Discover CATHSSETA funded learnerships supported by Bconsult in South Africa. Get free accredited training, monthly stipends, work experience and nationally recognised qualifications. Learn how to apply today.
CATHSSETA Funded Learnerships Offered by Bconsult: Complete 2026 Guide for South African Youth
Introduction
If you are looking for a practical, affordable, and reliable way to gain skills and secure employment in South Africa, CATHSSETA funded Learnerships are one of the best opportunities available today.
These learnerships provide free accredited training, workplace experience, and a monthly stipend, helping thousands of young people build careers in hospitality, tourism, arts, culture, events, and sports industries.
Training providers like Bconsult play an important role in connecting learners with funded opportunities, offering guidance, programme administration, and workplace placements that make the process easier and more successful.
In this detailed guide, you will learn:
✔ What CATHSSETA funded learnerships are
✔ How Bconsult supports learners
✔ Full list of common learnership programmes
✔ Entry requirements
✔ Benefits
✔ Step-by-step application process
✔ Frequently asked questions
This article is written to give you clear, trustworthy, and practical information so you can confidently apply.
What Are CATHSSETA Funded Learnerships?
CATHSSETA stands for the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority.
It is a government body responsible for:
- Funding skills development
- Supporting training providers
- Creating job opportunities
- Improving employability for young South Africans
A learnership combines:
1. Classroom learning (theory)
You study job-related knowledge and complete assessments.
2. Workplace training (practical)
You gain real work experience at a host employer.
At the end of the programme, learners receive a nationally recognised qualification registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
This means employers across South Africa recognise your certificate.
Who Is Bconsult?
Bconsult is a South African skills development and training provider that partners with SETAs, employers, and learners to deliver structured training programmes.
They assist with:
- Learnership coordination
- Learner registration
- Employer partnerships
- Workplace placements
- Compliance and reporting
- Learner support throughout the programme
This support system is extremely valuable, especially for first-time applicants who may not understand the SETA or learnership process.
By working with a provider like Bconsult, learners get professional guidance and better access to opportunities.
List of Common CATHSSETA Funded Learnerships
Below are popular CATHSSETA funded Learnerships typically offered through accredited training partners like Bconsult.
1. Professional Cookery Learnership (NQF Level 2–4)
Teaches food preparation, kitchen safety, menu planning and cooking techniques.
Career paths:
- Chef
- Kitchen assistant
- Catering staff
- Restaurant cook
2. Hospitality Services Learnership (NQF Level 2–4)
Covers hotel operations, customer service, housekeeping and front desk duties.
Career paths:
- Receptionist
- Housekeeping staff
- Hotel assistant
- Guest services officer
3. Food and Beverage Services Learnership
Focuses on restaurant and café service, bar operations and customer care.
Career paths:
- Waiter/waitress
- Barista
- Bartender
- Restaurant supervisor
4. Travel and Tourism Learnership
Provides knowledge of tourism operations, travel bookings, guiding and customer communication.
Career paths:
- Tour guide
- Travel consultant
- Tourism assistant
- Reservations agent
5. Event Management Learnership
Teaches event planning, logistics, budgeting and coordination.
Career paths:
- Event coordinator
- Conference assistant
- Venue administrator
- Wedding planner assistant
6. Sport Administration Learnership
Develops skills in sports programme coordination and facility management.
Career paths:
- Sports administrator
- Club coordinator
- Recreation assistant
7. Arts, Culture and Heritage Programmes
Supports creative industries and cultural management.
Career paths:
- Museum assistant
- Cultural project assistant
- Arts administrator
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Minimum Requirements to Apply
Although each programme may differ slightly, most CATHSSETA funded Learnerships require:
✔ South African citizen
✔ Age between 18 – 35 (youth priority)
✔ Unemployed at the time of application
✔ Grade 10, 11 or 12 (Matric preferred)
✔ Valid South African ID
✔ Willing to commit full-time for 12 months
✔ Good communication skills
✔ Passion for hospitality, tourism or service industries
People living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Benefits of CATHSSETA Funded Learnerships
Free Training
No course fees. The programme is fully funded.
Monthly Stipend
Learners receive a monthly allowance to help with transport and daily expenses.
Work Experience
You gain real workplace exposure, not just theory.
National Qualification
You earn an NQF-accredited certificate recognised nationwide.
Better Job Opportunities
Employers prefer candidates with experience and formal training.
Career Growth
Many learners are permanently employed by host companies after completion.
Confidence and Professional Skills
You learn teamwork, communication, and workplace discipline.
How Bconsult Helps Learners Succeed
Applying for learnerships can feel confusing, especially if you don’t know where to start. Bconsult simplifies the process by:
- Explaining available programmes
- Checking eligibility
- Assisting with documentation
- Preparing learners for interviews
- Placing learners with host employers
- Monitoring progress
- Providing ongoing support
This guidance increases your chances of completing the programme successfully.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Prepare Documents
Have these ready:
- Certified copy of ID
- CV
- Matric or latest school results
- Proof of address
- Bank details (if required)
Step 2: Monitor Opportunities
Check Bconsult announcements and learnership openings regularly.
Step 3: Submit Application
Apply with complete and correct information.
Step 4: Screening or Interview
Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed or tested.
Step 5: Sign Learnership Agreement
If selected, you sign a contract and begin training.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
✔ Apply early
✔ Submit clear documents
✔ Create a professional CV
✔ Show enthusiasm for the industry
✔ Be punctual for interviews
✔ Keep checking for new intakes
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I pay for the learnership?
No. CATHSSETA funded learnerships are fully sponsored.
How long do learnerships last?
Usually 12 months, sometimes up to 18 months.
Do I get paid?
Yes, most programmes provide a monthly stipend.
Will I get a job afterwards?
Many learners are hired, but employment is not guaranteed. However, your chances improve greatly.
Can I apply without Matric?
Some programmes accept Grade 10 or 11, depending on the qualification.
Final Thoughts
If you are serious about building a career in hospitality, tourism, arts, events or sports, CATHSSETA funded Learnerships supported by Bconsult offer one of the smartest ways to start.
You gain:
✔ Free education
✔ Practical experience
✔ Monthly income
✔ Recognised qualification
✔ Real employment opportunities
Instead of waiting for opportunities, take action today.
Prepare your documents, apply early, and begin your journey toward a skilled and successful future.
Mukhwthwa Maumela is passionate about empowering South Africans with reliable, verified, and easily accessible information about careers and education. Through https://www.carseta.co.za/ , Mukhethwa’s mission is to support students, job seekers, and young professionals by providing accurate guidance on learnerships, internships, bursaries, scholarships, and educational resources. you can get in contact with Mukhethwa throuth our email inquire@carseta.co.za
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