SETA Invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their QCTO Learnership Vacancies. The closing date for applications is the 30th of September 2025.
What Is a QCTO Learnership?
A QCTO (Quality Council for Trades and Occupations) learnership is a paid training program that blends real‑world work experience with classroom learning.
- QCTO sets national standards so every learner gets the same high‑quality training.
- SETA (Sector Education and Training Authority) runs the program in a specific industry, pays for it, and makes sure it sticks to the plan.
The result? You earn a recognized qualification and a monthly stipend while you learn on the job.
How SETAs Work With QCTO
| SETA | What They Do | Example Industries |
|---|---|---|
| Services SETA | Focuses on business, office, and administrative skills | Office assistants, clerical roles |
| MICT SETA | Covers media, IT, and telecom | Digital marketing, software development |
| CATHSSETA | Handles hospitality and tourism | Hotel management, culinary arts |
SETA provides the money, the jobs, and the monitoring, while QCTO gives the accreditation.
Finding the Right Learnership
- Search Online – Check official job boards, career portals, and the websites of the companies you like.
- Check Accreditation – Make sure the program says “QCTO‑accredited” and “funded by a SETA”.
- Read the Details – Look at the training length, stipend amount, and job sector.
Step‑by‑Step Application Process
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
| Document | Why You Need It | How to Get It |
|---|---|---|
| CV (Resume) | Shows your background and skills | Write a clear list of studies, jobs, and hobbies |
| ID Copy | Proof of identity | Make a certified photocopy |
| Highest Certificate | Shows your qualification level | Get a certified copy (Matric or above) |
| Proof of Residence (if required) | Confirms where you live | Utility bill or rental agreement |
| Income Statement (for some programs) | Helps calculate stipend | Bank statement or proof of support |
Step 2: Submit Your Application
- Online Form – Most SETAs ask you to fill out a webpage form.
- Upload Documents – Attach PDFs or scans of the items above.
- Email (if needed) – Some programs still use email; attach the same docs.
- Drop‑off (rare) – If a local office is your only option, bring the files in person.
Important: Finish everything before the closing date. Late or missing files won’t get a second look.
What Happens After You Apply
- Acceptance Letter – You’ll get a confirmation that you’ve been chosen.
- Induction Pack – This folder explains how the stipend works, your training schedule, how many days you must attend, and who to contact if you have questions.
- Contract Signing – You’ll sign a learnership contract. Only after that can you start receiving the stipend.
Stipend Details
- Monthly Payment – Usually covers transport, food, and small living costs.
- Eligibility – You must sign the contract and be fully registered in the QCTO‑accredited program.
- Payment Schedule – Stipends are paid every month, often at the end of the pay period.
Your First Day and Training
- Orientation – Learn about your workplace, rules, and safety.
- Mentor Assignment – A senior worker will guide you.
- Learning Plan – You’ll see the mix of hands‑on work and classroom lessons.
- Attendance Tracking – Keep a log; missing too many days may affect your stipend.
Career Path After Completing the Learnership
- Official Qualification – The certificate is nationally recognized.
- Practical Experience – You’ve worked in the real industry, not just on paper.
- Mentorship Benefits – You’ll still have contacts and support from your mentor.
- Job Opportunities – Many companies keep learners on after training; others use the qualification to advance or start a small business.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What if I’m not a South African citizen? | Many SETA programs accept permanent residents, but you must check the specific eligibility rules. |
| Can I apply for more than one learnership? | Yes, but you must follow each program’s deadline and never enlist in two simultaneously. |
| Is the stipend enough to live on? | It covers basic needs; you might still need your own savings for extras like entertainment or school fees. |
| What if I drop out early? | You may lose the stipend and have to pay back part of it. Check the contract terms. |
| Do I need to speak English? | Most documents and training are in English; basic proficiency helps. |
Start Your Journey Today
A QCTO‑accredited learnership is more than a job—it’s a stepping‑stone to a future career. By understanding how QCTO and SETAs collaborate, gathering the right paperwork, and applying before the deadline, you’ll boost your chances of landing a role that pays you while you learn.
Take the next step, find a program that fits your interest, and begin building a professional path that could keep you earning a stipend and open doors to permanent employment by the end of 2025.