How to Write a CV for a Learnership

Tips for Writing a Job Winning CV For a Learnership

So, you found a learnership you’re interested in — maybe something technical like the Code 14 driving programme from CPDA, or a hands-on trade through Thandeka. That’s a solid step forward. But now comes the part that trips up a lot of youth in South Africa: writing your CV.

Here’s the honest truth: your CV is your first impression. Before they see you or hear from you, they read your CV. If it’s messy, unclear, or empty — you’re out before you even start. But if it’s sharp, clean, and focused — even if you have little to no experience — you’re already ahead of most people.

This guide will walk you through how to write a CV specifically a learnership, with examples and tips drawn from real learnerships like Thandeka, CPDA, and Duja Consulting — all covered in this article about technical learnerships.

What Makes a Learnership CV Different?

A CV for a learnership isn’t the same as one for a senior job. Employers know you’re just starting out. They’re not looking for years of experience — they’re looking for potential. They want to see that you’re:

• Serious about learning
• Able to follow instructions
• Willing to commit and grow

So don’t stress about not having experience. Instead, your CV should focus on:

• Basic personal info
• Education background
• Career interests or goals
• Any short courses, volunteering, or informal experience
• Your motivation for applying

Step-by-Step: How to Structure Your CV

1. Start with Personal Info

Keep it simple and professional:

Name: Sibusiso Dlamini
Phone: 072 345 6789
Email: sibusiso.d@example.com
Location: Dobsonville, Soweto, Gauteng
ID Number: 91235123456

Don’t use email addresses like partyboy1999@email.com. Set up a free, simple Gmail account for job applications.

2. Write a Short Personal Profile (3–4 lines max)

This is your mini intro — a short paragraph that says who you are and what you’re aiming for.

Example (for Thandeka Learnership):

I’m a motivated, hands-on individual interested in developing practical skills in electrical work. I enjoy working with tools and learning how things operate, and I’m looking for a technical learnership that can help me gain real-world experience in the trades industry.

Example (for CPDA Driver Learnership):

I am a responsible and safety-conscious individual currently holding a Code 10 licence. My goal is to pursue a professional truck driving career through a Code 14 learnership, and I’m ready to work hard and learn the transport industry inside out.

You may also look: 4 Learnership Providers in Gauteng You Should Know

3. Education Section

Be straight foward about what type of education qualifications you have, by stating duration (periods), courses or subjects you have completed.

Matric – Meadowlands High School
Completed: 2022
Subjects Passed: Maths Literacy, English, Life Orientation, Business Studies, Tourism

 If you didn’t complete matric, say:

National Senior Certificate – Incomplete (Grade 11)

If you did any short courses or online skills training (like from Duja or any free platform), list them here too.

4. Experience (Even If It’s Informal)

Don’t leave this blank. Even if it’s volunteering, helping a family business, or doing informal work, add it.

Example:

Informal Work – Uncle’s Spaza Shop
Role: Cashier and Stock Assistant
Duration: Jan 2022 – Nov 2022
Tasks: Managed stock, helped with deliveries, served customers.

Example for someone with nothing formal:

Personal Projects
Built basic electrical circuits at home using kits and tutorials. Helped neighbours fix plugs and small repairs.

Anything that shows responsibility, effort, or initiative matters.

5. Skills Section

Think practical here. These are useful even for entry-level learners.

• Good communication

• Can follow instructions

• Time management

• Willing to work in a team

• Basic computer literacy

• Comfortable with physical labour (for Thandeka/CPDA roles)

Add anything job-specific:

• Valid Code 10 Driver’s Licence (for CPDA)

• Knowledge of tools and handwork (for Thandeka)

• Basic Excel or typing skills (for Duja)

6. References

If you don’t have job references, use:

• A former teacher

• A local leader (coach, church member, etc.)

• Someone you worked with informally

Mr. Dube
High School Teacher – Meadowlands High
Cell: 081 456 7789

Conclusion

You don’t need a degree to have a good CV. You just need clarity, structure, and the right details. Keep in mind, when it comes to learnerships, the willingness to learn is more important than what’s already on your CV.

So whether you’re applying to Thandeka to learn a trade, CPDA to become a truck driver, or Duja for tech admin work — your CV is what gets you through the first door.

Your first opportunity might just be one well-written CV away.