Describe how a career portfolio could be beneficial to a grade 11 learner who is approaching the exit grade

On this page, we help students to answer the following question: “Describe how a career portfolio could be beneficial to a Grade 11 learner who is approaching the exit grade.” This is a key requirement for the Life Orientation Grade 11 Source-Based Task Term 1.

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Quick Answer

Benefits of a Career Portfolio:

• Evidence of Skills: It provides physical proof of your achievements andstudy skills.
• Organised Planning: Keeps yourNational Senior Certificaterequirements and IDs in one place.
• Improved Self-Awareness: Helps you match yourpersonal valuesto specificoccupations.
• Professional Edge: Makes you stand out duringnetworkingor scholarship interviews.

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Why Grade 11s Need a Career Portfolio

As a Grade 11 learner approaching the “exit grade” (Grade 12), you are entering a period of significant transition. A career portfolio is a collection of documents that showcase your talents, goals, and progress. It is an essential tool for effective career decision-making.

1. Centralising Essential Documents for Tertiary Applications

When you reach Grade 12, you will need to apply for university or TVET colleges almost immediately.

• The Benefit: A portfolio keeps your Grade 11 reports, certified ID copies, and admission requirements organized.
• The Impact: This reduces excessive stress and ensures you don’t miss application deadlines because you couldn’t find a specific document.

2. Providing Proof of “Soft Skills” and Achievements

An academic report only shows your marks, but a portfolio shows who you are as a person.

• The Benefit: It includes certificates for leadership, community service, or sports.
• The Impact: This is crucial when applying for bursaries or scholarships, as it proves you have a well-rounded character and strong moral conduct.

3. Assisting in Accurate Career Pathing

Many learners experience intrapersonal conflict because they don’t know what they want to do after school.

• The Benefit: By including self-assessment tests and the Khetha document in your portfolio, you can clearly see the link between your interests and future career options.
• The Impact: It allows you to set SMART goals for your matric year based on documented evidence of your strengths.

4. Preparing for the World of Work

Even if you are planning to study further, you may eventually seek a job or internship.

• The Benefit: Building a portfolio in Grade 11 teaches you how to market yourself.
• The Impact: It makes you more confident when networking, as you have a physical or digital folder that proves you are prepared and professional.

Reference for Students:

• Subject: Life Orientation Grade 11
• Source: My Courses (LO Source-Based Task Term 1)
• Topic: Development of the Self in Society / Careers and Career Choices