How to Apply for 2025 HR Learnership Programmes in South Africa: Your Gateway to a Career in People Management
Learn how to apply for HR learnership programmes in South Africa for 2025: eligibility, what you’ll learn, application steps and tips.
If you’re looking to break into HR but lack formal experience, this guide is your roadmap. It explains what HR learnerships are, who qualifies, how to apply, what to expect, and how to stand out from other applicants.
What Is an HR Learnership and Why It Matters
A learnership in South Africa is a formal training programme combining classroom theory with practical on-the-job experience. HR learnerships are typically aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), usually at Level 4 or 5, and culminate in a nationally recognised qualification.
They are coordinated by Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), such as the Services SETA, and are designed to equip learners with practical HR-related skills. These include recruitment administration, payroll assistance, onboarding, labour law knowledge, and employee record management.
These programmes are about more than academic training—they build professional confidence and improve employability.
Who Is Eligible for HR Learnerships in 2025?
General Entry Criteria
Most HR learnerships share the following requirements:
- South African citizen aged 18–35
- Grade 12/Matric certificate or equivalent
- Currently unemployed or seeking skills development
- Clear criminal record
- Good communication and basic computer skills
Specific Opportunities for Graduates
Some HR learnerships target recent graduates or those with TVET college diplomas:
- Sasol HR Administration Learnership: for candidates with Grade 12, focusing on admin-related tasks.
- Life Hilton Private Hospital HR Learnership: for candidates with a diploma from a TVET college.
- Coca-Cola Beverages HR Learnership: aimed at people with disabilities, offering inclusive HR training.
- Old Mutual Human Capital Learnership: for youth supporting recruitment admin, training logistics, and internal HR functions.
Each programme will have its own criteria and documents required.
What You’ll Learn and Do During the Learnership
Over a typical 12-month period, learners receive training in:
- Recruitment process management
- Interview scheduling and candidate communication
- Induction and training support
- HR data capturing and filing
- Labour law and employee wellness
- Payroll systems and HR information systems
The programme includes structured training sessions and supervised work within a host company’s HR department.
Where to Find HR Learnership Opportunities
Primary Sources
- SETA websites (e.g. Services SETA)
- HR departments of major companies such as Sasol, Coca-Cola Beverages, Old Mutual, and Life Healthcare
- Official job boards and portals for learnership postings
Other Reliable Sources
- Government youth centres and career offices
- Community employment WhatsApp groups
- Career expos and university job fairs
Be sure to always check for authenticity and never pay for a learnership application.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an HR Learnership
1. Prepare Your Documents
You will typically need:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate or TVET diploma
- Updated and professional CV
- Motivational letter (optional but recommended)
- Proof of address or disability (if required)
Ensure that your certifications are recent (within the last 3 months).
2. Write a Strong CV and Cover Letter
Tailor your application for HR. Highlight:
- People skills
- Experience (even informal) in admin or customer service
- Ability to work with confidential information
- Interest in people development and organisational growth
A focused motivation letter can help you stand out by explaining why you’re passionate about HR and eager to learn.
3. Submit Your Application
Submit your documents through the correct portal—usually the careers page of the company or official SETA website.
Deadlines are strict, and early applications are encouraged. For example, many 2025 learnerships closed between January and March.
4. Get Ready for Assessments and Interviews
If shortlisted, you may be asked to:
- Participate in telephone or face-to-face interviews
- Complete computer literacy, numeracy, or communication tests
- Provide references or attend group assessment activities
Dress neatly, speak clearly, and show your interest in personal and professional growth.
What to Expect During the Learnership
Classroom Training
You will attend scheduled classes focusing on:
- HR principles and labour legislation
- Payroll basics and HRMS software training
- Professional communication and report writing
- Conflict management, teamwork, and ethics
Practical Work Experience
You may assist with:
- Candidate screening and interview scheduling
- Processing HR documentation and contracts
- Filing and digital HR systems
- Managing training registers and employee files
- Supporting employee wellness programmes
You will likely be assigned a mentor or supervisor who will guide your practical learning.
Certification
On successful completion, you’ll receive an NQF Level 4 or 5 qualification. This is recognised nationally and adds real value to your resume.
Most programmes also offer a monthly stipend, often between R3,500 and R6,000, to support living costs during your participation.
Tips from Past Participants
Learners who’ve completed HR learnerships often say the experience gave them:
- Practical insight into HR operations
- Confidence and professional etiquette
- Valuable references and job leads
- An edge over others in job interviews
Some even received permanent offers from their host companies after completing the programme.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Tip to Avoid It |
|---|---|
| Applying late | Set reminders and apply early |
| Submitting wrong documents | Double-check requirements before sending |
| Sending a generic CV | Tailor it specifically to HR |
| Not responding to interview calls | Check emails and messages regularly |
| Falling for scams | Never pay to apply or share bank info |
How to Stand Out from the Crowd
- Apply as soon as applications open
- Make your CV short but powerful—one page is fine
- Emphasise your communication skills and ethics
- Use a clean email address (your name, no slang)
- Follow instructions exactly and proofread documents
What Happens After the Learnership
After completion, you will be ready to apply for:
- HR Administrator or Assistant roles
- Recruitment Coordinator positions
- Payroll and HR Data Entry jobs
- Further studies in HR Management
You’ll also have one of the most important assets: professional experience.
Many companies value learnerships more than pure academic study, especially when deciding between entry-level candidates.
Your Application Checklist
| Task | Status |
|---|---|
| Certified copy of ID | |
| Certified Matric certificate | |
| CV updated | |
| Motivation letter written | |
| Documents submitted | |
| Interview preparation done |
Use this checklist to stay organised during your learnership journey.
Final Thoughts: Take the First Step Toward a Career in HR
HR learnerships open the door to a respected, people-focused career. If you have the drive to work with others, solve workplace challenges, and help organisations grow, then Human Resources might be the right fit for you.
With opportunities available in both the private and public sectors, 2025 could be your launch year.
