Introduction: Why FASSET Learnerships Matter
FASSET (Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority) plays a critical role in developing scarce and critical skills in South Africa’s finance and accounting sector. Through accredited learnership programmes, FASSET supports individuals who want to build professional careers while gaining real workplace experience.
These learnerships are especially valuable for employed learners, graduates, and entry-level job seekers who want recognised qualifications without following the traditional university route. Many FASSET learnerships are delivered in partnership with respected professional bodies such as the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) and SAICA, ensuring strong industry credibility.
Below is a detailed breakdown of five key FASSET learnership programmes that open doors to accounting, finance, and local government careers.
1. Advanced Certificate: Local Government Accounting (LGAAC)
Overview
This learnership leads to the Advanced Certificate: Local Government Accounting, awarded by AAT and delivered in South Africa through AAT (SA). It is specifically designed for individuals working in or entering local government finance roles.
The qualification sits:
- Above the Local Government Accounting Certificate
- Below chartered accountancy level
This makes it an ideal progression route for municipal finance staff and public-sector professionals.
Learnership Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Completed the NQF Level 3 Local Government Accounting Certificate, or
- Relevant work experience aligned to Level 3 outcomes
- Communication and Mathematics competence at NQF Level 3
- Adequate English literacy and numeracy
Learners must be employed in local government or placed under learnership conditions.
Structure and Duration
- Registered at NQF Level 4
- Progresses to AAT (SA) Higher Certificate (NQF Level 5)
- Duration: 12–18 months
Key Learning Areas
- Financial accounting and reporting
- Cost information recording
- Cash management and credit control
- Computerised accounting systems
- Financial information for decision-making
Successful learners qualify for AAT (SA) membership.
2. Accounting Technician Learnership (NQF Level 3)
Overview
This learnership is an entry-level programme aimed at individuals starting a career in accounting. It introduces learners to core bookkeeping and accounting principles and prepares them for technician-level roles.
Accounting technicians are in demand across:
Related Opportunities 2026
- Accounting practices
- Industry and commerce
- Public sector organisations
Entry Requirements
- No formal qualification required
- Good literacy and numeracy
- Ability to complete assessments in English
- Must be employed during the learnership
Learning Outcomes
Learners gain skills in:
- Double-entry bookkeeping
- Cash books and bank reconciliations
- Journals and control accounts
- Computerised accounting systems
- Basic costing principles
Duration and Qualification
- Duration: 6–12 months
- Leads to AAT Certificate: Accounting Technician
- Results in AAT (SA) Silver Membership
3. Professional Accountant in Practice Learnership
Overview
Despite the name, this learnership is also structured around the Accounting Technician qualification and is suitable for learners preparing for work in accounting environments.
It serves as a foundation for those who want to progress toward higher accounting roles over time.
Requirements
- No formal academic requirements
- English literacy and numeracy
- Employment required
Skills Covered
- Processing financial transactions
- Trial balance preparation
- Cash and banking procedures
- Computerised accounting systems
- Cost and revenue analysis
Duration
- Typically 6–12 months
- Awarded the AAT Accounting Technician qualification upon completion
4. FASSET Learnership: Diploma in Accounting Technician (NQF Level 5)
Overview
This is a comprehensive, multi-level learnership leading to the AAT Accounting Qualification. It is ideal for learners who want long-term career growth in accounting and finance.
Qualification Pathway
The programme includes three progressive levels:
Certificate in Accounting
- Introductory accounting
- Double-entry bookkeeping
- Accounting work skills
Advanced Certificate in Accounting
- Financial accounting
- Cost and revenue analysis
- Professional ethics
Diploma in Accounting
- Financial statements drafting
- Management accounting
- Taxation and auditing electives
Duration
- 2 to 3 years, depending on learner progress
- Leads to full AAT (SA) membership
This learnership is suitable for learners aiming for supervisory, senior accounting, or specialist roles.
5. FASSET Learnership: Certificate in Accounting (NQF Level 5)
Overview
This learnership targets learners who already have foundational accounting knowledge and want to advance into higher-level accounting responsibilities.
Entry Requirements
- Ideally completed NQF Level 4 Accounting Technician
- Alternatively, proven competence through experience or assessments
- English literacy and numeracy
- Employment required
Core Learning Areas
- Drafting financial statements
- Budgeting and financial performance
- Internal control systems
Elective Options
Learners choose two electives, including:
- Business taxation
- Personal taxation
- External auditing
- Credit management
Duration and Outcome
- Duration: 12–18 months
- Leads to AAT (SA) Platinum Membership
Career Pathways After FASSET Learnerships
Completing a FASSET learnership can lead to careers such as:
- Accounting Technician
- Financial Officer
- Municipal Finance Practitioner
- Senior Accounting Clerk
- Management Accountant (with further study)
These programmes also create pathways to professional designations and higher education.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are FASSET learnerships accredited?
Yes. All listed learnerships are SETA-aligned and nationally accredited through AAT (SA).
Do I need work experience to apply?
Some programmes require employment, while others accept entry-level learners placed under learnership contracts.
Are these learnerships paid?
Stipends depend on the employer or municipality offering the learnership.
Can I study further after completing a learnership?
Yes. Many learners progress to higher qualifications or professional memberships.
Who should I contact for more information?
AAT (SA) representatives listed in each programme can provide guidance on registration and assessment centres.
Final Thoughts
FASSET learnership programmes provide practical, industry-recognised pathways into accounting and finance careers in South Africa. Whether you are entering the field, working in local government, or seeking career advancement, these learnerships combine real workplace experience, professional qualifications, and long-term career value.
If you meet the requirements and are serious about building a future in finance or accounting, applying for a FASSET learnership could be a decisive step toward professional success. CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR LEARNERSHIPS
20 Benefits of FASSET Learnership Programmes
- Nationally Recognised Qualifications
All FASSET learnerships are SETA-aligned and nationally accredited, ensuring your qualification is recognised across South Africa. - Industry-Relevant Skills
Learners gain practical accounting and finance skills that align directly with real workplace requirements. - Earn While You Learn
Many learnerships offer a monthly stipend, allowing learners to gain skills while receiving financial support. - Real Workplace Experience
Learnerships combine theory with hands-on workplace training, making learners job-ready. - Improved Employability
Employers value candidates with both qualifications and experience, increasing job prospects. - Professional Body Membership
Successful learners qualify for AAT (SA) membership, enhancing professional credibility. - Career Progression Opportunities
Learnerships provide clear pathways to advanced qualifications and senior accounting roles. - Accessible Entry into Accounting Careers
Some programmes require no prior qualifications, making them ideal for beginners. - Opportunities Across All Sectors
Accounting technicians are needed in public sector, private companies, and municipalities. - Structured Learning Environment
Learners receive guided training, assessments, and mentoring throughout the programme. - Skills in High Demand
Accounting and finance skills remain scarce and in demand across South Africa. - Workplace Readiness
Learners develop discipline, time management, and professional communication skills. - Pathway to Management Roles
Programmes can lead to supervisory, senior technician, or management positions. - Flexible Career Mobility
Skills gained are transferable across industries and employers. - Recognition by Employers
FASSET and AAT qualifications are trusted by employers nationwide. - Support for Transformation and Inclusion
Learnerships support employment equity and skills development objectives. - No University Degree Required
Learners can build professional careers without attending traditional universities. - Opportunity for Long-Term Employment
Many learners are absorbed into permanent roles after completion. - Professional Ethics Training
Learners are trained in ethical standards required in financial environments. - Foundation for Lifelong Learning
Learnerships prepare learners for further studies, certifications, and professional growth.
