Early Childhood Development (ECD) is the foundation of education and child growth in South Africa. Northlink College, funded by the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), is offering an exciting 18-month ECD Learnership Programme designed to equip aspiring educators with the skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to shape the next generation. This opportunity provides both academic learning and workplace-based training, making it ideal for those passionate about contributing to the development of young children.
About the Programme
The 18-month learnership focuses on developing highly skilled ECD practitioners who can effectively work in Early Childhood Centres and Primary Schools. Learners will engage in structured learning while gaining practical workplace experience at registered institutions. This dual approach ensures that upon completion, participants are prepared to excel in the education sector and meet the standards set by the Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDP SETA).
The programme is not only designed to enhance professional competence but also to create employment opportunities within the growing education sector. Successful participants will graduate with accredited qualifications that improve their employability and open doors for career advancement.
Qualifications Offered
The Northlink College ECD Learnership offers two key qualification pathways depending on the learner’s entry level:
- Higher Certificate: ECD Level 5
- Requirement: Competent NQF Level 4, FETC: ECD Certificate (SAQA ID 58761).
- This option is suited for learners who have completed a foundational ECD certificate and wish to advance their knowledge and professional practice at Level 5.
- National Diploma: ECD Level 5
- Requirement: Competent NQF Level 5, ECD Certificate (SAQA ID 64649).
- This option provides a more advanced qualification for learners who already hold a Level 5 certificate and want to deepen their expertise in managing and facilitating early learning programmes.
Entry Requirements and Documents Needed
Applicants must ensure they meet the academic and institutional criteria 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 registered ECD Centre or Primary School.
- Proof of registration of the ECD Centre or School (NPO certificates will not be accepted).
These requirements ensure that learners are placed in legitimate and registered learning environments, creating a credible training pathway.
How to Apply
Applications for the ECD learnership should be hand delivered at the Northlink College, Goodwood Campus. First Come, First Served.
Choose the Northlink ECD Learnership
- Fully Funded by WCED – making education accessible to more aspiring educators.
- Practical Training – learners gain hands-on experience in real ECD settings.
- Career Advancement – graduates improve employability in schools, ECD centres, and related fields.
- Accredited Qualification – nationally recognized by SAQA and ETDP SETA.
Duration and Commitment
The learnership runs for 18 months and requires full commitment to both theoretical learning and workplace experience. Participants must balance classroom training with practical exposure, ensuring they leave the programme ready to step into rewarding careers in the education sector.
