Pepkor Lifestyle Learnership (W&R SETA Funded): Requirements, Benefits and How to Apply

What this article will help you do

If you’re unemployed and looking for a practical way to gain retail experience, this guide will help you understand how the Learnership (W&R SETA funded) at Pepkor Lifestyle works—and how to apply with confidence.

This is a step-by-step, realistic guide based on what you actually need to know before applying.

What is the Pepkor Lifestyle Learnership?

The Pepkor Lifestyle Learnership is a structured training programme designed to give young South Africans both:

• Workplace experience in retail
• A formal qualification through W&R SETA

This means you don’t just work—you also study and gain a recognised certificate.

What makes it different?

Unlike a normal job:

• You are trained while working
• You earn a monthly stipend (not a full salary)
• You gain skills that can help you get future retail jobs

Who should apply?

This learnership is designed for people who are:

• Unemployed
• Interested in retail (stores, customers, sales)
• Looking for entry-level experience
• Willing to learn and work shifts

Ideal candidate example

If you just finished matric and:

• Don’t have work experience
• Want to work in stores like furniture, electronics, or clothing
• Need a starting point

This learnership is a strong option.

Minimum requirements

While exact requirements may vary slightly, most applicants should meet the following:

Basic requirements checklist

• Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent
• Age typically between 18–35
• South African citizen
• Currently unemployed
• No criminal record
• Willing to work retail hours (including weekends)

Important note

Retail is not a 9–5 job. You may work:

• Weekends
• Public holidays
• Shift-based schedules

What you will learn during the programme

This learnership focuses on real retail skills you will actually use.

Core training areas

You can expect to learn:

• Customer service basics
• Sales techniques
• Handling payments and tills
• Stock control and merchandising
• Workplace communication
• Store operations

Real-life example

Instead of just reading about customer service, you will:

• Help real customers
• Solve complaints
• Learn how to upsell products

That’s what makes this learnership valuable.

What qualification do you get?

At the end of the programme, you may receive a:

• National Certificate in Wholesale and Retail

This qualification is:

• Recognised in South Africa
• Useful for retail jobs
• A good foundation for further studies

How much do you get paid?

Learnerships usually pay a monthly stipend, not a full salary.

What to expect

• Enough to cover basic expenses (transport, food)
• Lower than a permanent retail job salary

Why this still matters

Even though the pay is lower:

• You gain experience
• You improve your CV
• You increase your chances of getting hired later

Benefits of this Learnership (W&R SETA funded)

Here’s what you gain beyond just money:

1. Work experience

Many employers require experience. This programme gives you that.

2. Formal qualification

You don’t just work—you get certified through W&R SETA.

3. Better job opportunities

After completion, you can apply for:

• Retail assistant roles
• Cashier positions
• Sales consultant jobs

4. Confidence and skills

You learn how to:

• Talk to customers
• Handle pressure
• Work in a team

How to apply (Step-by-step)

You can apply online using the official vacancy link.

Step 1: Go to the application page

Use the official link:
https://pepkorlifestyle.simplify.hr/Vacancy/177532

Step 2: Create an account

• Register with your email
• Create a password

Step 3: Complete your profile

Fill in:

• Personal details
• Education (Matric info)
• Contact details

Step 4: Upload documents

Prepare these documents:

• Certified copy of ID
• Matric certificate
• Updated CV

Step 5: Submit your application

• Double-check your information
• Click submit

Tips to improve your chances

Many people apply for learnerships. These tips can help you stand out.

1. Keep your CV simple and clear

Include:

• Education
• Any experience (even volunteering)
• Contact details

2. Show willingness to learn

Employers value attitude more than experience.

3. Be honest

Do not:

• Fake qualifications
• Exaggerate experience

4. Apply early

Positions can close once enough applications are received.

Common mistakes to avoid

Incomplete applications

Missing documents can get your application rejected.

Wrong contact details

If your phone number is wrong, you won’t be contacted.

Ignoring instructions

Always follow what the application asks for.

What happens after you apply?

If shortlisted, you may go through:

1. Screening process
2. Interview or assessment
3. Final selection

Tip

Always answer unknown calls during this period—you might miss an opportunity.

Can this lead to a permanent job?

There is no guarantee, but it can happen.

Possible outcomes

• You may be offered a permanent role
• You may use the experience to find another job

Realistic expectation

Think of this learnership as a stepping stone, not a final destination.

Final thoughts

The Pepkor Lifestyle Learnership (W&R SETA funded) is one of the most practical ways to start a career in retail in South Africa.

It gives you:

• Real work experience
• A recognised qualification
• A chance to build your future

If you meet the requirements and are willing to learn, it’s worth applying.