Today’s labour market needs practical skills, and CATHSSETA learnership programmes for 2026 are opening fast, giving you a chance to earn a recognised qualification while getting real work experience.
What the learnerships involve
CATHSSETA (Culture, Art, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority) offers learnerships in six sub‑sectors: arts, culture and heritage; tourism and travel services; hospitality; sport, recreation and fitness; conservation; and gaming and lotteries. Each learnership mixes classroom or online study with on‑the‑job training under an employer’s supervision.
Typical activities include:
- Formal classes or e‑learning modules
- Practical tasks at the workplace
- Assessments and moderated learning
- Mentoring and progress monitoring
- A nationally recognised qualification on successful completion
Durations vary – some run for 12 months, others follow a different schedule – so always check the advertised start and end dates.
Who can apply
Eligibility depends on the specific programme, but common requirements are:
- Meeting the education level stated in the advert (often Grade 12, but some accept lower qualifications or specific certificates)
- Fulfilling any age or employment‑status criteria (unemployed youth, current employees, recent school leavers, etc.)
- Having South African identity documents
- Being able to commit to both the theoretical and workplace components for the full period
- Providing honest CVs and supporting certificates when asked
Both employed and unemployed learners can qualify, but each advert will state the target learner category clearly.
What you gain
A CATHSSETA learnership gives you:
- A nationally recognised qualification
- Paid or stipend‑supported workplace experience
- Hands‑on skills in customer service, operations, safety, and industry‑specific tasks
- Mentorship from experienced staff
- Professional contacts and a stronger CV
- Transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, time management and problem‑solving
Stipends vary by employer and funding agreement; some programmes pay a monthly allowance, while others may offer transport, meals or accommodation support. Always read the advert for the exact amount.
How to apply – step by step
- Visit the official CATHSSETA learning programmes page and note the sectors that interest you.
- Create or log in to your profile on the official CATHSSETA Learner Portal. Keep your personal details, education history and contact information up to date.
- Search for 2026 intakes posted by employers or accredited training providers. Pay attention to entry requirements, duration, stipend, and closing date.
- Gather the required documents (see list below) and have them saved as clear PDF files.
- Submit your application through the employer’s or provider’s advertised portal, email, or online form before the deadline.
- If shortlisted, attend any interview or assessment that is requested.
- Accept the learnership agreement if you are offered a place, and prepare for the start date.
Documents you should have ready
- South African ID (front and back)
- Updated CV
- Latest school results or Grade 12 certificate (or other required qualification)
- Full academic transcript (if applicable)
- Proof of residence
- Proof of unemployment (when asked)
- Bank‑account confirmation letter (if required after selection)
- Relevant certificates or licences (e.g., driver’s licence, first‑aid)
Name each file clearly, for example Thabo-Mokoena-Grade12.pdf.
Tips to improve your chances
- Read every advert carefully – do not assume one learnership is the same as another.
- Tailor your CV to the sector you are applying for; highlight any related volunteering or part‑time work.
- Keep your portfolio of documents organized and accessible before you start applying.
- Respond quickly to advertised deadlines; many intakes close within a few weeks.
- Beware of scams – only apply through official employer or training‑provider channels, and never pay money to secure a place.
- Prepare for interviews by researching the employer’s business and the specific qualification.
Next steps
Register on the Learner Portal today, collect your documents, and start checking verified adverts from hotels, travel agencies, museums, conservation bodies, sports clubs, casinos and other CATHSSETA‑aligned employers. Each opportunity is a doorway to a qualified career in tourism, hospitality, arts, culture, conservation, gaming or sport.
Take action now – the 2026 learnership windows are open, but they will close quickly. With the right preparation, you can turn a learnership into a solid foundation for future employment.