Learnerships

Introduction

Learnerships are one of the most valuable opportunities available to young people in South Africa. They provide a combination of theoretical training and practical workplace experience, allowing individuals to gain recognized qualifications while earning a monthly stipend. A learnership can open the door to employment, help you gain essential skills and boost your career prospects, especially if you are just starting out or looking to enter a specific industry.

A well-chosen learnership gives you hands-on experience, industry knowledge and an accredited certificate making you more competitive in today’s job market. This guide explains everything you need to know about learnerships, how they work, who qualifies and how you can successfully apply.

1. Understanding Learnerships

Learnerships are structured programmes that combine classroom-based learning with real workplace exposure. They are registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and lead to a recognized qualification.

Here are the key components:

Theoretical Training

You attend classes or online sessions to learn the academic part of the qualification.

Practical Workplace Experience

You work inside a real company, gaining experience that helps you understand how the industry operates.

SETA Accreditation

Learnerships are funded and monitored by Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) to ensure quality and fairness.

Stipend

Learners receive a monthly stipend to support basic needs such as transport and meals.

2. Benefits of a Learnership

Choosing a learnership offers several important advantages:

Earn While You Learn

Unlike traditional study, learnerships give you income while you train.

Gain a Nationally Recognized Qualification

At completion, you receive a certificate registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).

Work Experience That Boosts Your CV

Experience is one of the most important factors employers consider. A learnership gives you that advantage.

Improved Employability

Companies often prefer hiring people who already understand the workplace environment.

Possible Permanent Employment

Many learners are absorbed as full-time employees after completing the programme.

3. Who Qualifies for a Learnership?

To be eligible for most learnerships in South Africa, you must meet these basic requirements:

Be a South African citizen
Be between the ages of 18 and 35
Be unemployed at the time of application
Have Grade 12 or the highest qualification required
Be able to speak and write English
Have an updated CV and certified documents

Depending on the industry, additional requirements may include:

Computer literacy
A driver’s license
Specific subjects (e.g., Maths, Accounting, Science)
Previous short courses

4. How to Apply for a Learnership

Applying for a learnership successfully requires preparation and attention to detail. Follow these steps:

Research Available Opportunities

Look for learnerships on company websites, SETA portals and career platforms.

Prepare Your Documents

You will need:

Certified ID copy
Certified matric certificate
Updated CV
Proof of address
Qualifications or short course certificates

Submit Your Application

Most companies allow you to apply online or via email. Ensure your CV and documents are clear and correctly labeled.

Attend Interviews and Assessments

You may be invited for aptitude tests, interviews or group assessments.

Sign the Learnership Agreement

If accepted, you sign a contract with the employer, training provider and SETA.

5. Popular Learnership Fields

Many industries offer learnerships, giving you a wide range of options depending on your interests and strengths.

Business & Administration

Including HR, office admin, receptionist and call Centre learnerships.

Banking & Finance

Offered by Capitec, FNB, Nedbank, ABSA and Standard Bank.

Information Technology (IT)

Covering software development, technical support, cybersecurity and networking.

Engineering & Technical Trades

In fields such as electrical, mechanical, welding, fitting and turning.

Retail & Sales

Offered by major retailers like Shoprite, Checkers, Pick n Pay and Woolworths.

Government Learnerships

Including SAPS, Home Affairs, Municipalities and SETA programmes.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

To increase your chances of being selected, avoid the following:

Using an Unprofessional CV

Your CV must be neat, updated and relevant.

Submitting Uncertified or Expired Documents

Documents must be certified within the last 3 months.

Applying Without Reading Requirements

Only apply for programmes you qualify for.

Missing Application Deadlines

Learnerships are competitive; submit early.

7. Additional Tips for Success

Use a Professional Email Address

For example: firstname.lastname@gmail.com

Check Your Emails Daily

Companies may contact you for interviews with short notice.

Improve Your Skills

Short online courses (e.g., computer skills) increase your chances.

Stay Consistent and Apply Often

The more you apply, the higher your chances.

Conclusion

A learnership is one of the best stepping stones into the job market, especially for youth with limited experience. It provides valuable hands-on training, a recognized qualification and an opportunity to start building your career. By understanding how learnerships work and following the application tips provided above, you can significantly increase your chances of being selected for the right programme.

Learnerships remain one of the most effective pathways to full-time employment, career growth and long-term success. Stay committed, keep applying and take advantage of every opportunity available.