Hospitality Learnerships South Africa’s tourism and hospitality sector is one of the fastest-growing industries, creating thousands of jobs each year. For many young people and unemployed citizens, entering this exciting field can be a challenge without the right qualifications or experience. That’s where CATHSSETA Learnerships come in.
The Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA) is the official SETA responsible for skills development in hospitality and tourism. Every year, CATHSSETA partners with hotels, restaurants, tourism agencies, and training institutions to offer fully funded hospitality learnerships. These programmes provide learners with both theoretical knowledge and practical workplace training, equipping them with skills that are highly demanded in South Africa’s vibrant hospitality industry.
In this article, we’ll explore the hospitality learnerships offered by CATHSSETA, their benefits, who can apply, and step-by-step instructions on how to secure your spot in 2025.
What Are CATHSSETA Hospitality Learnerships?
Learnerships are structured training programmes registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). They combine:
- Classroom learning (theory-based modules)
- Practical workplace training at hotels, lodges, restaurants, or event companies
Upon completion, learners receive a nationally recognized qualification (NQF Level 2–5), making them job-ready for the hospitality sector.
Unlike traditional studies, these learnerships are fully funded, and learners receive a monthly stipend to assist with transport and food costs during the programme.
Benefits of a Hospitality Learnership
Choosing a CATHSSETA hospitality learnership can be a life-changing decision. Here’s why:
✅ Earn while you learn – Receive a stipend between R2,500 – R4,000 per month.
✅ Accredited qualification – Gain a nationally recognized certificate.
✅ Practical experience – Work at leading hotels, restaurants, and tourism companies.
✅ Employment opportunities – High chances of finding a job after completion.
✅ Pathway to entrepreneurship – Learn the skills to start your own hospitality business.
Hospitality Learnerships Offered by CATHSSETA
CATHSSETA offers several hospitality-related learnerships, each focusing on different areas of the industry. Here are some of the most popular programmes available:
1. Professional Cookery Learnership (NQF Level 4)
- Focus: Food preparation, kitchen safety, menu planning, and culinary skills.
- Ideal for: Aspiring chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff.
- Duration: 12 months.
2. Hospitality Operations Learnership (NQF Level 2–4)
- Focus: Front-of-house service, housekeeping, food and beverage service, and guest relations.
- Ideal for: Learners interested in hotel or restaurant operations.
- Duration: 12 months.
3. Event Management Learnership
- Focus: Planning, organizing, and managing events such as weddings, conferences, and festivals.
- Ideal for: Learners who are creative, organized, and enjoy working in dynamic environments.
- Duration: 12–18 months.
4. Tour Guiding Learnership (NQF Level 2–4)
- Focus: Guiding tourists, local tourism knowledge, safety, and communication skills.
- Ideal for: Learners passionate about travel and tourism.
- Duration: 12 months.
5. Food and Beverage Services Learnership
- Focus: Bar operations, table service, customer care, and food safety.
- Ideal for: Learners aiming to work in restaurants, bars, or cafes.
- Duration: 12 months.
Who Can Apply for CATHSSETA Learnerships?
To qualify for a hospitality learnership through CATHSSETA, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Have a minimum of Grade 10–12 (Matric preferred for higher-level programmes).
- Be unemployed at the time of application.
- Be willing to commit to 12–18 months of training.
- Persons living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to Apply for CATHSSETA Hospitality Learnerships in 2025
Applying for these learnerships requires preparation and attention to detail. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Before applying, ensure you have the following ready:
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate or latest school results.
- Updated CV (Curriculum Vitae).
- Proof of residential address.
- Motivational letter explaining why you want to join the learnership.
Step 2: Check for Opportunities
CATHSSETA does not always post opportunities directly. Instead, they partner with:
- Hotels and lodges
- Restaurants and catering companies
- Tourism and events agencies
- Accredited training providers
👉 Visit the official website: www.cathsseta.org.za OR OUR HOME and check the “Opportunities” or “Learnerships” page.
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Download or request the CATHSSETA Learnership Application Form from their website or training providers. Fill it out carefully, making sure all information is correct.
Step 4: Submit Your Application Hospitality Learnerships
Applications may be submitted through:
- Email (as indicated in the advert)
- Hand delivery to CATHSSETA offices or partner training centres
- Post, depending on instructions
Step 5: Attend Assessments and Interviews Hospitality Learnerships
If shortlisted, you will be invited for: Hospitality Learnerships
- Interviews
- Skills assessments
- Possibly medical fitness checks
Tips for a Successful Application
💡 Apply early – these programmes are very competitive.
💡 Submit certified documents – uncertified copies will lead to disqualification.
💡 Write a strong motivational letter – explain your passion for hospitality.
💡 Keep checking the CATHSSETA website and social media for updates.
💡 Be professional – treat the application like a job interview. Hospitality Learnerships
Final Thoughts ABOUT Hospitality Learnerships
A hospitality learnership with CATHSSETA is more than just training — it’s a gateway to a thriving career in one of South Africa’s most exciting industries. Whether you dream of becoming a chef, hotel manager, tour guide, or event planner, these programmes give you the skills, experience, and confidence to succeed.
If you are unemployed, eager to learn, and passionate about hospitality, now is the time to act. 2025 applications are opening soon, so prepare your documents and apply as early as possible.
👉 For the latest updates and application details, visit www.cathsseta.org.za.