FutureTech 2025 Learnership & Internship: Is a Criminal Record a Barrier to Your Application?
[Your Company] Invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their Learnership & Internship Vacancies.
The closing date for applications is 30 June 2026.
Can You Still Get a Learnership or Internship If You Have a Criminal Record?
A short answer: Yes – in most cases you can.
The real answer depends on a few things:
- What kind of offence it was
- How long ago it happened
- Whether it has been wiped from the police file
- The job you’re eyeing
This guide will tell you what you can do to boost your chances, what employers think about a record, and how you can use the law to your advantage.
What Does a “Criminal Record” Mean?
A criminal record shows that a court has officially found you guilty of a crime.
Important points:
| Being arrested ≠ being convicted | If you were only stopped by police but not found guilty, it isn’t a record. |
| Pending cases | They’re still waiting for a verdict and don’t count as a record yet. |
| Minor vs. major crimes | Small traffic tickets or low‑level shoplifting are treated very differently from violent or money‑related crimes. |
Many people think any police contact automatically bars them, but that’s not true.
Are Learnerships and Internships Open to People With Criminal Records?
Most programmes are ruled by:
- Labour laws
- Rules set by the sector‑specific training bodies (SETA)
- The hiring company’s own policies
Because of this, each programme needs a look‑in‑case‑by‑case check.
In short:
| Some places are okay with a record | They’ll look at your whole picture. |
| Other roles require a clean background | Especially if the job handles money, children, secrets, or is a security job. |
When a Record Might Hold You Back
A criminal record can be a problem if the job does things like:
- Handle cash or sensitive financial data
- Work with kids, elders, or people who need extra protection
- Access secure sites or confidential documents
- Be part of police, correctional services, or other safety roles
Typical examples:
- Finance or banking learnerships
- Security‑related internships
- Teaching or childcare placements
- Government posts that need a thorough vetting
When a Record Usually Does Not Stop You
Many learnerships and internships don’t ask for a police clearance.
They are common in:
- Manufacturing and factories
- Hospitality, travel, and hotels
- Retail and customer‑service stores
- Call centers
- Warehouses and logistics
- Technical trades like welding, plumbing, or electrical work
- Basic office jobs
SETA programmes focus on building skills, not punishing past mistakes. They often evaluate applicants as a whole picture, not just a police file.
Why Police Clearance Checks Matter
Some programmes ask for:
- A police clearance certificate
- A declaration of past offences
- Permission for a background check
That does not mean you’ll automatically be turned away.
Employers usually look at:
- What type of offence
- How serious it was
- How long ago it happened
- How old you were when it happened
- Evidence that you’ve learned and changed
What Is “Expungement” and Why It Helps
South Africa lets you have some records wiped out if:
- The offence was small or a simple fine
- You were given a non‑criminal penalty, like a community service sentence
- Ten years have passed (five years for specific cases)
- You haven’t broken any laws in that time
When a record is expunged:
- You can say “No” if asked about a record
- The offence will not show up on a police clearance
To get this, you need to go through the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.
Should You Tell Employers About a Criminal Record?
It’s a tough decision, but here’s a simple rule:
- Don’t lie if a form asks you directly.
- Only share what the law forces you to.
- Keep it short and honest.
- Highlight how you’ve grown and taken responsibility.
Most employers value honesty over a perfect past.
How to Strengthen Your Application When You Have a Record
- Apply everywhere – Don’t shut the door before you even try.
- Target job sectors that value skills – Look for places that focus on training.
- Build a strong CV – Show your training, volunteer work, and any short courses.
- Get solid references – A teacher, supervisor, or community leader can help.
- Show your growth – If given a chance, explain what you’ve learned and how you’ve changed.
Common Myths You Should Ignore
| Myth | Truth |
|---|---|
| “I will never be hired again.” | Thousands of people in South Africa finish learnerships every year, even after a conviction. |
| “SETAs will always reject anyone with a record.” | SETAs fund training; employers decide based on how well you fit the role. |
| “I must say everything right away.” | You only disclose what is legally required or what the job asks for. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if my case is still pending?
Yes, but some employers may wait until a final decision is made.
Do all learnerships need a police clearance?
No, most do not.
Will expungement guarantee that I’ll be chosen?
No, it only improves your chances.
Is it illegal to apply with a criminal record?
No, you are free to apply.
If you’re reading this, you’re already thinking about the future. Don’t let a past mistake stop you. Keep applying, keep learning, and keep believing in yourself. Every new job is a chance to show who you truly are.
