Unlock Your Future with the LEARN Warehousing Learnership 2026
South Africa’s youth are navigating one of the toughest job markets in recent history. With unemployment rates for young people under 35 hovering above 30%, the challenge to secure meaningful work is real and urgent. However, the good news is that there are opportunities designed to help young South Africans gain valuable skills, get paid while learning, and open doors to promising careers.LEARN Warehousing Learnership 2026
One such opportunity is the 2026 LEARN Training Academy Warehousing Learnership, a structured, nationally recognised programme offering hands-on training, real workplace experience, and a generous monthly stipend of R5100. This program is ideal for those who want to launch a career in warehousing, logistics, and supply chain management.
Applications for this sought-after learnership close in February 2026, so early preparation and timely application are essential. This guide unpacks everything you need to know to apply and succeed in this programme.
What Is the 2026 LEARN Warehousing Learnership?
The LEARN Training Academy’s 2026 Warehousing Learnership is a government-aligned skills development programme designed to train youth in the warehousing and logistics sector. Unlike unpaid internships or purely academic courses, this learnership combines:
- Practical, hands-on work experience in real warehouse environments
- Structured lessons covering essential logistics topics such as stock management, safety procedures, and warehouse operations
- Formal assessments that lead to a nationally recognised qualification
- A monthly stipend of R5100 to help support learners financially during their training
- A clear route to full-time employment upon successful completion
This programme aims to address the growing need for qualified warehouse and logistics professionals, driven by South Africa’s expanding retail sector and booming e-commerce industry.
Why Choose a Learnership?
Many young people struggle to find jobs because they lack experience. Learnerships offer a unique solution by combining workplace training with formal education. When you join a learnership, you:
- Earn a recognised qualification registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF)
- Gain meaningful, practical work experience that employers trust
- Receive a stipend so you can support yourself while you learn
- Build essential soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and time management
Unlike unpaid internships, learnerships provide structured, paid training that prepares you for a lasting career.
The Growing Importance of Warehousing and Logistics
Warehousing is at the heart of the supply chain, which is vital to South Africa’s economy. Whether it’s stocking shelves at retail outlets, managing the movement of goods from ports to stores, or coordinating deliveries, logistics professionals keep the flow of products running smoothly.
The logistics sector is expanding by approximately 5% annually. This growth is fueled by:
- The rapid rise of online shopping
- Increased cross-border trade within Africa
- Growing demand for fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG)
- Investment in infrastructure and supply chain technologies
As the sector grows, so does the demand for skilled warehousing staff—from entry-level pickers and packers to supervisors and warehouse managers.
What Does the 2026 Learnership Include?
Hands-on Warehouse Experience
Learnership participants work daily in warehouses, learning how to:
- Receive, store, and dispatch goods safely
- Use warehouse equipment such as pallet jacks and scanners
- Conduct inventory cycle counts and stock checks
- Follow health and safety regulations
Structured Lessons and Assessments
In addition to practical work, learners complete lessons on logistics principles, safety protocols, stock handling, and warehouse operations. These are aligned with national standards, ensuring that your qualification is respected by employers across the country.
Monthly Stipend of R5100
Unlike many entry-level programs, this learnership pays learners R5100 per month. This helps cover expenses like transport, food, data, printing, and other costs, allowing you to focus on your training without financial stress.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
To join the 2026 LEARN Warehousing Learnership, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Education: Minimum of Grade 11 completed. Having a Grade 12 (Matric) certificate is an advantage, especially with good marks in Mathematics and English.
- Age: Must be 18 years or older at the start of the learnership.
- Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Soft Skills: Employers value reliability, punctuality, willingness to learn, good communication, and physical fitness for tasks involving movement.
Meeting these criteria ensures you can follow the lessons, work safely, and thrive in a warehouse environment.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying is simple and done fully online. Here’s what you need to do:
- Visit the official application portal: https://learnex.co.za/apply-for-learnership/
- Create a user profile: Enter your personal details and educational background.
- Complete the background questionnaire: This helps assess your suitability for the programme.
- Upload required documents:
- Certified copy of your ID (not older than 3 months)
- Grade 11 or Matric certificate
- Updated CV
- Proof of residence (municipal bill, affidavit, etc.)
- Optional: Letters of recommendation
- Submit your application and wait for a confirmation via email or SMS.
Important Tips:
- Ensure all documents are clear and legible.
- Submit early to avoid last-minute website traffic and technical issues.
- Incomplete applications are often rejected, so double-check before submitting.
What Happens After You Apply?
Once accepted, you will be enrolled in the learnership starting in 2026. Throughout the programme, you will receive on-the-job training combined with formal lessons. At the end, successful learners will:
- Receive an NQF Level 2 or Level 3 Warehousing Qualification (SAQA registered)
- Have valuable workplace experience employers seek
- Be well-prepared for full-time roles in warehousing and logistics
Career Opportunities After the Learnership
This learnership is a strong stepping stone into the logistics industry. Typical career progression includes:
- Picker/Packer
- Stock Controller
- Shift Leader or Team Leader
- Warehouse Supervisor
- Warehouse Manager
With experience, your salary and responsibilities grow. Warehousing is a career path offering stability, growth potential, and the chance to work in diverse industries like retail, manufacturing, and transportation.
Why Apply for the 2026 LEARN Warehousing Learnership?
- Earn while you learn: The R5100 monthly stipend supports your living expenses.
- Gain nationally recognised qualifications: Boost your resume with an accredited certificate.
- Receive practical experience: Employers prefer candidates with on-the-job skills.
- Access career growth: The logistics sector offers many opportunities for advancement.
- Easy application process: Fully online, so you can apply from anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is a learnership, and how is it different from an internship?
A learnership is a government-regulated programme combining formal education with workplace training. Unlike many unpaid internships, learnerships offer a stipend, structured lessons, and a nationally recognised qualification.
2. How much will I earn during the learnership?
You will receive a monthly stipend of R5100, which helps cover your daily expenses while you train.
3. What qualifications will I earn after completing the learnership?
You will earn an NQF Level 2 or 3 Warehousing Qualification, registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
4. Who is eligible to apply for the learnership?
Applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents, at least 18 years old, and have completed Grade 11 or higher. Basic math and English skills improve your chances.
5. What documents do I need to submit?
You need to upload a certified copy of your ID, your Grade 11 or Matric certificate, proof of residence, and an updated CV. Letters of recommendation are optional.
6. When does the application close?
Applications close on 28 February 2026. Applying early is recommended due to high demand.
7. What kind of work will I do during the learnership?
You will be involved in tasks such as receiving and dispatching stock, conducting inventory counts, operating warehouse equipment, and following safety procedures.
8. Can I get a job after completing the learnership?
Yes, most learners find employment in warehousing, logistics, retail, or supply chain companies. Many progress into supervisory and managerial roles with experience.
Final Thoughts: Take the First Step Toward a Rewarding Career in Logistics
The 2026 LEARN Training Academy Warehousing Learnership is a valuable opportunity for South African youth to gain paid, practical training, earn a recognised qualification, and build a career in a growing industry. With a competitive stipend, accessible requirements, and a clear path to employment, it’s a program worth considering if you want to enter the logistics and warehousing sector.
Remember, the deadline is 28 February 2026. Don’t wait until the last minute—start your application today and take a confident step toward your future.
Thato Sabethwa is a passionate education advocate and digital content creator dedicated to helping young South Africans access valuable career and learning opportunities. With a strong belief in the power of skills development, Thato writes informative articles about learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job readiness. Through OnlineLearnership.co.za, Thato aims to guide students and job seekers toward the right opportunities that can shape their future. Her content focuses on practical advice, career tips, and reliable updates to empower readers to make informed decisions about their education and career paths.
