Training Force SETA (Services Sector Education and Training Authority) plays a vital role in skills development in South Africa. SETA learnerships are structured training programmes that combine theoretical learning and practical workplace experience. They are aimed at unemployed youth, school leavers, and career changers who want to acquire valuable skills and workplace competence. These learnerships are particularly valuable because they help bridge the gap between education and employment, offering practical exposure that employers value.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about Training Force SETA Learnerships — what they are, available programmes, requirements, benefits, duties, application tips, and how to maximise your chances of success.
What Is a SETA Learnership?
A learnership is an education and training programme registered with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and facilitated by a SETA. Training Force SETA partners with employers, training providers, and government initiatives to deliver accredited programmes. Successful learners receive a recognised qualification upon completion.
Learnerships generally consist of two components:
- Theoretical Training: Classroom-based learning aligned with industry standards.
- Practical Workplace Experience: Hands-on training under the supervision of qualified professionals.
The combination of theory and practice prepares learners for real working environments and helps them acquire industry-relevant skills.
Why Choose a Training Force SETA Learnership?
Training Force SETA learnerships offer several advantages:
1. Accredited Qualifications
Most learnerships lead to a nationally recognised qualification that can improve your employability and future career prospects.
2. Real Workplace Experience
You gain on-the-job experience with a host employer, which is highly valued by future employers.
3. Structured Learning
Programmes are structured to support your learning in both theory and practical application.
4. Stipend
Many learnerships offer a monthly stipend to help learners cover basic expenses while training.
5. Career Development
Completing a learnership can lead to permanent employment, further training opportunities, or apprenticeships.
Types of Learnerships Under Training Force SETA
Training Force SETA covers several fields, particularly those related to the services sector and associated industries. Learnerships are offered according to industry needs and are regularly updated. Some common areas include:
1. Business Administration
This programme prepares learners for office and administrative roles. Training includes record keeping, communication skills, basic operations, and office systems.
2. Customer Service
Learners are trained in handling customer queries, maintaining service standards, communication skills, and client support. This field is ideal for people seeking careers in retail, call centres, and front-office environments.
3. Human Resources
Human resources learnerships focus on personnel administration, recruitment support, employee relations, and basic HR functions.
4. Supply Chain and Logistics
This field covers inventory management, warehousing, procurement support, and distribution processes.
5. Retail Operations
Learners receive training in sales floor tasks, cash handling, product knowledge, and customer engagement.
6. Project Management Support
These learnerships prepare learners for supporting project teams, documentation, planning, coordination, and reporting.
7. Finance and Accounting
Training focuses on financial records, invoicing, bookkeeping, accounts processing, and basic financial procedures.
Training Force SETA may also offer other programmes based on labour market needs.
Duration of Learnership Programmes
Learnership durations vary depending on the qualification level and field. Most Training Force SETA learnerships run between 12 and 24 months. During this period, learners will complete both theoretical modules and practical work assignments.
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION/CV HERE
Eligibility and Minimum Requirements
Although each learnership may have specific criteria, general minimum requirements typically include:
1. South African Citizenship
You must be a citizen of South Africa and provide a valid ID.
2. Educational Requirements
- A minimum of Grade 12 (Matric) is often required.
- For some fields, specific subjects such as Mathematics, English, or Accounting may be preferred.
- Equivalent NQF Level 4 qualifications like NCV also count.
3. Age Criteria
There may be age limits (often 18 to 35). Check specific learnership requirements.
4. Commitment
Learners must be willing to complete the full duration of the learnership.
5. Work Readiness
Basic computer literacy, communication skills, and ability to work in a team are assets.
6. No Prior Participation
Some learnerships may require that applicants have not previously completed a similar programme.
Duties and Workplace Responsibilities
Once accepted into a learnership, participants are expected to:
- Attend classroom training and complete assigned modules
- Participate actively in workplace tasks under supervision
- Apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations
- Attend regular assessments and training workshops
- Complete workplace logbooks and records
- Work professionally and follow workplace policies
- Demonstrate discipline, reliability, and continuous improvement
The exact duties vary depending on the field of the learnership.
Training Structure: What to Expect
1. Orientation and Induction
Most programmes begin with an induction to introduce learners to expectations, safety, behaviour standards, and orientation to the workplace.
2. Classroom Training
Learners attend accredited training modules covering theory essential to the qualification.
3. Workplace Rotation
Learners work with host employers where they practise job functions, learn procedures, and build competence.
4. Mentorship
Experienced staff provide guidance throughout the learnership to support on-the-job development.
5. Assessments and Evaluations
Learners are assessed periodically through tests, practical evaluations, portfolios, and workplace performance reviews.
Benefits of Completing a Learnership
Successful completion offers significant benefits:
- Nationally recognised qualification
- Improved job market competitiveness
- Practical experience in real work environments
- Exposure to industry professionals and processes
- Monthly stipend (if provided)
- Networking and future job opportunities
- Qualifications that align with sector needs
Completing a learnership equips learners with valuable skills and boosts confidence in their chosen career pathway.
Application Process: Steps to Apply
While application procedures may vary depending on employer partners and intake cycles, the general process is as follows:
1. Prepare Your Documents
Compile the following:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified Matric certificate and results
- Proof of residence
- Any additional certifications
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION/CV HERE
2. Select the Learnership
Choose the specific learnership you want to apply for based on your skills and career goals.
3. Complete the Application Form
Fill in the official application form as required by the training provider or employer partner.
4. Attach Supporting Documents
Make sure all required attachments are included and certified.
5. Submit Before the Closing Date
Submit your application before the published deadline. Late applications are usually not considered.
6. Interview and Selection
Shortlisted candidates may be called for interviews and assessments.
Common Fields for Training Force SETA Learnerships
Training Force SETA typically offers learnerships in areas that support the services sector and related industries. Common fields include:
- Business Administration
- Customer Service
- Human Resources
- Supply Chain Management
- Retail Operations
- Finance and Accounting
- Project Support
- Logistics and Distribution
Each field supports different career paths; choose the one most aligned with your interests and skills.
Working With Host Employers
Training Force SETA partners with multiple host employers across sectors. Learners may be placed in organisations where they:
- Gain real workplace exposure
- Receive supervision from experienced staff
- Participate in business operations
- Understand workplace culture and expectations
These placements are key to building confidence and competence.
After Completing Your Learnership
After successfully finishing your learnership, options include:
- Permanent employment with the host employer
- Further studies or advanced qualifications
- Apprenticeship or internship opportunities
- Entry-level roles in related industries
Completing a learnership gives you a foundation upon which to build a long-term career.
Final Thoughts
Training Force SETA learnerships are powerful opportunities for young South Africans to acquire accredited qualifications, hands-on experience, and workplace readiness. By combining training with real work exposure, these programmes help learners transition from education to employment. Whether your goals lie in business administration, logistics, finance, or customer service, a SETA learnership provides the pathways and tools you need to succeed.