Looking for a solid first step into the hospitality world? The Joburg City Theatres (JCT) CATHSSETA‑Funded Professional Cookery Learnership is open for applications until 29 July 2026, and it could give you both a recognised qualification and real‑world kitchen experience.
What the learnership offers
- Employer: Joburg City Theatres (JCT)
- Programme: CATHSSETA‑Funded Learnership
- Qualification: Certificate in Professional Cookery (NQF Level 4)
- Duration: 12 months
- Monthly stipend: R3 500
- Location: City of Johannesburg
- Closing date: 29 July 2026
- Reference number: REF. NO. JCT/2026/07
Who can apply
You should meet all of the following criteria:
- South African citizen, aged 18‑35
- Unemployed and living within the City of Johannesburg
- Completed Grade 12 (Matric) or an equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification
- English was a subject in Grade 12
- Passionate about cooking and hospitality
- Available for the full 12‑month programme (classroom and workplace)
- Not registered in another learnership, internship or funded skills programme
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Reliable, committed and willing to learn
What you will gain
Qualified skills
The Certificate in Professional Cookery (NQF Level 4) covers both theory and practice. You will learn how to:
- Prepare and present food safely
- Maintain kitchen hygiene and follow food‑safety rules
- Plan menus and manage stock
- Work effectively in a team
- Handle customer service situations
- Communicate professionally in a busy kitchen
Financial support
You will receive a monthly stipend of R3 500 throughout the learnership. The payment follows the CATHSSETA funding guidelines and helps cover basic costs.
Career outlook
After you finish, you can apply for entry‑level positions such as:
- Commis Chef
- Kitchen Assistant
- Catering Assistant
- Food Preparation Assistant
- Institutional Cook
With experience, you could move on to roles like Sous Chef, Head Chef or Kitchen Manager.
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents:
- Certified copy of South African ID (not older than 3 months)
- Certified copy of Grade 12 or equivalent qualification
- Proof of residence in Johannesburg (e.g., Ward Councillor confirmation letter)
- Updated CV
- Cover letter explaining your passion for cooking
- Make sure all certified copies are clear and dated within the last three months.
- Email your complete application to jobapplications5@joburgtheatre.com. Include the reference number REF. NO. JCT/2026/07 in the subject line or body.
- Send the email before the closing date (29 July 2026). Late submissions are unlikely to be considered.
Tips to improve your chances
- Write a concise, personalised cover letter that shows your love for cooking and willingness to learn.
- Keep your CV clear, free of errors, and focused on any relevant experience or volunteer work.
- Double‑check that every certified document is legible and up‑to‑date.
- Ensure your proof of residence clearly states you live within the City of Johannesburg.
- Use the exact reference number when you email the application.
- Submit well before the deadline to avoid last‑minute technical issues.
Take the next step
If you meet the eligibility criteria, this learnership could give you the qualification and hands‑on experience you need to start a career in hospitality. Gather your documents, craft a good cover letter, and email your application before 29 July 2026. Good luck!
