If you want to start a career in South Africa’s growing agriculture sector right now, the Peritum Agri Institute learnerships give you a chance to earn a recognised qualification while working on a farm.
What the opportunity is
Peritum Agri Institute offers five learnership pathways in agriculture. The programmes cover Mixed Farming, Animal Production and Plant Production and are rated from NQF Level 2 to Level 4. Each pathway combines classroom learning with on‑the‑job experience, so you can earn a certificate and gain real‑world skills at the same time.
Who can apply (requirements/eligibility)
Eligibility depends on the specific qualification you choose. There is no single age limit, no universal stipend amount and no single closing date for all five programmes. You need to match your existing education to the entry level of the learnership.
- Mixed Farming – NQF Level 2: open to learners who want a broad introduction to both crops and livestock. No Matric is required, but you must have at least Grade 10 or equivalent.
- Animal Production – NQF Level 3: need a qualification that gives you some basic knowledge of agriculture (e.g., Grade 12, a Certificate III in Agriculture, or a relevant learnership).
- Plant Production – NQF Level 3: similar entry requirements to Animal Production, but focused on crop knowledge.
- Animal Production – NQF Level 4: you must already hold a Level 3 certificate or an equivalent qualification.
- Plant Production – NQF Level 4: you must have completed a Level 3 Plant Production certificate or a comparable learning outcome.
Many applicants struggle with assuming that a Matric certificate is mandatory for every pathway. Check the exact entry requirement for the qualification you want.
What you gain (benefits/skills)
Each learnership gives you:
- Nationally recognised NQF certification (Level 2, 3 or 4).
- Practical experience on a farm or agricultural business.
- Skills in crop production, livestock management, farm operations, and modern farming technologies.
- Improved employability – you’ll have a CV boost, references and hands‑on knowledge.
- Potential stipend – the amount, if any, depends on the specific intake, the funding source and the host employer.
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Decide which agricultural field matches your interest – Mixed Farming, Animal Production or Plant Production.
- Choose the NQF level that aligns with your current education.
- Visit the official learnership page: Peritum Agri Institute learnerships.
- Read the intake details and note any closing dates that apply to your chosen programme.
- Prepare the required documents (see the list below).
- Send an enquiry email or fill in the online form, clearly stating the exact qualification you are applying for, e.g., “National Certificate in Plant Production NQF Level 3”.
- When you receive an intake‑specific application form, complete it accurately and attach the requested documents.
- Confirm the stipend amount and payment conditions if the intake is funded before you commit to transport or accommodation.
Documents you should have ready
- South African identity document (ID).
- Updated curriculum vitae (CV).
- Proof of your highest qualification (Matric certificate, Certificate III, etc.).
- Academic results or transcripts.
- Agricultural certificates or training records, if you have them.
- Any other documents the specific intake asks for.
Only submit the files that the programme requests. Make sure all scans are clear and legible.
Tips to improve your chances
- Match the field first, then the level. Select Mixed Farming, Animal Production or Plant Production before looking at NQF levels.
- Read the entry requirements carefully. Applying for a Level 4 programme without the required prior learning will lead to rejection.
- Use the exact qualification name in all communications – it shows you understand the process.
- If a stipend is offered, ask for a written confirmation of the amount and payment schedule.
- Prepare a concise CV that highlights any farming or related experience, even if it is informal.
- Follow up politely after submitting your enquiry to show interest.
Encouraging conclusion and next steps
The Peritum Agri Learnerships for 2026 provide five clear routes into agriculture, from entry‑level (NQF 2) to advanced (NQF 4). Choose the pathway that fits your current education and career interest, check that an intake is open, gather the required documents and submit a focused application.
Take the first step today. Visit the official site, decide on Mixed Farming, Animal Production or Plant Production, and start building the skills that South Africa’s farms need.