UCL Engineering Apprenticeships 2026: 3-Year Artisan Training Programme(Closing 27 February 2026)
UCL Company (Pty) Ltd is inviting South African unemployed youth to apply for its Technical Apprenticeship Programme 2026. This three-year apprenticeship offers structured artisan training combining practical workplace exposure and institutional learning.
If you are passionate about engineering and technical trades, and reside within approximately 50km of Pietermaritzburg in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, this opportunity provides a pathway toward a nationally recognised trade qualification.
Applications close on 27 February 2026.
About UCL
UCL Company (Pty) Ltd is a medium-sized company operating in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands within a diverse agricultural and industrial environment.
The company is focused on developing young, dynamic, and self-motivated individuals who are capable of working independently and committing to long-term technical training.
About the Apprenticeship Programme
The UCL Engineering Apprenticeship is a structured three-year programme designed to develop qualified artisans through practical and institutional training.
Programme Overview
- Programme Type: Technical Apprenticeship
- Duration: 3 Years
- Location: KwaZulu-Natal Midlands (±50km from Pietermaritzburg)
- Training Institution: Shukela Training Centre (STC), Mount Edgecombe
- Closing Date: 27 February 2026
Contracts are fixed-term and subject to renewal based on performance and satisfactory progress throughout the programme.
Available Apprenticeship Fields
Applicants must clearly state the trade they are applying for in the email subject line. The available trades include:
- Boilermaker
- Electrical
- Instrument Mechanical
- Mechanical Fitter
- Millwright
- Fitter and Turner
These trades offer structured development within industrial and agricultural operations.
Apprenticeship Structure
The programme includes:
- Workplace-based practical training
- Approximately 20 weeks of institutional training at Shukela Training Centre over three years
- Exposure across various factory sections during operational periods
- Experience during annual maintenance shut periods
- Mini Trade Tests (Phase Tests) at the end of each training year
- A Final Trade Test leading to a nationally recognised qualification
This combination ensures apprentices gain both theoretical knowledge and practical industrial competence.
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Who Should Apply
This apprenticeship is ideal for candidates who:
- Are unemployed
- Are passionate about engineering and technical trades
- Are motivated and self-driven
- Can work independently
- Are committed to completing the full three-year programme
Applicants must reside within the specified geographic area.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following academic criteria:
- Grade 12 with N2 certificate
- Matric with technical subjects
- NCV Level 4
Candidates should demonstrate readiness for technical training and industrial work environments.
Training and Exposure
During the apprenticeship, participants will gain:
- Experience in sugar and extract factory operations
- Exposure to industrial maintenance and production systems
- Practical hands-on technical skills
- Preparation for a nationally recognised artisan qualification
The structured exposure supports long-term career growth within engineering trades.
How to Apply
Suitably qualified applicants must submit the following documents:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copies of academic records
Applications must be sent to:
Human Resources Department
For attention: HR Department
Email: trainingc@ucl.co.za
Important: Clearly state the trade you are applying for in the email subject line.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 27 February 2026.
Late applications may not be considered.
Conclusion
The UCL Engineering Apprenticeships 2026 offer a structured three-year pathway into recognised artisan trades within an industrial and agricultural environment.
With workplace exposure, institutional training at Shukela Training Centre, and a final trade test leading to a nationally recognised qualification, this apprenticeship provides a solid foundation for a long-term engineering career.
If you meet the requirements and are ready to commit to technical training, submit your application before the closing date.
