SPAR South Africa has officially opened applications for its 2026 Learnership Programmes in Transport Operations and Supply Chain Management, offering unemployed young South Africans a rare and valuable opportunity to enter the logistics and retail supply chain sector through structured, work-based learning. SPAR 2026 Learnership Programmes
Hosted at the SPAR North Rand Distribution Centre, these learnerships are accredited National Certificates at NQF Level 5 and are designed to combine formal theoretical learning with real-world workplace experience inside one of South Africa’s most advanced retail distribution networks.
For young people who have completed Grade 12, are currently unemployed, and are seeking a practical career path with long-term relevance, this opportunity represents a genuine entry point into industries that remain in high demand across the country.
Why the SPAR 2026 Learnership Programmes Matter
South Africa’s logistics, transport, and supply chain sectors form the backbone of the economy. From moving goods across provinces to ensuring supermarket shelves are stocked daily, skilled professionals in these fields are essential and consistently in demand.
SPAR’s learnerships stand out because they:
- Offer nationally recognised qualifications
- Provide paid workplace exposure
- Operate within a real retail distribution environment
- Focus on skills that cannot be automated
- Improve long-term employability across multiple industries
For many professionals currently working in logistics and supply chain management, structured learnerships like these were the starting point of their careers.
Learnership Overview at a Glance
Organisation: SPAR South Africa
Training Site: North Rand Distribution Centre
Programme Duration: 12 months
Intake Year: 2026
Application Status: Open
Available Learnerships
- National Certificate: Transport Operations (NQF Level 5)
- National Certificate: Supply Chain Management (NQF Level 5)
Eligibility Snapshot
- Age: 18 to 34 years
- Education: Grade 12 / Matric completed
- Employment status: Unemployed
- Study status: Not enrolled in another qualification
Learnership 1: National Certificate in Transport Operations (NQF Level 5)
Programme Introduction
The Transport Operations Learnership is ideal for candidates interested in how goods are safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively transported from warehouses to retail stores. This programme focuses on the operational side of logistics, particularly fleet and transport coordination.
It is especially suited to individuals interested in:
- Fleet management
- Route planning
- Transport scheduling
- Compliance and safety in logistics
- Retail distribution systems
Number of learners accepted: 20
What Learners Will Do
Successful candidates will spend 12 months embedded at the SPAR North Rand Distribution Centre, gaining hands-on experience in:
- Transport planning and scheduling
- Monitoring vehicle movements and delivery routes
- Understanding transport legislation and compliance
- Supporting daily transport operations
- Learning how large-scale retail distribution functions
Learners will work closely with experienced transport and logistics professionals, gaining exposure that goes far beyond classroom learning.
Career Outcomes After Transport Operations
Completing this qualification opens pathways into roles such as:
- Transport Controller
- Logistics Coordinator
- Fleet Administrator
- Dispatch Supervisor
- Transport Operations Assistant
These roles are востребованы across retail chains, logistics companies, and distribution firms nationwide.
Learnership 2: National Certificate in Supply Chain Management (NQF Level 5)
Programme Introduction
The Supply Chain Management Learnership focuses on the full journey of products — from suppliers and manufacturers to warehouses and retail shelves. It is designed for candidates who enjoy organisation, planning, systems, and problem-solving in fast-paced environments.
This programme is ideal for individuals interested in:
- Warehouse operations
- Inventory and stock control
- Distribution planning
- Process improvement
- Operational efficiency systems
Number of learners accepted: 50
What Learners Will Do
During the 12-month learnership, participants will be actively involved in SPAR’s supply chain operations, learning how one of South Africa’s largest retailers manages product flow at scale.
Key learning areas include:
- Stock and inventory control
- Warehouse processes and systems
- Supply chain coordination
- Distribution planning
- Improving operational efficiency
Learners gain practical exposure that aligns directly with industry requirements, ensuring skills remain relevant beyond the programme.
Career Outcomes After Supply Chain Management
Graduates may pursue entry-level roles such as:
- Supply Chain Administrator
- Warehouse Supervisor (Junior)
- Logistics Administrator
- Inventory Controller
- Operations Assistant
These roles exist across FMCG companies, retailers, logistics providers, and warehousing firms.
Entry Requirements (Applies to Both Learnerships)
To be considered, applicants must meet all requirements:
- Completed Grade 12 / Matric
- Aged between 18 and 34
- Currently unemployed
- Not enrolled in another qualification
- Available for the full 12-month duration
Important: Applications from candidates who are employed or currently studying will not be considered.
Application Information and Deadlines
Applications for the 2026 intake are officially open.
- Final application deadline: 20 January 2026
- Programme commencement: 2026
- Duration: 12 months
Applicants are advised to apply early, as intake numbers are limited and competition is high.
APPLY FOR THE SPAR NATIONAL CERTIFICATE: TRANSPORT OPERATIONS (NQF LEVEL 5) HERE
APPLY FOR THE SPAR NATIONAL CERTIFICATE: SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT (NQF LEVEL 5) HERE
Why an NQF Level 5 Qualification Is Valuable
An NQF Level 5 qualification sits above entry-level training and provides practical, career-ready skills that employers actively seek.
With this level of qualification, candidates can access:
- Logistics coordination roles
- Transport control positions
- Warehouse supervision pathways
- Supply chain administration jobs
These qualifications are nationally recognised and valued by employers across South Africa’s private sector.
Employability and Long-Term Career Impact
While no learnership can guarantee employment, SPAR learnerships significantly improve employability by offering:
- Recognised credentials
- Verified workplace experience
- Exposure to a major national retailer
- Industry-relevant skills
Many professionals currently working in logistics, transport, and supply chain management began their careers through programmes like these.
How Edupstairs Helps Candidates Prepare
At Edupstairs, the focus is not only on sharing opportunities but on helping candidates successfully compete for them.
Before applying, candidates should ensure:
- Their CV is professional, clear, and up to date
- All supporting documents are valid and certified
- Contact details are correct and accessible
Strong preparation can be the difference between selection and rejection.
Industries That Value These Qualifications
Graduates of SPAR’s learnership programmes are employable across multiple sectors, including:
- Retail and FMCG companies
- Logistics and transport firms
- Warehousing and distribution centres
- Supply chain service providers
These industries remain resilient and continue to grow despite economic uncertainty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a stipend for the SPAR learnerships?
Yes. Learners typically receive a monthly stipend in line with SETA guidelines. The exact amount is determined by SPAR.
Can I apply for both learnerships?
It is recommended to apply for one programme only, based on your career interests. Multiple applications may reduce your chances.
Do I need previous experience?
No. These learnerships are designed for entry-level candidates with no prior work experience.
Is employment guaranteed after completion?
Employment is not guaranteed. However, completing a SPAR learnership significantly improves employability.
Are these qualifications recognised?
Yes. Both programmes are nationally recognised NQF Level 5 qualifications.
Does this ensure employment for life?
No qualification can guarantee lifetime employment, but it greatly strengthens long-term career prospects.
Final Thoughts
SPAR’s 2026 Learnership Programmes in Transport Operations and Supply Chain Management represent a meaningful opportunity for unemployed South African youth seeking practical skills, real workplace exposure, and recognised qualifications.
For those serious about building a sustainable career in logistics, transport, or supply chain management, this programme could be the turning point that opens doors for years to come.
Applications close on 20 January 2026. Early application is strongly advised.
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.
