ECD Learnership Programme for 2026. Early Childhood Development (ECD) serves as the basis for schooling and child growth. Northlink College, financed by the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), is offering an exciting 18-month ECD Learnership Programme to provide prospective educators with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience required to influence the future generation. This programme offers both academic study and workplace training, making it suitable for people interested in contributing to the development of young children.

About the Programme

The 18-month learnership aims to produce highly competent ECD practitioners who can operate effectively in Early Childhood Centres and Primary Schools. Students will participate in organized study while receiving practical workplace experience at recognized institutions. This dual approach assures that, following completion, participants are ready to flourish in the education sector and fulfill the Education, Training, and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority’s (ETDP SETA) criteria.

The programme is intended not only to improve professional competence, but also to provide job prospects in the rising education sector. Successful participants will graduate with certified qualifications that will enhance their employability and provide opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications Offered

The Northlink College ECD Learnership programme provides two primary certification tracks based on the learner’s initial level:

• Higher Certificate: ECD Level 5
• Requirement: Competent NQF Level 4 with FETC: ECD Certificate (SAQA ID 58761).
• This option is ideal for learners who have achieved a fundamental ECD certificate and want to expand their knowledge and professional practice to Level 5.
• National Diploma: ECD Level 5
• Requirement: Competent NQF Level 5 ECD Certificate (SAQA ID 64649).
• This option offers a more advanced qualification for learners who currently have a Level 5 certificate and wish to expand their knowledge of managing and guiding early learning activities.

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Entry Requirements and Documents Needed

Applicants must confirm that they fulfill the academic and institutional requirements before applying. The following certified documents are required:

• Copy of South African ID.
• Proof of residential address.
• Academic results: ETDP SETA Statement of Results and Certificate.
• Employment letter from a recognized ECD center or primary school.

Proof of registration with the ECD Centre or School (NPO certificates will not be accepted).

These standards guarantee that learners are put in genuine and registered learning settings, therefore establishing a valid training pathway.

How to Apply

Applications for the ECD learnership programme should be handed to the Northlink College, Goodwood Campus. First Come, First Served.

ECD LEARNERSHIP PROGRAMME ADVERTISEMENT HERE

Why Choose the Northlink ECD Learnership?

• Fully Funded by WCED: Making education more accessible to future educators.
• Practical Training: Students acquire firsthand experience in real-world ECD situations.
• Career Advancement: Graduates boost their employability in schools, ECD centers, and other sectors.
• Accredited Qualification: nationally recognized by SAQA and ETDP SETA.

Duration and Commitment

The learnership lasts 18 months and demands a complete commitment to both theoretical learning and industry experience. Participants must strike a balance between classroom instruction and hands-on experience to ensure that they graduate prepared to pursue satisfying careers in teaching.