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Woolworths Learnership 2026: Your Gateway to a Retail Career
Woolworths Learnership, one of South Africa’s favourite retail brands, offers a fantastic opportunity for young people through its YES Learnership Programme. The Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative helps address youth unemployment by providing unemployed youth with hands-on work experience in real jobs. In 2026, Woolworths is opening positions in stores nationwide, offering participants a paid 12-month placement to build skills and confidence.
This learnership is more than just a job — it’s a stepping stone to a brighter future. Participants work in Woolworths stores, gaining experience in customer service, stock management, sales techniques, and teamwork. Many who complete the programme successfully secure permanent roles in retail, thanks to the practical experience and training they gain.
What Is the Woolworths YES Learnership?
The YES programme is a national effort supported by businesses, government, and organisations to create jobs for young South Africans. Woolworths partners with YES to place learners in its stores and, at times, in head office roles. The 12-month contract includes:
- Paid work — You earn a monthly stipend.
- On-the-job training — Learn retail skills directly in a store environment.
- Personal development — Build confidence, communication, and work readiness.
- Qualification — Many YES placements lead to accredited certificates or further opportunities.
It’s designed for entry-level participants, so no prior experience is needed. The focus is on giving youth their first taste of the working world in a supportive, professional setting. This experience will expose them to the world of corporate life and spark the desire to build a career.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Woolworths YES Learnership 2026, you must meet these basic requirements:
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Be aged between 18 and 29 years old.
- Be currently unemployed.
- Have a Matric certificate (Grade 12) or equivalent.
- Live near a Woolworths store (placements are store-based).
The programme prioritises young people with no prior work experience or limited experience, making it ideal for school leavers or those looking to start their careers. It aims to enable young South Africans without employment to gain skills and secure employment opportunities.
How to Apply
Applying is straightforward and free. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Register on SAYouth.mobi — The official platform for YES opportunities. It’s zero-rated, so you can access it even without data. Go to sayouth.mobi and create a profile.
- Complete your profile — Fill in your details, including education, location, and availability.
- Search for opportunities — Look for Woolworths or retail placements under YES programmes.
- Apply when openings appear — Applications for 2026 intakes typically open in late 2025 or early 2026. Check the site regularly or follow Woolworths careers updates.
You can also visit the Woolworths careers website at careers.woolworths.co.za for any related youth opportunities, though YES placements are mainly handled through SAYouth. Tip: Prepare a simple CV and motivation letter early. Highlight your enthusiasm for retail and customer service, even if you have no experience.
Benefits of Joining
Participating in the Woolworths YES Learnership offers real advantages:
- Earn while you learn — Get paid a stipend to cover basic costs.
- Gain valuable skills — Master retail basics like customer interaction, merchandising, and teamwork.
- Build your CV — Add professional experience that stands out to future employers.
- Possible permanent employment — Top performers often get offered full-time roles at Woolworths.
- Personal growth — Many participants report increased confidence and a clearer career direction.
Woolworths is known for its supportive culture, so you’ll work in a positive environment with good training.
Why Choose Woolworths Learnership?
Woolworths Learnership stands out for its commitment to quality, ethics, and employee development. As a leading retailer with stores nationwide, it offers a stable platform for growth. Joining the YES programme here means learning from industry leaders and being part of a brand that values diversity and transformation.
If you’re ready to take your first step into the world of work, the Woolworths YES Learnership 2026 could be the perfect start. Don’t wait — register on SAYouth.mobi today and keep an eye out for openings. This could be the opportunity that launches your career!
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