TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges offer practical, career-oriented qualifications that prepare students for a wide range of jobs in fields like engineering, hospitality, business, and healthcare. To succeed in these programmes, students need access to quality study resources that support both theoretical understanding and hands-on skills.
Best Study Resources for TVET College Students
This guide highlights some of the best resources available to TVET college students in South Africa.
1. Official College Learning Platforms
Most TVET colleges now offer access to online learning platforms where students can find lecture notes, course materials, assignments, and assessments. These platforms may include Moodle, Blackboard, or other institution-specific portals. Students should regularly log into these platforms to stay up to date with their coursework and deadlines.
Tip: If you’re not sure how to access your college’s learning portal, ask your lecturer or check the official college website for login instructions.
2. DHET Online Resources
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) provides free resources aligned with TVET curricula. These include textbooks, subject guidelines, and examination preparation materials. Students can visit the DHET website to download materials for NC(V) and Report 191 (NATED) programmes.
Visit: www.dhet.gov.za
3. National e-Learning Platforms
TVET students can benefit from government-supported digital platforms that provide free access to online courses and learning materials:
- National Open Learning System (NOLS): A platform developed to support TVET students with open learning materials, available at www.nols.gov.za.
- GovChat eLearning: Some provinces also support eLearning through platforms like GovChat, which links students to resources and updates.
These platforms provide video tutorials, digital textbooks, and assessments to reinforce classroom learning.
Also check: Buffalo City TVET College- Apply Online for 2025!
4. Past Exam Papers and Memorandums
One of the most effective ways to prepare for exams is by practising with past question papers. These can help students understand the structure and typical questions asked in exams. TVET colleges often provide printed or digital copies of past papers, and they are also available through the DHET and college libraries.
Pro Tip: Study both the questions and memorandums to learn how marks are allocated and to identify common mistakes.
5. YouTube Educational Channels
YouTube is a goldmine of free educational content, especially for subjects like maths, science, and business studies. Channels such as:
- Mindset Learn
- Exam Papers South Africa
- TVET College Online Resources
These offer tutorials aligned with South African curricula. For practical courses, videos demonstrating hands-on skills—like plumbing, motor mechanics, and hospitality techniques—can be especially valuable.
6. Online Study Communities and WhatsApp Groups
Many students benefit from joining study groups where they can ask questions, share notes, and get support. These are often created by lecturers or senior students and may take place on platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Facebook.
Be cautious, however, about misinformation—always verify answers against official sources or with a lecturer.
7. Libraries and Study Guides
TVET college libraries remain an essential resource. They offer textbooks, past papers, research material, and sometimes even computer access. Many also provide study guides tailored to TVET syllabi, which break down complex topics into manageable sections.
8. Career-Specific Resources
Students in fields like IT, engineering, or business should also explore industry-specific resources such as:
- Codeacademy or Khan Academy for IT and coding.
- AutoCAD tutorials for engineering students.
- SAGE or Pastel accounting tools for business students.
These help bridge the gap between theory and practice, especially in fast-changing fields.
With the right study resources, TVET students can improve their understanding, boost their grades, and gain confidence in their future careers. From official learning portals and DHET materials to YouTube tutorials and peer support groups, a wide variety of tools are available—many of them free. The key is to use a mix of resources regularly and actively, staying engaged with your learning every step of the way.
