Fully Funded Trade Apprenticeships 2026 - 50 Artisan Posts at Letaba TVET College
South Africa’s housing and infrastructure backlog has created a growing shortage of qualified artisans across the construction sector. Bricklayers and carpenters are now among the most in-demand trades, with skilled workers needed for housing projects, schools, clinics, factories, and commercial developments across the country.
In response to this demand, Letaba TVET College has opened applications for its 2026 CETA-funded Apprenticeship Programme, offering 50 fully funded apprenticeship opportunities in Carpentry and Bricklaying for unemployed South Africans in Limpopo.
Unlike short skills courses, this programme runs over three years and leads to a recognised trade qualification, making it one of the strongest artisan entry routes currently available.
A Rare Fully Funded Artisan Pathway
The Letaba TVET College apprenticeship intake is delivered in partnership with the Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA), which funds the full cost of training and workplace exposure.
Successful applicants will receive:
- Structured apprenticeship training
- Placement at approved workplaces across Limpopo
- Formal technical instruction
- Practical on-the-job experience
- Access to a nationally recognised trade qualification
This combination allows young people to earn a qualification that directly links to employment, self-employment, and long-term income generation.
Trades Available in the 2026 Intake
A total of 50 apprenticeship posts are available across two construction trades.
Carpentry Apprenticeship – 20 Posts
Carpenters play a critical role in housing construction, commercial buildings, furniture manufacturing, and renovation projects.
Apprentices will develop skills in:
- Roof construction
- Door and window installation
- Formwork and structural framing
- Finishing and measurements
- Health and safety compliance
Bricklaying Apprenticeship – 30 Posts
Bricklayers are essential to every construction project, from RDP housing to shopping centres and factories.
Apprentices will develop skills in:
- Brick and block laying
- Plastering
- Reading and interpreting building plans
- Setting out foundations
- Construction site safety
Who This Apprenticeship Is Designed For
This programme is aimed at unemployed South Africans who want a serious, long-term career in the construction sector.
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
- Be unemployed
- Hold an NQF Level 4 or NCV Level 4 qualification
- Have passed all subjects
- Hold a qualification in Carpentry or Bricklaying
- Never have participated in an apprenticeship, learnership, or skills programme
Preference will be given to students who studied at Letaba TVET College.
This intake is highly competitive due to the limited number of funded posts.
Why Construction Trades Matter in 2026
Artisan careers are among the most resilient professions in South Africa.
Qualified bricklayers and carpenters are consistently needed for:
- Housing development
- Infrastructure projects
- Commercial construction
- Government-funded builds
- Private renovations
- Self-employment contracting work
Completing a formal apprenticeship places candidates on a recognised career path that is far less vulnerable to automation and outsourcing.
What Happens After You Qualify
Graduates of CETA-funded apprenticeships can pursue long-term careers as:
- Qualified artisans (after trade testing)
- Construction site supervisors
- Foremen
- Self-employed contractors
- Small construction business owners
- Construction management students
Many artisans later register with the CIDB, bid for government tenders, and build sustainable income streams.
How to Apply
Applications are not submitted online or by email.
This is a manual, hand-delivered application process.
Applicants must:
- Prepare a detailed Curriculum Vitae
- Gather copies of qualifications
- Complete a Z83 application form
- Attach a copy of their South African ID
- Include the reference number: LTC 50/01/2026
Do not submit certified copies at this stage.
Only shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide certified documents.
Where to Submit Your Application
Letaba TVET College – Central Office
1 Claude Wheatley Street
Tzaneen
0850
Only applications delivered to this address will be considered.
Closing Date
Applications close on 23 January 2026.
Late applications will not be considered.
