awareness and understanding of the role of mathematics in the real world. It gives learners the ability and confidence to think numerically and spatially. It provides learners with opportunities to engage in real life problems in different contexts, and will result in the ability to understand mathematical terminology and information given on graphs, tables or diagrams.
Learners will be able to handle mathematics that affect their lives and thus be prepared for the real world.
CNST (Consumer Studies)
CNST is a combination of Home Economics, Needlework, Consumer Studies and Interior Design. It embraces three areas, namely Food and Nutrition, Clothing and Housing and Furnishing. It has a practical component on one of the above three, with Food and Nutrition the best suited to the facilities available at DHS. CNST focuses on enabling learners to become responsible and informed consumers of food, clothing, housing, furnishings and household equipment, and to use resources optimally and in a sustainable manner.
Production and Marketing, Textiles, Interior design, Hotel Industry, Catering and Tourism, Education, Consumer Board as well as entrepreneurial ventures related to food, clothing and furnishing.
BSTD (Business Studies)
In Business Studies learners will:
Develop business plans and transform them into action plans
Differentiate between management and leadership styles and approaches
Apply conflict management strategies
Gain knowledge of all Acts concerning employees
Business Economists are employed in:
Banks
Financial journals and newspapers
Trade Unions, Political Parties and Employer Organisations
Management and Economic Consultancies
Education
Own business (entrepreneurship)
CATN (Computer Assisted Technology)
Computer Assisted Technology combines both Computer Typing and ICDL. In CATN learners are taught the basic components and working of a computer. Learners are taught how to use all the packages in the MS Office suit, such as PowerPoint, Excel, Word, Access and Publisher. They also learn how to identify types of computers, hardware and components, software, internet security and netiquette.
CATN is useful in all careers as it teaches computer literacy and application.
PHSC (Physical Sciences)
Physical Sciences will provide learners with the knowledge of scientific laws and principles through theory and practical experiments. It covers both Physics (Mechanics; Waves, Sound and Light; Electricity and Magnetism) as well as Chemistry (Matter and Materials; Chemical Change; Chemical Systems).
All Mathematical, Medical, Engineering, Chemical and / or Scientific disciplines require PHSC.
GRDS (Engineering, Graphics and Design)
GRED is closely related to Technical Drawing, and integrates the cognitive and manipulative skills that are used to design and communicate graphically.
Civil and Mechanical Engineering, Architecture and trades such as Draughting, Landscaping, Interior Design and Graphical Design
LFSC (Life Sciences)
Life Sciences will equip learners who want to pursue careers in science or healing (nursing, medicine, medical research, food technology etc.). It covers Human Physiology and diseases; Evolution; Tissues, cells and molecular studies; Structures and processes in basic life systems as well as Environmental studies.
All medical disciplines, including nursing, dentistry, medical research, food technology, marine biology as well as game ranging.
ECON (Economics)
Economics provides a broad understanding of the economic environment in which we live and work. Learners will study the following:
Circular flow
Business cycles and forecasting
Micro-economics - supply and demand
SA import and export strategies
Inflation, unemployment, distribution of wealth and growth
Economists are employed in:
Actuarial work
Banking and financial institutions
Brokers and Investment Firms
Labour and Industrial relations
Law market research
Education
TRSM (Tourism)
TRSM is the study of tourism as a dynamic industry. It is a wide field of study, which can be divided in seven sectors, namely Economics, Accommodation, Transport, Travel, Attractions, Co-ordinators as well as Industrial, Commercial and Destination Organization. The knowledge, skills and values taught prepares the learner for the world as workplace and learners are equipped to identify entrepreneurial opportunities.
Hotel Management, Tour Guides, Lodge Management, Game Ranging, Tour Organizers etc.
MCHT (Mechanical Technology)
MCHT is a combination of Fitting and Turning, Metalwork, Motor Mechanics and Welding Works. It is a technological subject which focuses on processes from conceptual design to practical concept solving and the application of scientific principles.
Mechanical Engineering, Design, Environmental Engineering, Project Management, Metallurgic Engineering, Aircraft technician, Automotive Mechanic, Boilermaker / Fitter & Turner, Earth- moving Equipment manager and careers within Metal Engineering.
GEOG (Geopgraphy)
Geography provides practical and theoretical skills for the learner who wants to pursue a career in environmental sciences. It covers Map Work, Weather and Climate, People and Economies, Ecosystems, Archaeology, Geology as well as Town and Regional Planning.
Four basic career directions include
Geology
Geography / Archaeology
Climatology
City / Town / Regional Planning
ACCN (Accountancy)
In Accountancy, learners will develop a basic financial literacy, and will be able to record, understand and interpret financial transactions and financial statements. The curriculum covers Financial Information, Management Accounting as well as tools to assist in managing resources in business.
Accountant, Financial Information Systems and Services, Auditing, General Administration.
VSLA (Visual Arts)
Visual Arts provides a broad background on various techniques in art and a basic overview of the history of art, so that learners develop their individual artistic potential. The curriculum covers Art History, Art Research, Personal Style Development as well as the use of different materials and techniques.
Art, Graphic Design, Fashion Design, Film and Video Technology, Interior Design, Stage design, Jewellery Design
HOW DO I MAKE MY SUBJECT CHOICES? (Seven steps to success):
STEP 1: Answer some basic questions (the "backward" process):
What do I want to become?
Do I want to study further?
Where do I want to study?
STEP 2: Aptitude testing: If you are unsure about your future career, you might want to consider an aptitude test, either by doing a simple "do-it-yourself" test, or by writing a comprehensive professional aptitude test.
DO-IT-YOURSELF TEST:
What are your abilities, skills, talents and values?
What are your personality traits?
What are your hopes, dreams and ambitions?
What are your interests?
What subjects are enjoyable and are you good at?
Do you want to study further?
Do the PACE computer test for aptitude available in the computer centre at school
Do the Career Field Questionnaire (Available from Mrs. Smuts)
Be realistic
PROFESSIONAL TESTING: There are many centres countrywide that offer career / aptitude testing. Although this might be costly, it provides valuable information regarding subject choices and future career options:
Human Progress Management
Elize Koen, Dr. Willie Koen (snr), Willie Koen (jnr)
Web:
www.hpm.co.za
Tel:
(017) 712 3810 or 0823774052
Fax:
(017) 712 3810
Email:
willie.koen@vodamail.co.za
Chowles Consultants CC trading as The Career Centre
Academic School: Dundee High School is classified as an Academic School which offers academic subjects. Many of these subjects have practical components, but emphasis is placed on theory. Learners can enter the world of work, but also have the option of entering further studies if their academic results are good enough.
FET College: FET Colleges offer courses (Gr 10 - 12) that are generally more practical and career orientated. Learners in a FET College complete a NC (National Certificate) which is focused more on the industry. Learners can enter the world of work immediately after completing their schooling. FET colleges offer a wide variety of courses, including Office Administration, Marketing, Accounting, Building and Construction, Engineering, IT, Agriculture, Beauty, Motor Mechanics etc. Visit www.fetcolleges.co.za for more information. Local FET Colleges include MAJUBA FET with branches in Dundee and Newcastle (034) 329 1184, MTHASHANA FET in Vryheid (034) 980 1010 and MNAMBITHI FET in Ladysmith (036) 638 3800. It is important for parents to know that your children will be treated as "students" - and these colleges will expect the student to take responsibility for class attendance and studies.
STEP 4: Do I want to study further? If yes, where do I want to study? (See end of page for list of different institutions)
University - Offers a degree course; mainly academic training
University of Technology (Technikon) - Offers certificates, diplomas and degrees of technology ; Practically minded; career orientated
Comprehensive University - Combination of university and technikon, offers diploma and degree courses.
Other institutions (i.e. diploma from INTEC, Damelin, Beauty School etc.)
No studies (entrepreneur, family business, apprenticeship, sales)
STEP 5: Be aware of the institution requirements for further study:
Admissions Point Score (APS) - a minimum APS score will be required for entry at University
(NB: Obtaining the minimum score does NOT secure entry - remember you are competing for a certain amount of places - you must exceed the minimum score!)
APS POINTS
To qualify for entry to a diploma course:
PassNSC (Gr 12)
Obtain a minimum rating of 3 (40 - 49%) infour subjects
Institutionrequirements
To qualify for entry to a degreecourse:
PassNSC (Gr 12)
Obtaina minimum rating of 4 (50 - 59%) in four subjects from designated list
Institutionrequirements
%
8
90 - 100
7
80 - 90
6
70 - 79
5
60 - 69
4
50 - 59
3
40 - 49
2
30 - 39
1
0 - 29
Must choose subjects appropriate to studies (as many as possible). Contact institution of further study for specific requirements. A basic guideline of choice subjects is:
- Sciences and Health (MATH, PHSC, LFSC) - Engineering and Technology (MATH, PHSC, GRDS, MCHT) - Business and Economics (MATH or MATHLIT, ACCN, BSTD, ECON, CNST) - Humanities (GEOG, MATH or MATHLIT, CNST, VSLA, TRSM)
Mrs Smuts and Mrs Haschke have a copy of THE CAREER BOOK. Make use of this book to assist you in your choices.
Must have at least four designated subjects:
ACCN
GEOG
AFRIKAANS
*MLIT
BSTD
VSLA
INFT
*ZULU
ECON
CNST
LFSC
GRDS
ENGLISH
MATH
Be aware of subject restrictions:
If you choose PHSC, you must take MATH
If you choose MCHT, you must take MATH and it is strongly recommended that you
also take PHSC.
- You must obtain at least 40% in the language of further education
DO NOT CHOOSE A SUBJECT IF YOU CANNOT REALISTICALLY PASS THE SUBJECT!!!
STEP 6: Be aware of the basic career choice directions
Health, Sciences, Mathematics, Computers
Engineering, Design and Technology
Business, Commerce and Management
Services
Arts
Human, Social and Resource Management
Practical, Entrepreneurship
STEP 7: Now select the choices that will open the most doors in the future AND that you can realistically do well in!
COMPULSORY
Home Language
English (ENGHL)
First Additional Language
Afrikaans (AFRFA) OR IsiZulu (ZULFA)
Life Orientation
LIFE
1 MATHEMATICAL SUBJECT
MATH
MLIT
3 CHOICE SUBJECTS (ONE FROM EACH LINE)
Line 1:
PHSC or BSTD or CNST or CATN
Line 2:
LFSC or ECON or TRSM or GRDS
Line 3:
BSTD or ACCN or GEOG or MCHT or VSLA
Additional subjects may be taken
If the learner is academically capable
must be done after official school time
all tasks and test requirements for CASS mark must be completed
subject must be taken from Gr 10 - 12
Remember that each subject leads to a different career direction: (Subjects marked with a * are DESIGNATED SUBJECTS)
Line 1: PHSC or BSTD or CNST or CATN
PHSC * (Physical Sciences)
Science, Health, Technology
BSTD * (Business Studies)
Business, Commerce, Management
CNST * (Consumer Studies)
Services
CATN(Computer Assisted Technology)
Practical computer skills (entrepreneurship)
Line 2: LFSC or ECON or TRSM or GRDS
LFSC * (Life Sciences)
Science, Health
ECON * (Economics)
Business, Commerce, Management
TRSM (Tourism)
Services
GRDS * (Engineering, Graphics and Design)
Engineering, Architecture, Technology, Design
Line 3: BSTD or ACCN or GEOG or MCHT or VSLA
BSTD * (Business Studies)
Business, Commerce, Management
ACCN * (Accountancy)
Business, Commerce, Management
VSLA * (Visual Arts)
Arts, Artistic Design
GEOG * (Geography)
Human & Social Studies, Resources
MCHT (Mechanical Technology)
Engineering, Technology, Design
A last hint... If in doubt, contact the institutions where you wish to further your studies, for their requirements.
LIST OF VARIOUS INSTITUTIONS OF FURTHER STUDY:
CENTRAL APPLICATION OFFICE (CAO) FOR
Durban University of Technology
Mangosuthu Technikon
UNISA
University of KwaZulu-Natal
University Of Zululand
UNIVERSITIES:
UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN (UCT)
Campus:
Rondebosch, Observatory, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town City Centre
