Time is running out – the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness will close applications for a Patient Care Assistant Internship on 3 July 2026. This is a real chance to start a career in health care while earning a monthly stipend.
What the internship is
The department is offering a Youth Development Programme at Vredenburg Hospital in the Saldanha Sub‑district. Ten interns will work in the hospital for up to 31 March 2027. You will receive a stipend of R4 774 per month while you learn on the job.
Who can apply
- Age: 18 to 35 years
- Education: General Education and Training Certificate (GETC) or Grade 9 (Standard 7) equivalent
- Experience: previous work as a Community Health Worker (or similar) is required
- Physical ability: able to stand long periods, lift patients, work shifts, weekends and public holidays
- Preference will be given to applicants who live in the West Coast District
What you will gain
The role gives you hands‑on experience in a public hospital. You will learn:
- How to support nurses and doctors with non‑clinical tasks
- Patient handling, transport and basic comfort care
- Hospital safety and infection‑prevention practices
- Teamwork and communication in a health‑care setting
- Skills that can lead to jobs in health support, community health, nursing, caregiving or hospital administration
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents: certified copy of your ID, certified qualifications, and proof of your Community Health Worker experience. All documents must be dated within the last six months.
- Make sure you have internet access. If not, use a public library, a community centre, a school computer lab or an internet café.
- Visit the official application page: Apply online here.
- Complete the online form before the deadline (3 July 2026). Double‑check that every field is filled correctly.
- After you submit, keep a copy of the confirmation screen. If you are shortlisted, you will be asked to bring the certified documents to the interview.
Tips to improve your chances
- Tailor your CV to highlight any health‑care or community work you have done.
- Use clear, simple language and avoid spelling mistakes.
- Attach a short cover letter that explains why you want to work at Vredenburg Hospital and how the internship fits your career goals.
- Practice common interview questions such as “How would you handle a difficult patient?” or “Can you work night shifts?”
- Apply early – technical glitches are more likely close to the deadline.
Next steps
If you meet the criteria, start preparing your documents today. Submit your application before 3 July 2026 and take the first step toward a rewarding career in South Africa’s health sector.
