South African ECD Learnership Programme 2026 | Early Childhood Development Training

Kickstart your career in Early Childhood Development (ECD) with a fully accredited, fully funded South African ECD Learnership Programme. This opportunity equips young people with qualifications, practical experience, and workplace exposure — preparing you for a meaningful, future-proof career in early learning.

What Is the South African ECD Learnership Programme?

The ECD Learnership Programme is a structured, government-supported initiative aimed at developing qualified Early Childhood Development practitioners. It combines theory, practical training, and workplace learning, allowing learners to earn a stipend while gaining hands-on experience in preschools, crèches, Grade R classrooms, and community learning centres.

Programmes are typically offered through:

• ETDP SETA (Education, Training and Development Practices SETA)
• Department of Social Development
• Accredited early learning training institutes and NGOs

Official Resources:

• ETDP SETA Learnership Opportunities
• Department of Social Development – ECD Programmes
• SAQA – Learnership Verification

Why Choose an ECD Learnership?

1. Earn a Monthly Stipend
   Most ECD learnerships provide a stipend to assist with travel and living costs. Amounts vary by provider.
2. Obtain a Recognised National Qualification
   • NQF Level 4: Further Education and Training Certificate in ECD
   • NQF Level 5: Higher Certificate or Diploma in ECD
     These qualifications are nationally recognised and open doors to employment in early learning or Grade R support roles.
3. Zero Tuition Fees
   Learnerships are fully funded through SETAs and government initiatives.
4. Real Work Experience
   Learners are placed at preschools, ECD centres, and community programmes to gain hands-on experience.
5. Strong Employment Opportunities
   Graduates can pursue careers such as:
   • ECD Practitioner
   • Assistant Teacher
   • Crèche Educator
   • Grade R Teaching Assistant
   • Early Learning Programme Facilitator
   • Community Child Development Worker

Who Qualifies for the South African ECD Learnership Programme?

Minimum Requirements:

• South African citizen
• Aged 18–35 years
• Grade 12 / Matric (some accept Grade 10 or 11)
• Passion for working with children
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively
• No criminal record involving children

Additional Recommendations:

• Volunteer experience in ECD settings
• Basic computer literacy
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Programme Structure

Most ECD learnerships run for 12 months, though some may last 18–24 months depending on the qualification.

Key Topics Covered:

• Child growth and development
• Early learning and stimulation
• Health, safety, and nutrition
• Inclusive education and special needs
• Classroom management
• Children’s rights and protection
• Learning through play
• Planning and delivering ECD activities

Assessment Types:

• Practical assessments
• Written assignments
• Portfolio of Evidence (PoE)
• Workplace evaluations

How to Apply

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

• Certified ID copy
• Certified Matric certificate / highest grade passed
• Proof of address
• Updated CV
• Motivation letter (recommended)

Step 2: Find Accredited Training Providers

• Verify providers through ETDP SETA or SAQA

Step 3: Submit Your Application

• Online applications, email submissions, or walk-ins are accepted

Step 4: Attend Interviews or Assessments

• May include literacy tests, personality assessments, and interviews with ECD centre managers

Step 5: Wait for Approval and Placement

• Learners receive a contract, training schedule, placement confirmation, and stipend information

Skills You Will Gain

• Early learning facilitation
• Literacy and numeracy development
• Classroom management
• Observation and assessment
• Working with children with diverse needs
• Communication and teamwork
• Curriculum planning
• Child safety and basic first aid

Salary Expectations

• Entry-level: R3 500 – R6 000
• Experienced practitioners: R6 000 – R12 000
• Supervisors / Centre managers: R10 000 – R20 000+
  Salaries vary depending on location, qualification, and institution type.

Why the ECD Sector Is Growing

South Africa is investing heavily in early childhood education due to:

• Government emphasis on ECD
• Increased demand for Grade R and early learning teachers
• Policy shifts towards early education development
• Expansion of community-based ECD centres
• Rising need for trained practitioners

This ensures strong opportunities for qualified learners.

Useful Links for Learners

• ETDP SETA Learnership Portal
• Department of Social Development – ECD
• SAQA Learnership Verification
• SA Youth Portal – Learnerships
• Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator
• Provincial Education Departments (e.g., Gauteng Education)

Tip: Always verify the provider is ETDP SETA-accredited or SAQA-recognised.

Final Thoughts

The South African ECD Learnership Programme is a golden opportunity for young, passionate individuals who want a career in early childhood education. It offers:

• Recognised qualifications
• Real workplace experience
• Monthly stipends
• Strong career pathways
• A meaningful, purpose-driven profession

If you are committed to shaping South Africa’s future through early childhood education, this programme provides the most accessible, fully funded route into the sector.