Discover what a Services SETA Learnership is, who qualifies, the benefits, and how to apply for these accredited programmes in South Africa.
What Is a Services SETA Learnership?
A Services SETA Learnership is an accredited training programme in South Africa that combines classroom instruction with real-world work experience. Designed to provide practical skills and a national qualification, these programmes cover key industries such as personal care, business services, real estate, cleaning, marketing, and human resources.
These learnerships are governed by the Services Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) and contribute directly to national skills development goals. Most programmes run for 12 to 24 months and include a monthly stipend. On successful completion, learners receive qualifications aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Why Services SETA Learnerships Matter
Services SETA programmes are important for three key reasons:
- Practical Training and Accreditation
They provide industry-relevant, job-ready skills along with formal certification. - Career Entry in High-Demand Sectors
These learnerships open doors in diverse and growing sectors such as business support, beauty, and real estate. - Financial Support While You Learn
Participants usually receive monthly stipends, making the programme more accessible to young or unemployed individuals.
Who Qualifies for Services SETA Learnerships?
To qualify, applicants typically need to:
- Be South African citizens or permanent residents aged between 18 and 35
- Hold a Grade 12 (Matric) certificate or equivalent qualification
- Be unemployed or underemployed
- Not be enrolled in another funded programme
- Commit to the full duration of the learnership (usually 12–24 months)
Some entry-level learnerships accept Grade 10 or NQF Level 2 qualifications.
Learnerships Available in 2025
Available fields include:
- Personal Care (hairdressing, beauty therapy, nail technology)
- Business Services (office admin, customer care, receptionist training)
- Cleaning Services (facility cleaning, hygiene services)
- Marketing & Communications (brand promotion, digital media basics)
- Real Estate & Property Services (real estate administration, front desk services)
- Labour & HR Services (recruitment support, workplace safety awareness)
Each learnership blends classroom sessions with actual work placement.
What You’ll Gain from the Programme
Accredited Qualification
All learnerships lead to formal certification on the NQF system.
Workplace Readiness
You gain real-world experience and learn on the job.
Stipends Provided
Monthly allowances help cover transport and basic living expenses.
Coaching and Support
Learners receive mentorship throughout their placement.
Career Opportunities
Graduates may be absorbed into full-time roles or pursue further training.
How to Apply for Services SETA Learnerships
Documents You’ll Need:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Updated CV
- Proof of residence
- Certified school qualifications
- Optional motivational letter
Where and How to Apply:
- Register on the Services SETA Learner Portal
- Search for open learnerships by sector or region
- Complete and submit your online application
- Respond to assessments or interviews if shortlisted
- Sign a learnership agreement upon acceptance
Always ensure your documents are up-to-date and certified.
Responsibilities as a Learner
Once accepted, you will need to:
- Attend both theory and workplace sessions
- Respect the workplace and comply with training expectations
- Submit required assignments and attend assessments
- Commit to completing the entire programme duration
- Report any issues through proper channels
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Customize your CV for the sector you’re applying to
- Practice for assessments in literacy or numeracy
- Submit early and double-check your documentation
- Use a professional email address and contact number
- Prepare for interviews by researching your field of interest
What If You’re Outside the Typical Age Group?
- Applicants under 18 may be considered for trades or entry-level programmes
- Over 35? Some learnerships for upskilling employed individuals may accept older applicants
- Always check with accredited training providers or the SETA for specific age policies
Where This Can Lead
Graduates of Services SETA learnerships often move into:
- Full-time employment with host employers
- Further education or advanced training
- Self-employment in personal care or service fields
- Internships or apprenticeships in aligned sectors
A learnership is more than a qualification—it’s a gateway to long-term growth and independence.
Overview Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Programme Type | Accredited Learnership |
| Duration | 12–24 months |
| Monthly Stipend | Yes |
| Target Group | South Africans aged 18–35 |
| Required Qualification | Matric or equivalent (NQF Level 4) |
| Employment Status | Unemployed or underemployed |
| Industries Covered | Business services, personal care, marketing, cleaning, real estate |
| Certification Outcome | NQF-aligned qualification |
Final Thoughts
A Services SETA Learnership is a strong starting point for anyone looking to build a career in South Africa’s service sector. With free training, real work experience, and an accredited certificate, the programme provides more than just a foot in the door—it creates opportunities for growth, stability, and independence.
If you’re between 18 and 35 and meet the qualifications, don’t wait—register, prepare your documents, and start applying today.
