Applying for the Cleaning Learnership 2026 (R4000 Stipend)

Applying for the Cleaning Learnership 2026 (R4000 Stipend)

Securing a learnership is a powerful step toward a formal, professional career, especially in the growing hygiene and cleaning sector. The Cleaning Learnership, often accredited by the Services SETA, offers a unique opportunity to gain a National Qualification Framework (NQF) accredited qualification while earning a monthly stipend (typically around R4,000 for government/SETA-funded programs, though the exact amount can vary by employer and NQF level).

1. Understanding the Cleaning Learnership

A learnership is a structured, work-based learning programme that combines theoretical training with practical experience in a workplace.

What the Program Entails

• Dual Learning: It is split between classroom-based theoretical training (provided by an accredited training provider or college) and practical workplace experience (provided by an employer, often a contract cleaning company or a large corporate with in-house cleaning services).

• Qualification: Upon successful completion (usually 12 months), the learner is awarded a National Certificate in Hygiene and Cleaning (common levels include NQF Level 1, 2, or 3).

• Stipend: Learners receive a monthly allowance, or stipend, which is not a salary but financial support for transport, food, and other costs. The R4,000 figure is a common benchmark for SETA-funded learnerships for unemployed youth.

• Contract: You will sign two legal agreements: a Learnership Agreement (signed by the learner, employer, and training provider) and a Short-Term Employment Contract (signed by the learner and the employer, as unemployed learners are technically employed for the duration).

Why Choose a Cleaning Learnership?

• Formal Certification: Transforms cleaning from an informal job into a professional, certified skill.

• Immediate Employability: The program provides essential workplace experience that employers actively seek.

• Career Pathway: Establishes a foundation for career growth into roles like Cleaning Supervisor, Team Leader, or even starting your own cleaning business.

• Financial Support: The monthly stipend helps sustain you financially while you acquire an accredited qualification.

2. Essential Eligibility Requirements for 2026

While specific requirements can differ between employers (e.g., eThekwini Municipality may require Matric/Grade 12, while a private company may accept Grade 10), the general criteria for the Services SETA-aligned Cleaning Learnership are:

3. The 5-Step Application Strategy

The application process is a systematic campaign. You cannot wait for opportunities to appear; you must actively search and prepare.

Step 1: Document Preparation and Certification

Before any advert is even published, you must have all your documents ready. Applications often close quickly, and a delay due to uncertified copies can cost you the opportunity.

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV): Keep it simple, clear, and professional—no more than two pages. Focus on your schooling, any previous work/volunteer experience, and mention your genuine interest in hygiene and cleaning.

• Certified ID Document: Get a copy of your South African ID book or card certified by the South African Police Service (SAPS) or a Commissioner of Oaths. Certification must be no older than three to six months.

• Certified Educational Certificate: The highest qualification you possess (e.g., Grade 10 report, Matric certificate). Get this certified as well.

• Proof of Residence (Optional but Recommended): A recent utility bill or an affidavit from your landlord/local Councillor may be required, especially for learnerships offered by a municipality (like eThekwini).

• SARS Tax Reference Number Letter: You will need this for the stipend payment, as the employer will need to register you for tax purposes.

• Bank Confirmation Letter/Statement: For stipend payment purposes.

Step 2: Proactive Search for Open Opportunities

The 2026 learnerships will primarily be advertised between October 2025 and January 2026. Your search must be wide-ranging.

• Services SETA Channels:

  • Learner Portal: Register on the Services SETA Learner Portal. This allows employers and training providers to find your profile when they are looking for candidates.

  • SETA-Accredited Providers: Identify training providers accredited by Services SETA that offer cleaning learnerships (e.g., Training Force, Edge Training). Follow their social media pages and check their websites for 2026 intake announcements.

• Employer Job Portals:

  • Contract Cleaning Companies: Large companies like Tsebo, Bidvest Facilities Management, Supercare, or other national contract cleaning firms are the biggest recruiters. Check the careers pages on their official websites.

  • Large Corporates/Retailers: Companies like Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Eskom, Transnet, or major banks often have their own learnership programmes for in-house services.

• Government/Municipal Channels:

  • Municipalities: Check the official career portals of your local municipality (e.g., eThekwini, City of Johannesburg, City of Cape Town). Many municipalities run Hygiene and Cleaning learnerships.

  • Government Departments: Departments of Public Works and Infrastructure, Health, or provincial governments may also offer related programmes.

• Online Job Portals: Regularly check popular South African job search websites and learnership-specific platforms. Use keywords like “Cleaning Learnership 2026,” “Hygiene NQF Level 2 Learnership,” or “Services SETA Learnership.”

• Department of Labour (ESSP): Register on the Employment Services of South Africa (ESSA) database. Employers sometimes recruit directly from this national database.

Step 3: Submitting a High-Quality Application ✉️

Once you find a suitable advert, follow the submission instructions exactly.

• Follow Instructions Meticulously: If the advert says “submit via email,” do not submit physically. If it says “physical submission at the office,” do not email. Compliance is the first screening test.

• Use the Correct Subject Line (Email): If applying via email, use the subject line specified in the advert (e.g., “Application: Cleaning Learnership 2026 – [Your Name]”).

• The Application Letter/Email Body: Write a brief, polite, and formal letter.

  • State the learnership you are applying for.

  • Mention your compliance with the minimum requirements (age, education).

  • Express your enthusiasm and commitment to complete both the theoretical and practical components.

• Attach Documents Clearly: Ensure all your documents are clearly named (e.g., “ID – Certified Copy – [Your Name].pdf,” “CV – [Your Name].pdf”) and attached to the application.

• Apply Early: Learnership intakes are often conducted on a rolling basis. Applying early increases your chances of being shortlisted before all interview slots are filled.

Step 4: The Selection Process (Assessment and Interview) ️

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for assessment and an interview.

The Assessment

You may be required to complete:

• Basic Literacy and Numeracy Test: To ensure you can handle the NQF-level theoretical work.

• Basic Cleaning Knowledge Test: Simple questions about safety or hygiene.

• Physical or Aptitude Test: To assess your ability to perform physical tasks related to cleaning work.

The Interview

Interviews focus on your attitude, commitment, and understanding of the role. Prepare for questions such as:

• “Why are you interested in a career in cleaning and hygiene?”

• “What do you understand a learnership to be?”

• “How do you handle repetitive tasks?”

• “Where do you see yourself in five years after completing this qualification?”

• Tip: Emphasise your professionalism, dedication, reliability, and understanding of workplace safety and hygiene.

Step 5: Signing the Agreement and Induction ✅

If you are successful, you will move to the final stage.

• Sign the Legal Documents: Carefully read and sign the Learnership Agreement and the Short-Term Employment Contract. These documents formalise your employment and training for the 12-month period.

• Induction: You will attend an induction session, which will cover the rules, company policies, safety protocols, stipend payment dates, and the training schedule. This is where you will get the final confirmation of your R4,000 stipend (or the confirmed amount).

4. Focus: The Cleaning Qualification and Modules

The learnership is built around an accredited qualification. The most common is the National Certificate: Hygiene and Cleaning Services.

Key Learning Areas (NQF Level 1/2)

The training is comprehensive, covering far more than just “how to clean.” It professionalises the skill.

• Basic Cleaning Skills: Techniques for general and deep cleaning of various surfaces (floors, windows, walls, etc.).

• Use of Chemicals: Proper storage, handling, and application of different chemicals (detergents, disinfectants, acids) to ensure effectiveness and safety.

• Cleaning Equipment: Safe and correct operation and maintenance of cleaning machinery (e.g., polishers, wet/dry vacuums).

• Health and Safety: Strict adherence to Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations, including handling biological waste and using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

• Communication and Customer Service: Professional conduct, basic communication, and how to interact effectively with clients and team members.

• Environmental Awareness: Understanding and applying environmentally friendly cleaning practices and waste management.

• Ablution Cleaning: Specialised techniques for cleaning and sanitising restrooms and wet areas to the highest hygiene standards.

5. Maximising Your Learnership Success

Getting the learnership is only the beginning; succeeding in it is what guarantees future opportunities.

• Attendance and Commitment: Attend every training session and practical shift. Unauthorised absence is a serious breach of the agreement and can lead to termination.

• Professionalism: Be punctual, dress neatly (in the provided uniform), and maintain a positive, dedicated attitude.

• Portfolio of Evidence (PoE): The PoE is your qualification file. Keep it organised, up-to-date, and complete all assessments and tasks diligently. This is mandatory for receiving your final certificate.

• Networking: Build professional relationships with your line manager, colleagues, and the training facilitators. These contacts can be invaluable for finding permanent employment after the program.

• Financial Literacy: Use the R4,000 stipend wisely. Budgeting for transport and other needs is critical, as this stipend is designed to be your sole income for the year.

Conclusion: Securing Your Future in Hygiene

The Cleaning Learnership 2026 is an excellent opportunity to gain a recognised national qualification and a year of invaluable work experience, supported by a R4,000 monthly stipend. Success hinges on thorough preparation, proactive searching on multiple platforms (SETA, municipal, and private company portals), and meticulous adherence to application instructions. By positioning yourself as a professional, dedicated, and safety-conscious candidate, you can turn this learnership into the first step of a long and successful career in the professional hygiene and services sector.

Would you like me to look up the official contact details for the Services SETA to help you start your registration on their Learner Portal?