Introduction: Your Journey Begins With One Document
In a country where many young people are looking for opportunities to work, learn, and grow, learnerships in South Africa have become a vital gateway. Whether you’re fresh out of school, unemployed, or looking to upskill, learnerships offer real-world experience, training, and a monthly stipend — all while working towards an accredited qualification.
But here’s a question that often leaves people unsure: Do you need a CV to apply for a learnership?
The short and essential answer is: Yes, you absolutely do.
Your Curriculum Vitae (CV), along with a motivational letter, is often the first thing recruiters ask for when you apply for a learnership — especially at the beginning stage.
This guide explains why your CV matters, how to create one even if you have limited work experience, and how to present yourself effectively for learnership opportunities in 2025 and beyond.
Why a CV Is Essential When Applying for a Learnership
A CV is your personal marketing tool. It tells the employer who you are, what you’ve studied, what you’re passionate about, and how they can contact you.
Learnership providers — whether they’re SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities), government departments, or private companies — use your CV to match you with available programmes. Even if you’re applying for an entry-level position with no prior experience, your CV can demonstrate your potential, attitude, and goals.
In fact, many adverts say clearly:
“Please send only your up-to-date CV and a motivational letter at this point. You will be contacted once we have matched you with a possible learnership.”
So, yes — a CV is a must, and if you don’t have one yet, now is the time to create it.
Real-Life Story: Khanyi’s First CV Opened Doors
Let’s meet Khanyi, a 20-year-old from Daveyton. After passing Grade 11, she was unable to complete matric but still dreamed of working in administration. One day, she came across a Services SETA learnership on Facebook that only required a CV and motivational letter.
“I didn’t know what a CV was. I had never worked before,” Khanyi shares. With help from her cousin, she put together a simple one-page document outlining her education, computer skills, and passion for learning.
Three weeks later, she got a call from a logistics company and was invited to an interview. Today, Khanyi is working full-time after completing her learnership.
Her story proves: a CV can be your ticket to a better future — even without work experience.
What Should Be in a CV for a Learnership?
If you’ve never worked before, don’t panic. A strong CV doesn’t mean having a long list of jobs — it means presenting yourself clearly, professionally, and honestly. Here’s what your CV should include:
1. Personal Information
Make it easy for recruiters to contact you:
- Full name
- ID number
- Phone number
- Email address
- Physical address
Tip: Use a professional email address (e.g., yourname@gmail.com) and make sure your voicemail is active.
2. Career Objective or Profile Summary
This is a short paragraph (2–3 lines) about who you are and what you’re looking for.
Example:
“A motivated and enthusiastic young individual seeking a learnership opportunity in the retail sector. Eager to learn, grow, and contribute positively to a professional work environment.”
3. Educational Background
List your most recent educational achievements:
- School name
- Grade completed
- Years attended
Example:
Diepsloot Secondary School
Grade 11 Completed — 2022
Extra courses: Microsoft Word and Excel (Community Centre, 2023)
4. Skills and Abilities
Even without job experience, you have skills. Think about school projects, volunteering, or things you’re good at:
- Good communication
- Basic computer literacy
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork
- Customer service (e.g., helping at a family business)
5. Languages
List the languages you speak, especially if you’re applying for retail or call centre work.
6. References
If you’ve worked informally (e.g., helped in a local shop or tutored kids), you can use those contacts as references. Otherwise, use a teacher, coach, or community leader.
Example:
Mr. Ndlovu — Life Orientation Teacher
071 234 5678
How to Write a Motivational Letter for a Learnership
Along with your CV, most learnership applications ask for a motivational letter — a short explanation of why you’re applying and why you should be considered.
Here’s a basic structure you can follow:
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[Date]
To Whom It May Concern,
Subject: Application for Learnership Opportunity
I am writing to express my interest in any available learnership opportunities at your organisation. I am a determined young person with a strong desire to learn, grow, and make a positive contribution to your team.
Although I do not have prior work experience, I am reliable, eager to develop new skills, and passionate about building a career. I recently completed Grade 11 and have basic computer knowledge, good communication skills, and a willingness to take on any challenge.
I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to be considered for a learnership in your organisation. I am available for interviews and can start immediately if required.
Thank you for considering my application.
Kind regards,
[Your Full Name]
Cell: 08X XXX XXXX
Email: yourname@gmail.com
Tip: Keep it short, clear, and personalised. Don’t copy-paste motivational letters — tailor them to the opportunity.
Where to Send Your CV for Learnerships
Now that you have a CV and motivational letter ready, where do you apply?
✅ Online Job Portals
Use keywords like:
- “Learnerships 2025 no experience”
- “Retail learnerships open for application”
- “Admin learnerships 2025”
✅ Company Websites
Many large companies have careers pages where you can apply directly:
- Pick n Pay – careers.pnp.co.za
- Transnet – transnet.net
- Eskom – eskom.co.za/careers
- Sasol – sasol.com/careers
- Clover – clover.co.za/careers
✅ SETAs and Training Providers
Visit websites like:
They often publish active learnership opportunities, especially those open to youth without matric.
Tips to Make Your CV Stand Out
- Keep it clean and readable. Use simple fonts and a layout with headings.
- Be honest. Never include qualifications or experience you don’t have.
- Highlight soft skills. Employers value attitude, discipline, and willingness to learn.
- Double-check contact info. Your phone number and email must be correct.
- Use PDF format. When emailing your CV, save it as a PDF with a clear name:
YourName_CV.pdf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply without a CV?
It’s rare. Most learnerships require a CV and motivational letter as the first step.
What if I’ve never worked before?
That’s okay. Focus on your school experience, community involvement, and personal strengths.
Do I need a fancy CV?
Not at all. A simple, clear, and honest CV is perfect — no need for graphics or photos.
Is a motivational letter always necessary?
Yes. Even a short one helps show your personality and seriousness.
Final Words: Your CV Is the Key to Your Future
Even if you’ve never had a job, your CV speaks for you. It tells employers that you’re serious about growth, learning, and contributing. And when paired with a strong motivational letter, it becomes a powerful tool to unlock doors to your first opportunity.
So if you’re asking, “Do I need a CV to apply for a learnership?”, the answer is a clear and confident yes. Start building yours today, and take the first step toward the future you deserve.
Remember:
Your future isn’t limited by where you come from — only by what you’re not willing to try. Create that CV. Send that motivational letter. Apply for that learnership. You are capable. You are ready. And your opportunity is out there.
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