Are you a Grade 11 learner or school leaver looking for a career start? The Chemical Industries Education & Training Authority (CHIETA) offers learnerships and skills programmes in the chemical industry — learn while you earn, gain a qualification, and step into a growing sector.
What is a Learnership and How CHIETA Makes It Work
- A learnership is a structured training programme combining classroom theory (~30%) and practical workplace training (~70%) resulting in an NQF‑registered qualification.
- CHIETA is the SETA for the chemical industries, responsible for identifying skills needs, accrediting providers and coordinating learnerships.
- Such programmes aim to boost employability among youth, especially in sectors like chemicals, manufacturing and processing.
Can You Apply With Grade 11? What the Info Says
- Many SETAs indicate that school leavers who have not yet completed Grade 12 (Matric) can still access learnerships at lower NQF levels (e.g., NQF Levels 1–3) depending on the programme.
- For CHIETA, the general public information lists learnerships, internships and skills programmes—but typically eligibility mentions Grade 12 with maths & science for many opportunities.
- Example: A plastics‑manufacturing learnership (under CHIETA’s sector) explicitly states “Grade 11 pass (Grade 12 is advantageous)”. Mysetalearnerships.co.za
- Bottom line: With Grade 11 you may apply for certain lower‑level learnerships under CHIETA or its partner companies, but many programmes prefer Matric (Grade 12) with relevant subjects. Always check the specific learnership’s requirements.
What to Look For / Ask Before You Apply
- Eligibility: Minimum education level (Grade 11 or Grade 12), required subjects (often maths & physical science)
- Duration & structure: How many months, classroom vs workplace time
- Stipend/allowance: Whether you receive a monthly stipend while training
- Qualification outcome: What NQF level qualification you’ll receive, and whether it leads to employment
- Application process: The documents required, closing date, how many positions
Typical Benefits of CHIETA Learnerships
- Earn while you learn: you are in a structured programme and may receive a stipend (although amounts vary).
- Nationally recognised qualification: Improves your chances in the job market and gives you a formal credential.
- Skills in a growing sector: The chemical and manufacturing industries need technically trained people — this means potential opportunities.
Step‑by‑Step: How to Apply
- Visit CHIETA’s website: check their Apprenticeships, Learnerships & Skills Programmes section.
- Download the application form or learnership enrolment process document. chieta.org.za
- Confirm the specific learnership you’re interested in and check its minimum requirements (Grade 11 vs Grade 12, required subjects, age range).
- Prepare your documents: Certified copy of ID, school results (Grade 11 or Grade 12), proof of residence, motivation letter.
- Submit your application before the closing date. Late or incomplete applications often won’t be considered.
- If shortlisted: you may be invited for assessments, interviews or tests.
Final Words
If you have Grade 11 and you’re motivated to move into the chemical industry, a CHIETA‑linked learnership could be a strong stepping stone.
That said — make sure to read the eligibility carefully: many programmes require Grade 12 with specific subjects.
Stay alert, apply early, and prepare well. Your career in the chemical sector can start now.