Work Based Learning (WBL)
What is WBL?
Work-based learning (“WBL”) is the basis of the Normative Skills programme where skills students are exposed to in the Normative Skills workshop and modules can be put in practice and developed in the workplace.
WBL aims to close the Gap between theory and practice when it comes to Normative Skills to form a well-rounded Actuarial Professional.
The WBL process is an excellent introduction into the CPD process that you will embark on after qualifying.
Who should do WBL?
All students that embark on the Normative Skills – Core APP and then continue on to Fellowship APP should register for WBL. Please refer to the WBL Chapter in the Student Handbook for more information.
WBL Online System
ASSA online WBL system:
WBL Online SystemThe online WBL system is based on a workflow solution that manages the submissions and approvals between students, supervisors and reviewers. Email notification will be sent out if you are required to interact with the system and submit or approve information.
Who can be a Supervisor?
- A supervisor is a Fellow of ASSA that works in the same company or industry as you.
- If your supervisor is not your line manager there must be effective communication between them.
- If you are working in a non-traditional field and no Fellows are available to select as a Supervisor, please contact ASSA Education to assist you in finding a Supervisor.
- Download your Supervisor Guide to WBL for more information and details
WBL progress required to register for NS modules:
To ensure ongoing WBL development ASSA introduced a set of minimum WBL progress requirements before a student may enter a specific NS module. View these requirements HERE
Registration and Eligibility
Do I need to register for WBL annually?
No. You register for Core APP WBL (N311.01) once when you start working and Fellowship WBL (N411.01) once after completing and submitting your Core APP program for final review and approval by your supervisor and external assessor.
Can I register for WBL after working for a few years?
Yes. If you register late, you must provide evidence (e.g., an employment letter) confirming your work experience and supervision under a Fellow. Once verified, you can retrospectively submit your portfolio evidence, and your start date may be adjusted accordingly.
Can I register for Fellowship WBL while waiting for my supervisor’s final sign-off on Core APP WBL?
Yes, you may register for Fellowship WBL after submitting your full Core APP WBL program for review. However, you cannot attend professionalism courses until all academic and WBL requirements are fully completed and signed off.
Can I register for Normative Skills (NS) Module 2 or 3 while enrolled in WBL?
Yes, but Normative Skills courses have prerequisites, including WBL progress. For NS Module 2, you must have:
- Completed 4 months of supervised and recorded WBL
- Submitted an action plan for the skills you plan to develop
NS courses run three times per year, and you may take one module per session in the required order.
Can I pause my WBL if I take a career break or maternity leave?
Yes, the platform allows you to pause your WBL. You can enter your leave dates and reason in your profile settings.
Supervision and Support
Who can be my WBL supervisor?
- Your supervisor must be a Fellow Actuary, preferably working within your organization. Choose someone who works closely with you for maximum guidance.
- NB: Associate Actuaries cannot supervise WBL.
What if my organization has no Fellows available?
You may approach a Fellow outside of your organisation who is willing to supervise you. You may also select your line manager to guide and mentor you even if they are not an ASSA member e.g. you report to the CEO and s/he is a Chartered Accountant. They will be registered as non-members and as your line-manager in the WBL system but will not have full member rights. A Fellow must still sign off on your completed WBL program. ASSA can assist in identifying a Fellow for final approval.
What should I do if I cannot find a supervisor?
Contact assaadmin@actuarialsociety.org.za, and they will help connect you with a qualified Fellow willing to supervise WBL candidates.
Can I have more than one supervisor?
The system allows only one registered Fellow supervisor for official sign-offs. However, you may select your line manager if there are no Fellows in your organisation, you will then have 2 supervisors on your profile. Your supervisor can consult other professionals for additional input if they wish to.
Can an IFoA Fellow or a Fellow from another actuarial body be my supervisor?
Yes, if they are from an actuarial body with a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) with ASSA. They must be added to the ASSA system if they are not already members. Contact assaadmin@actuarialsociety.org.za for assistance.
Can I change my supervisor?
Yes. However, ensure all pending approvals are signed off before making the change.
Self-Assessment and Action Plan
Why is self-assessment required?
Self-assessment establishes your baseline skills and helps track development. You can also provide evidence of prior experience for skills you’ve already gained.
Does my supervisor need to review my self-assessment?
Yes. You and your supervisor should discuss it to align on experience, development needs, and focus areas.
Can I mark a skill as completed during self-assessment?
Yes, but you must provide supporting evidence when marking a skill as “Completed”.
What does completing a self-assessment involve?
You must:
- Select a proficiency level for each skill
- Provide evidence for skills marked as “Started” or “Completed”
Why can't my supervisor sign off on my completed self-assessment skills?
You must complete the full self-assessment before your supervisor can approve individual skills.
What is an Action Plan?
An Action Plan outlines how you will develop selected skills, listing relevant projects, tasks, training, mentoring, or self-study, along with timelines.
Can I update my Action Plan later?
You can document changes in the Comments field on the WBL platform.
Can I submit a skill without a prior Action Plan?
Yes. If an unexpected opportunity arises, you can create a retrospective Action Plan.
Can my supervisor view my Action Plans before I complete self-assessment?
No. You must complete and submit your self-assessment before supervisors can review your Action Plans.
Can I switch focus to a different skill after selecting one?
Yes, just add a comment explaining the change and select a new skill with a revised Action Plan.
Do I need to wait for supervisor approval before developing skills?
No, but you cannot document progress in the system until your Action Plan is approved.
Skills Development and Evidence Submission
What is the difference between "Started" and "Completed" skills?
- Started: You have identified a gap and created an Action Plan.
- Completed: You are fully competent, and your supervisor is confident in signing off with supporting evidence.
When should I document my development?
Regularly – set aside time monthly to record progress instead of waiting until the end.
When should I submit a skill for supervisor approval?
You can submit once you believe you have sufficient progress and evidence for sign-off.
What qualifies as valid evidence for skills development?
Evidence may include:
- Training attended
- Mentoring received
- Work deliverables (excluding confidential content)
- Project contributions
What if my evidence is confidential?
Describe it in the Notes section and provide the name of a senior colleague who can verify your work. Do not upload confidential documents.
Should I remove confidential details before uploading evidence?
ASSA does not require you to redo work. Instead, mark confidential documents as protected on the WBL platform so only your supervisor can access them.
What if my supervisor provides minimal comments when signing off?
You may request more detailed feedback, especially if an assessor requires it.
Review Questions
Where can I find the review questions?
They are available on the WBL platform after completing your self-assessment.
Can I complete all four review questions at once?
Yes, but it is recommended to space them out every 4 – 6 months to ensure thorough research and insight.
What is the expected length of a review question essay?
A minimum of 500 words, but the focus should be on logical problem-solving and application of actuarial knowledge.
General and Special Cases
How much time does WBL require?
- Self-Assessment: The most time-consuming step (done once).
- Development Tracking: 30 – 40 minutes monthly for updates.
- Supervisor Review: 30 – 40 minutes monthly to discuss progress.
- Review Questions: Should be planned and researched over time.
Can I catch up if I fall behind, or must I restart?
You can catch up by backdating documentation and providing evidence.
What if I don’t work in a traditional actuarial role?
WBL includes soft skills (e.g., management, communication, professionalism). You may submit non-traditional skills relevant to your work. However you will be required to provide evidence of how your technical skills are being developed to progress.
If I complete all the requirements and my supervisor is ready to sign off but I am still writing exams can my WBL get signed off?
Yes, your supervisor may sign off your Fellowship WBL, but you will have to register for Extended WBL [N411.03] until you meet the requirements to qualify.
One review question and 1 skill of your own choosing is required annually, regardless of program duration.
What if I have more than five years of experience but never engaged with WBL?
Complete a Self-Assessment and provide backdated evidence. Prior performance reviews or employer letters may help demonstrate skill proficiency.
What happens after I submit all skills and review questions?
Your program undergoes external assessment by ASSA. If additional information is required, you must work with your supervisor to provide it.