Top SETA-Accredited Security Learnerships to Apply for in 2026 (Youth Guide)

Are you interested in building a career in the security industry while gaining a nationally recognised qualification? SETA-accredited security learnerships offer one of the most practical routes into protection services, loss control, and community safety roles in South Africa.

These programmes combine structured classroom learning with real workplace experience, helping unemployed youth become job-ready in a growing industry.

What Is a SETA Security Learnership?

A SETA learnership is a formal training programme registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). In the security sector, many programmes are funded and quality-assured by the Services SETA (Services Sector Education & Training Authority).

Benefits of Security Learnerships:

✔ Nationally recognised qualification
✔ Practical workplace experience
✔ Monthly stipend (in most cases)
✔ Improved employability in public and private sectors

Top Security Learnership Programmes for 2026

1️⃣ Security Services Learnership (NQF Level 2 – 4)

Qualification: Security Practices (Level 2, 3, or 4)

Focus Areas:

Basic guarding duties
Access control procedures
Incident reporting
Loss prevention principles
Customer service in security environments

Minimum Requirements:

Matric / Grade 12
Clear criminal record
Physically fit

Career Outcomes:

Registered Security Officer (after PSIRA registration)
Site guard
Control room assistant

2️⃣ Security Officer Learnership (Services SETA Pathway)

This programme prepares learners to work in malls, schools, hospitals, corporate offices, and community spaces.

Core Skills:

Patrol and guarding techniques
Emergency response basics
Risk awareness
Legal and ethical conduct

Requirements:

Grade 12 preferred
Good communication skills
Clear background check

Possible Career Paths:

Security Officer
Armed Response Operator (with additional certification)
Facility Protection Officer

3️⃣ Loss Control & Risk Management Learnership (NQF Level 4)

Designed for those interested in retail and corporate risk management.

Learning Areas:

Risk identification and reporting
Loss prevention strategies
Safety procedures
Security documentation

Who Should Apply:

Matric holders
Detail-oriented individuals
Candidates interested in corporate security

Career Opportunities:

Loss Control Officer
Risk Assistant
Security Supervisor (with experience)

4️⃣ Community Safety & Protection Learnership

This programme combines security fundamentals with community engagement.

Training Includes:

Public safety awareness
Conflict management
Crisis response basics
Community support practices
Basic first aid (where included)

Ideal For:

Youth passionate about public service
Individuals interested in community safety roles

General Entry Requirements

Although requirements may vary by provider, most programmes require:

✔ South African citizenship
✔ Matric (Grade 12)
✔ Clear criminal record
✔ Good communication skills
✔ Physical fitness and reliability

For advanced learnerships, related experience or additional subjects may be advantageous.

How to Apply for 2026 Security Learnerships

Security learnerships are typically offered through:

🔹 TVET Colleges
🔹 Accredited learnership providers
🔹 Employer-funded programmes
🔹 The Services SETA website

Search learnership listings via TVET college portals or Services SETA website

Application Checklist:

Certified copy of South African ID
Certified copy of Matric certificate
Updated CV
Proof of residence

Submit applications before the closing date and attend interviews or assessment days if shortlisted.

Career Growth After Completion

Completing a security learnership can open doors to:

PSIRA-registered Security Officer
Loss Control Specialist
Site Protection Officer
Security Risk Assistant
Community Safety Assistant

With experience and additional certifications, you can advance into supervisory or corporate security management roles.

Final Advice for 2026 Applicants

✨ Apply early — intake spaces fill quickly.
✨ Keep certified documents updated.
✨ Prepare a professional CV highlighting discipline, reliability, and teamwork.
✨ Always verify that the provider is accredited before applying.

Security learnerships provide a strong foundation for long-term employment in South Africa’s growing protection services sector. If you are motivated and ready to build a stable career, 2026 could be your year to start.