In 2026, South African youth and aspiring artisans have a rare opportunity to secure structured, industry-aligned training through a Limited Contract of Service (COS) Apprenticeship Programme offered by Gert Sibande TVET College, with financial support from AgriSETA. Limited COS Apprenticeships 2026
The programme targets high-demand artisan trades and provides learners with hands-on workplace training, formal technical instruction, and a pathway toward a nationally recognised trade qualification.
With unemployment among young people remaining a national challenge, COS apprenticeships continue to play a vital role in bridging the gap between education and real employment. This opportunity is particularly important for candidates seeking practical careers in construction and infrastructure development.
Applications are strictly limited, highly competitive, and must be submitted in person before the closing date.
Programme Overview: COS Apprenticeship 2026
The Limited COS Apprenticeship Programme is designed to develop competent artisans who can meet industry standards and contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s skills economy.
Key Programme Details
- Programme Name: Limited Contract of Service (COS) Apprenticeship
- Training Institution: Gert Sibande TVET College
- Funding Partner: AgriSETA
- Available Trades:
- Bricklayer
- Carpenter
- Plumber
- Application Closing Date: 30 January 2026
- Submission Method: Physical submission only
- Submission Location:
Skills Academy & Artisan Development Centre, Standerton
No emailed, faxed, or late applications will be accepted.
Why COS Apprenticeships Matter in 2026
COS apprenticeships differ from short courses or informal training. They combine structured theory, practical workplace exposure, and trade testing preparation, ensuring that learners graduate with skills that are recognised across the country.
For many young people, artisan training offers:
- Faster entry into the labour market
- Practical, income-generating skills
- Opportunities for self-employment
- Long-term career growth in scarce-skills trades
Construction and infrastructure development remain key drivers of employment in South Africa, making artisan qualifications more relevant than ever.
Trades Offered Under the COS Apprenticeship Programme
Bricklayer Apprenticeship
Bricklayers are fundamental to housing, commercial construction, and public infrastructure projects. This trade remains in steady demand across both urban and rural areas.
Training focus includes:
- Laying bricks, blocks, and construction materials
- Reading and interpreting building plans
- Applying safety and quality control standards
- Preparing for formal trade testing
Career opportunities:
Qualified bricklayers can find employment with construction firms, municipalities, contractors, or establish their own building businesses.
Carpenter Apprenticeship
Carpentry is a versatile trade covering structural, finishing, and furniture-related work. Skilled carpenters are needed in construction, renovations, and manufacturing.
Training typically covers:
- Structural and finishing carpentry
- Use of hand and power tools
- Measuring, cutting, and installation techniques
- Workplace compliance and safety regulations
Career opportunities:
Graduates may work in construction companies, furniture manufacturing, renovations, or operate independently as self-employed artisans.
Plumber Apprenticeship
Plumbing remains one of South Africa’s most in-demand artisan trades due to ongoing infrastructure maintenance and housing development.
The programme includes training in:
- Water supply and distribution systems
- Sanitation and drainage
- Installation and maintenance of plumbing systems
- Compliance with national building regulations
Career opportunities:
Qualified plumbers can work in construction, maintenance, municipal services, or run registered plumbing businesses.
Minimum Educational Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following educational criteria:
- Technical Grade 11 with relevant subjects
- N2 Certificate with relevant subjects
- NCV Level 4, including all relevant subjects
These requirements ensure that learners possess the foundational technical knowledge required to succeed in an apprenticeship environment.
Required Application Documents
All applicants must submit a complete application package. Missing documents may result in immediate disqualification.
Documents Required
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Uncertified copy of South African ID
- Uncertified copies of all relevant qualifications
- For applicants under 18:
- Uncertified copy of a parent or guardian’s ID
Applicants are strongly advised to clearly indicate one trade only (Bricklayer, Carpenter, or Plumber) on their CV.
Application Submission Instructions
Submission Location
Skills Academy & Artisan Development Centre
Standerton
Important Guidelines
- Applications must be submitted physically
- No email or fax submissions will be accepted
- Clearly state the trade applied for on your CV
- Late applications will not be considered
Closing Date
30 January 2026
If no response is received within 60 days after the closing date, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful.
Selection Process and What Happens Next
After the application period closes:
- All submissions are screened for compliance and eligibility
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews or assessments
- Final selection depends on:
- Meeting entry requirements
- Performance during assessments
- Availability of limited spaces
Successful applicants will enter a structured COS apprenticeship programme combining institutional training and workplace exposure.
Due to the limited number of placements, early and accurate submission significantly improves selection chances.
Career Pathways After Completing the Apprenticeship
Completing a COS apprenticeship is not the end of the journey—it is the beginning of a professional artisan career.
Graduates may:
- Sit for and pass formal trade tests
- Register as qualified artisans
- Gain employment in construction companies or municipalities
- Start small businesses and become self-employed
- Progress into supervisory or foreman roles
- Pursue further occupational or technical qualifications
Many experienced artisans later become trainers, assessors, or employers themselves, contributing back to the skills ecosystem.
Guidance for Applicants from Edupstairs
At Edupstairs, we strongly encourage young people to consider artisan and occupational pathways alongside academic routes. South Africa urgently needs skilled tradespeople who can build, repair, and maintain critical infrastructure.
Before submitting your application:
- Ensure your CV is clear, accurate, and up to date
- List correct subjects and grades
- Clearly state your chosen trade
- Make copies of all documents
- Submit early to avoid last-minute complications
Artisan careers require discipline, patience, and commitment, but they offer long-term employability and independence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this an apprenticeship or a learnership?
This is a COS apprenticeship, focused on hands-on training and preparation for formal trade testing.
Is there a minimum age requirement?
The advertisement does not specify a minimum age. Applicants under 18 must submit a parent or guardian’s ID copy.
Can I apply for more than one trade?
Applicants should indicate one trade only. Applying for multiple trades may reduce clarity and affect selection.
Are stipends guaranteed?
Stipend details are not specified in the advertisement. Terms are usually clarified once candidates are accepted.
Can applications be submitted by email or fax?
No. Only physical, in-person submissions are accepted.
What is the closing date?
The application deadline is 30 January 2026.
Final Reminder
The Limited COS Apprenticeships for 2026 at Gert Sibande TVET College, supported by AgriSETA, offer a valuable opportunity for young South Africans to gain real skills that lead to sustainable careers. With limited spaces available, eligible candidates are encouraged to prepare and submit their applications as early as possible.
This programme represents a practical step toward employment, entrepreneurship, and long-term economic participation in South Africa’s growing artisan sector.
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.
