Clicks Youth Employment YES 2026 – NQF Level 2 Gauteng, Deadline 5 Mar
If you’re between 18 and 29, have just finished Matric and are looking for a real job that pays you and gives you a formal qualification, this is the opportunity to watch out for. The SETAs website explains why funded programmes like this can give you a leg up in a competitive job market. The Clicks Group is now accepting applications for its 2026 YES Programme, a fixed‑term contract that delivers hands‑on retail experience, a nationally recognised NQF Level 2 qualification, and a chance to work in Gauteng’s FMCG and health‑beauty sector.
What the Clicks YES Programme Is All About
The programme is more than a temporary retail job. It is a structured learning journey that blends classroom theory with on‑the‑ground practice. After 12 months you earn an NQF Level 2 Checkout Operator occupational qualification and a certificate that you can showcase on your CV.
Programme Details
- Programme name: Clicks Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme 2026
- Listing reference: click_023966
- Location: Gauteng
- Industry: FMCG & Supply Management (Retail)
- Contract type: Fixed‑term contract
- Closing date: 5 March 2026
- Qualification awarded: NQF Level 2 Checkout Operator
- Target group: Unemployed youth (18–29)
- EE position: Yes
Who Can Apply?
The programme is designed specifically for young South Africans who meet these criteria:
- South African citizen
- Age 18‑29 years
- Passed Matric
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Willingness to learn and adapt
- Not currently enrolled in a learnership or skills programme
Many applicants forget this last point—if you’re already on a SETA learnership, you’ll need to wait for a new opportunity.
What You Gain From the Programme
At the end of the 12‑month journey you’ll have:
- Hands‑on experience operating checkout tills, handling cash and electronic payments, and maintaining retail safety standards.
- Classroom knowledge of customer service fundamentals, POS systems, retail compliance, and workplace communication.
- An NQF Level 2 qualification that can open doors to higher‑level retail positions, such as sales assistant, stock controller, store supervisor, or assistant store manager.
- Routes to further study, including NQF Level 3 retail qualifications and wholesale & retail SETA programmes.
The experience also improves your confidence in fast‑paced environments and shows future employers that you can handle responsibility.
How to Apply
- Search for the listing reference click_023966 on the Clicks career portal.
- Update your CV to a clean one‑page format.
- Attach a certified copy of your Matric certificate.
- Submit your application before 5 March 2026.
Applications are received online only, so use the official portal to avoid scams. Legitimate programmes never charge a fee.
Apply for the Clicks Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme 2026 here
Tips to Boost Your Chances
- Write a one‑page CV that highlights teamwork – whether from school projects, volunteering or sports.
- Showcase your communication skills: include examples where you helped resolve a conflict or led a small group.
- Practice common customer‑service interview questions – you’ll likely be asked about handling difficult customers.
- If you’re shortlisted, dress neatly, arrive early, and demonstrate eagerness to learn and reliability.
From experience, many applicants fail because they overlook the “unemployed” requirement or submit a CV that reads like a résumé instead of a story of what you bring to the table.
What Happens After the Programme?
Completion does not guarantee permanent employment with Clicks, but the skills and qualification will strengthen your CV. You can move into roles such as:
- Checkout Operator or Sales Assistant
- Merchandising Assistant, Stock Controller, Store Supervisor, or Assistant Store Manager
- Warehouse Assistant, Distribution Clerk, Inventory Controller, or Supply Chain Administrator in the FMCG sector
With an NQF Level 2 qualification, you can also pursue further education like Level 3 retail qualifications or store‑management learnerships.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is this a permanent job? No. It’s a fixed‑term contract, but good performance can improve future prospects.
- Do I get paid? Yes, the programme includes a stipend in line with programme guidelines. Check the official listing for details.
- Do I need retail experience? No – the programme is open to those with no prior retail background.
- Can I study part‑time while applying? Only if you remain unemployed and not registered on another skills programme.
- What happens after 12 months? You receive an NQF Level 2 qualification and a work‑experience certificate to boost your CV.
Take Action Now
The closing date is 5 March 2026. Retail programmes attract a lot of applicants, so the earlier you apply the better your chances. Use the official link above, prepare your documents, and submit before the deadline. Good luck!
