Hospitality and Cookery learnerships combine structured classroom learning with real-world experience in professional kitchens, hotels, and restaurants. In South Africa, these 12-to-24-month workplace programmes are accredited by CATHSSETA (Culture, Art, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport SETA) and pay a monthly learner stipend.
Popular Learnership Streams & Qualifications
| Stream | NQF Level | Focus Areas | Potential Roles |
| Professional Cookery | Level 4 | Food prep, knife skills, food safety, plating, sauce/pastry basics | Commis Chef, Assistant Cook, Kitchen Assistant |
| Hospitality Reception & Services | Level 2–4 | Front desk, reservations, guest services, house operations | Hotel Receptionist, Guest Relations Agent |
| Food & Beverage Services | Level 3–4 | Table service, bar operations, wine/beverage service, event catering | Waiter/Waitress, Food & Beverage Attendant, Event Assistant |
| Accommodation Services | Level 2–3 | Housekeeping management, laundry, guest room standards | Housekeeping Supervisor, Floor Attendant |
General Eligibility Requirements
While individual recruitment drives set specific criteria, standard minimum requirements include:
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Age: 18 to 35 years old (some youth programs specify 18–27).
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Education: Grade 10, Grade 11, or Grade 12 (Matric) depending on the NQF level.
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Employment Status: Must be currently unemployed South African citizens.
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Attitude: Strong communication, willingness to work flexible shift hours (weekends, holidays, nights).
Key Documents to Keep Ready:
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Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
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Certified copy of SA ID (not older than 3 months)
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Certified copy of Matric certificate or latest school report
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Proof of residential address
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SARS Income Tax confirmation letter
Stipends and Program Benefits
What to expect: Most entry-level hospitality learnerships pay a monthly allowance ranging between R3,000 and R4,600 to help cover transportation and basic living costs during your training year.
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Workplace Exposure: Gain direct experience in hotel kitchens, lodge dining rooms, or catering companies.
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Recognized Qualification: Graduate with a CATHSSETA-accredited NQF certificate.
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Job Pathways: High-performing learners are often offered permanent placement or junior chef contracts upon completion.
Where to Look for Open Positions
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Department of Tourism: Frequently rolls out nationwide Professional Cookery and Food Safety learnership initiatives.
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TVET Colleges: Institutions like Mopani TVET, Vhembe TVET, and False Bay TVET run accredited intake cycles throughout the year.
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Private Culinary Academies & Hotel Chains: Establishments like African Global Skills Academy, Sun International, Tsogo Sun, and Marriott regularly recruit trainee cohorts.
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CATHSSETA Portal: Monitor the official CATHSSETA website and partner training provider listings.
Email: jobapplications5@joburgtheatre.com
Reference Number: REF. NO. JCT/2026/07
Be sure to include the reference number in your application.
Enquiries
Contact Person: Nkosana Mathebula
