Apprenticeships Closing by 20 November 2026: Apply Now

South African youth looking to become qualified artisans have until 20 November 2026 to apply for several apprenticeship opportunities. These programmes offer valuable technical training and workplace experience across various provinces. If you are unemployed and seeking to build a career as a skilled tradesperson, explore these options.

Application Closing Date: 15-20 November 2026
Location: Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State and North West
Programme Duration: 3 to 4 years
Stipend: Monthly stipend provided (for SAFCOL)
Minimum Qualification: N2, N3, NCV Level 4, or Grade 12 (depending on the specific opportunity)
Opportunity Type: Apprenticeship

About Apprenticeships in South Africa

Apprenticeships are structured training programmes designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to become qualified artisans. These programmes typically combine theoretical learning at an educational institution with practical, on-the-job training at a company. They are a crucial pathway for young South Africans to enter skilled trades and secure stable employment.

The apprenticeships closing in November 2026 are offered by well-known organisations like Eskom, RCL Foods Sugar, FLSmidth, LH Marthinusen, and SAFCOL. These opportunities cater to various technical fields, offering a chance to gain recognised qualifications and valuable work experience.

Available Apprenticeship Opportunities

Several organisations are offering apprenticeships with closing dates in November 2026. These include opportunities in electrical trades, fitting, boilermaking, and diesel mechanics.

• LH Marthinusen Apprenticeships 2027: Focusing on technical training and workplace exposure.
• Eskom Electrical Apprenticeships 2026: Opportunities in Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga.
• RCL Foods Sugar Electrical Apprenticeships 2026: Based in Malelane, Mpumalanga.
• FLSmidth Apprenticeships 2026: Offering practical technical and artisan-related training in Gauteng.
• Eskom Electrical Apprenticeships 2026: Opportunities available in the North West.
• SAFCOL Artisan Development Apprenticeships 2027: Including trades like Fitter and Turner, Millwright, Electrical, Diesel Mechanic, and Boilermaking in Limpopo.

What These Apprenticeships Offer

Successful candidates in these apprenticeship programmes can expect a range of benefits designed to foster their development as skilled artisans. These programmes are structured to provide a solid foundation for a successful career.

• Workplace Experience: Gain practical, hands-on experience in a real work environment.
• Structured Training: Receive formal training aligned with industry standards and merSETA requirements.
• Trade Test Preparation: Work towards completing a recognised Trade Test, leading to artisan qualification.
• Monthly Stipend: Some programmes, like SAFCOL’s, offer a monthly stipend to support apprentices during their training.
• Industry Exposure: Learn from experienced professionals and understand the operations within your chosen industry.
• Career Development: Build a foundation for long-term career growth as a qualified artisan.

Programme Duration and Location

The duration for most of these apprenticeships is typically three years, with LH Marthinusen and SAFCOL offering a four-year programme. The opportunities are spread across several provinces in South Africa.

• LH Marthinusen: Johannesburg and relevant Eskom Power Stations, South Africa.
• Eskom: Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and North West, South Africa.
• RCL Foods Sugar: Malelane, Mpumalanga, South Africa.
• FLSmidth: Kempton Park, Gauteng, South Africa.
• SAFCOL: Timbadola Sawmill near Louis Trichardt, Limpopo, South Africa.

Minimum Requirements

Each apprenticeship has specific entry requirements, but common qualifications include N2, N3, or NCV Level 4 certificates in relevant engineering fields. Some may also accept Grade 12 (Matric) with specific subject passes.

• LH Marthinusen: Not specified, but typically requires relevant technical qualifications.
• Eskom: Technical Matric, N3, or NCV Level 4 in Electrical Engineering with specific subject requirements.
• RCL Foods Sugar: Grade 12, at least N3 or NCV Level 4, with Mathematics, Engineering Science, Industrial Electronics, and Electrical Technology. An N4 or higher is advantageous.
• FLSmidth: Not specified, but candidates should be interested in technical and artisan-related training.
• SAFCOL: At least N2 or TVET Level 3 with relevant trade theory. Grade 12 is recommended but not compulsory. Must be unemployed and between 18 and 35 years old.

Competencies Required

Beyond formal qualifications, employers look for candidates with specific skills and personal attributes that will help them succeed in the demanding environment of an apprenticeship.

• Willingness to Learn: A strong desire to acquire new skills and knowledge.
• Technical Aptitude: An understanding of and interest in mechanical or electrical concepts.
• Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to identify and resolve technical issues.
• Teamwork: Capability to work effectively with colleagues.
• Safety Awareness: A commitment to following safety protocols.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust to different tasks and work environments.
• Communication Skills: Ability to clearly convey information.

Who Should Apply?

These apprenticeships are ideal for unemployed South African youth who are passionate about technical trades and aspire to become qualified artisans. If you have completed Grade 12 or have N2/N3/NCV Level 4 qualifications in relevant fields and are eager to gain practical experience, these programmes are a great starting point.

The opportunities are particularly suited for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, are detail-oriented, and are committed to developing a long-term career in fields like electrical engineering, fitting, or mechanics.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents before applying. Ensure all copies are certified and clear.

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Certified copy of South African ID document.
• Certified copy of Matric certificate or equivalent.
• Certified copies of N2, N3, NCV Level 4, or other relevant qualification certificates.
• Academic record or statement of results.
• Proof of residence, if requested.
• Driver’s licence, if required by the specific advert.

How to Apply

Application methods vary by organisation. For Eskom, RCL Foods Sugar, FLSmidth, and SAFCOL, applicants are generally directed to their respective career portals or specific application links provided in the original adverts.

For example, to apply for the Eskom Electrical Apprenticeships, you would typically follow the link provided in the advert. For SAFCOL, applications are usually submitted via email or their online portal.

Applicants should carefully read the requirements on each advert, prepare all necessary documents, and submit their applications before the closing date. Ensure all personal details and uploaded documents are accurate.

Important Notes

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment or interviews. Late applications will not be considered. It is essential that applicants meet all the minimum requirements specified for each apprenticeship. Incomplete applications may be disqualified. Always ensure your documents are certified as required.

Closing Date

The closing dates for these apprenticeships are staggered throughout November 2026.

• LH Marthinusen: 15 November 2026
• Eskom (Eastern Cape, KZN, Free State): 16 November 2026
• RCL Foods Sugar, Eskom (Limpopo, Mpumalanga): 17 November 2026
• FLSmidth: 18 November 2026
• Eskom (North West), SAFCOL: 20 November 2026

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing these deadlines.

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