Here’s your full and updated guide to applying for an Early Childhood Development (ECD) Learnership in South Africa for 2025—a meaningful path into early childhood education that blends accredited learning with real‑world experience:
What Is an ECD Learnership?
An ECD Learnership is a structured training programme (typically 12–18 months) that combines academic instruction with on‑the‑job practice in registered ECD centres. Successful learners earn an NQF‑aligned qualification (often Level 4 or 5) and gain valuable workplace exposure.(sa-seta.co.za, sainfoweb.co.za)
Many SETAs—particularly ETDP SETA, HWSETA, or LEARNSETA—offer these accredited programmes.(Sa-SETA.Com)
Stipends are commonly offered—e.g. around R5,000/month for many programmes.(sa-seta.co.za, Jobcare)
Who Can Apply?
Most programmes follow these basic criteria:(Sa-SETA.Com)
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | South African citizen or permanent resident |
| Age Range | Typically 18–35 (some target up to 29 or 28 years) |
| Education Level | Matric (Grade 12) or NCV/NQF Level 4 (TVET) |
| Employment Status | Unemployed and not enrolled in other study |
| Additional Requirements | Clean criminal record, willingness to sign a Learnership Agreement, basic computer literacy preferable |
Some programmes may accept Grade 11 depending on provider requirements—but Matric is ideal.(Jobcare, reddit.com, unisa.africa, sainfoweb.co.za)
Preference may also be given to those living with disabilities, previously disadvantaged communities, or people with relevant passion/experience.(Sa-SETA.Com, sseta.co.za)
What Will You Learn?
A typical programme includes:
- Child development theory (cognitive, emotional, social growth)
- Curriculum planning and age‑appropriate activities
- Health, nutrition & safety in care settings
- Communication and inclusive education practices
- Practical hours working with children in registered ECD environments(sainfoweb.co.za, sa-seta.co.za, sseta.co.za)
Hands‑on duties include lesson planning, running learning activities, tracking developmental milestones, and ensuring hygiene and child safety.(sainfoweb.co.za, Jobcare)
How to Apply – Step by Step
1. Find an Open Learnership
Look for opportunities through:
- SETAs (e.g. ETDP SETA, LEARNSETA, HWSETA)
- Government departments (DSD or DBE)
- Registered ECD centres or accredited training providers
- TVET colleges and NGOs like SmartStart or Cotlands(Sa-SETA.Com)
Example: ETDP SETA is offering a Western Cape ECD Learnership SAQA 97542 (Level 4), running March 2025–March 2026—limited to unemployed youth in that region.(unisa.africa)
2. Prepare Required Documents
You’ll need:
- Certified copy of your ID or birth certificate (dated within 3 months)
- Matric certificate or NCV/NQF Level 4 qualification (or Grade 11 proof if accepted)
- CV (max 2 pages)
- Proof of residence (recent utility bill)
- Motivation letter expressing your passion and commitment
- Disability affidavit (if applicable)(Sa-SETA.Com, sa-seta.co.za)
3. Complete the Application Form
- Download it from the provider’s site or collect in person.
- Fill it out accurately and honestly.
- Attach all required certified documents.(Sa-SETA.Com)
4. Submit Your Application
You may be asked to apply via:
- Email (e.g. ETDP SETA Western Cape contact: dakalom@etdpseta.org.za)
- Online portals
- In-person at the training provider or ECD centre(unisa.africa, Sa-SETA.Com)
5. After Submission
- Applications are often processed on a first-come, first-served basis—early submission is key.(unisa.africa)
- If shortlisted, expect interviews or literacy/numeracy assessments.
- Successful candidates sign a Learnership Agreement and begin training within the specified timeframe.(Sa-SETA.Com)
When to Apply
- Deadlines vary—many close by March or April 2025.(sseta.co.za, youthspacehub.com)
- Some listings remain “open until filled”, especially those run nationally.(sainfoweb.co.za)
- In Western Cape, the ETDP SETA programme begins March 2025, so apply as early as possible.(unisa.africa)
Benefits of Joining
- Earn a nationally recognized NQF qualification in ECD (Level 4 or 5).
- Receive a monthly stipend (approx. R5,000).
- Gain practical experience in real early childhood settings.
- Potential for employment in preschools, crèches, NGOs, or government programmes.
- Opportunity for further studies, teaching diploma, or ECD entrepreneurship.(sainfoweb.co.za, sa-seta.co.za, sseta.co.za)
Tips for a Strong Application
- Write a sincere motivation letter—show your commitment and why ECD matters to you.
- Highlight any volunteer or community experience with children.
- Apply early and keep proper copies of your documents.
- Monitor emails/phone for response and follow up respectfully if needed.(Sa-SETA.Com, sseta.co.za)
Insights from Learners
“Every Learnership has to be linked to a formal, recognised qualification … you will gain work experience. … Usually companies will want to offer full‑time employment to the best of their Learnership students.”(reddit.com)
This reflects the real benefit: credentials plus experience.
Application Checklist
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Identify applicable SETA or provider | ETDP, LEARNSETA, etc. |
| Verify eligibility (age, Matric, unemployment) | |
| Prepare certified documents (ID, Matric, CV, etc.) | |
| Complete application form and attach documents | |
| Submit before deadline or until filled | |
| Await shortlist confirmation, interview, or assessment | |
| If selected, sign Learnership Agreement and start programme |
What to Do Next?
If you’re ready:
- Tell me your province or preferred SETA (e.g., ETDP SETA Western Cape or national LEARNSETA).
- I can help you locate current applications, the contact person, or exact portal link.
- I can assist with drafting a strong motivation letter tailored to ECD.
The ECD Learnership Programme is a purposeful path to a child-centred career, combining real impact with skills and qualifications. Ready when you are!
