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Apply for the Gold Fields 2026 Learnership Programme under the South Deep Social Development and YES Initiative. Gain hands-on training, work experience, and professional development in mining. Applications close 19 November 2025.
Gold Fields 2026 Learnership Programme: Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future
As South Africa continues to confront the challenge of youth unemployment, Gold Fields South Deep Mine has introduced an opportunity that combines skill development, career exposure, and empowerment — the 2026 Learnership (Cadet) Programme.
This 12-month initiative, conducted in partnership with the National Youth Employment Service (YES), provides unemployed young people with meaningful work experience and professional growth within one of the country’s most respected mining companies.
What Is the Gold Fields Learnership Programme?
The Gold Fields 2026 Cadet Programme is a structured, year-long training experience designed to provide unemployed youth with practical knowledge, technical skills, and on-the-job exposure in both underground and surface mining environments.
The goal is simple yet powerful — to prepare participants for real employment opportunities, whether within the mining industry or in other technical fields.
Participants will gain exposure to various departments, develop a strong work ethic, and build essential skills such as teamwork, communication, and safety awareness — all under the mentorship of seasoned professionals.
Key Details
- Programme Duration: 12 months
- Location: South Deep Mine, Westonaria, Gauteng
- Job Grading: NG
- Departments: Various (Underground and Surface Operations)
- Closing Date: 19 November 2025
This is a full-time learning and work exposure programme, offering young South Africans an opportunity to learn in a real workplace environment.
Who Should Apply?
Gold Fields is calling for motivated, responsible, and hardworking youth eager to develop a career in mining or related industries.
Preference will be given to:
Useful Links:
- Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSA) aged 18–34 years.
- Applicants from Gold Fields’ host communities, including:
- Bekkersdal
- Zuurberkom
- Thusanang
- Hillshaven
- Westonaria
- Poortjie
- Simunye
- Kalbasfontein
- Jachtfontein
- Westonaria Borwa
What Makes You Eligible
To be considered for this programme, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be unemployed and have no prior formal work experience.
- Be fluent in English, both written and spoken.
- Have completed Matric (Grade 12) or an equivalent qualification.
- Be physically fit and able to obtain a Certificate of Fitness from the Gold Fields Occupational Health Centre.
- Be willing to work underground and/or on surface, including rotational shifts and extended hours when required.
Host Community Criteria
If you are from one of Gold Fields’ host communities, you must either:
- Reside permanently in one of the listed communities, and/or
- Have matriculated at a school located in that community.
This ensures that local residents are given priority access to employment and learning opportunities — aligning with Gold Fields’ broader commitment to community development.
Why This Learnership Matters
For many young South Africans, entering the job market can be challenging without work experience. The Gold Fields Learnership bridges this gap by combining education, training, and real-world exposure in a safe and structured environment.
Programme Benefits
- Comprehensive Training: Hands-on experience in operational mining areas.
- Mentorship: Guidance from qualified mining professionals.
- Skills Development: Gain industry-specific technical and safety skills.
- Professional Exposure: Experience a professional work environment with set standards.
- Career Readiness: Build confidence and employability for future opportunities.
This is not merely a job — it’s a stepping stone toward a lifelong career in one of South Africa’s core industries.
How to Apply
Applications are open until 19 November 2025. Interested candidates can apply directly through the official Gold Fields careers portal.
Apply Here: Gold Fields Careers Portal
Application Steps
- Visit the online application link.
- Complete the application form with accurate personal and educational information.
- Upload required documents, including:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Matric certificate or equivalent qualification
- Proof of residence (for host community applicants)
- Updated CV
- Review and submit your application before the deadline.
Important: Gold Fields does not charge any application or recruitment fees. Be cautious of scams or anyone asking for payment to secure placement.
If you encounter technical issues or need support during the application process, contact the Gold Fields Recruitment Hub at 011 411 1387.
What Happens After You Apply
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments, interviews, and medical fitness checks. Successful applicants will then join the 2026 cohort and begin their 12-month journey in early 2026.
All learners will undergo safety and operational training before starting workplace rotations to ensure full compliance with Gold Fields’ health, safety, and environmental standards.
Why Gold Fields?
Gold Fields is one of the world’s leading gold mining companies with operations in South Africa, Ghana, Australia, and Peru. The South Deep Mine in Westonaria represents the company’s long-term investment in sustainable mining and community growth.
Through initiatives like the Cadet Programme, Gold Fields demonstrates its ongoing commitment to:
- Youth empowerment
- Local community upliftment
- Skills transfer and employment creation
- Diversity and inclusion in the workplace
The company’s vision extends beyond mining — it aims to develop capable, confident individuals who contribute positively to society.
Expert Opinion: Why Learnerships Drive Real Change
In South Africa’s evolving economy, practical training and on-the-job exposure have become essential for employability. Traditional education often doesn’t provide the real-world experience employers seek.
Learnerships like this one help bridge that gap by providing structured, mentored training that aligns with both academic knowledge and industry needs. Participants leave the programme more confident, skilled, and ready for the workforce — increasing their long-term employability prospects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Who can apply for the Gold Fields 2026 Learnership Programme?
South African youth aged 18–34 who are unemployed and meet the academic and community criteria are eligible to apply.
Q2: Is prior mining experience required?
No, this programme is designed specifically for individuals without previous formal work experience.
Q3: What will I earn during the learnership?
Learners receive a stipend in line with company policy and national learnership regulations.
Q4: Will I get a job after completing the programme?
While permanent employment is not guaranteed, participants gain valuable experience and skills that improve their employability in the mining and broader industrial sectors.
Q5: When does the programme start?
The 2026 cohort is expected to begin in early 2026 after all assessments and onboarding processes are completed.
Final Thoughts
The Gold Fields 2026 Learnership Programme is more than a training opportunity — it’s a pathway to growth, stability, and empowerment for South Africa’s youth. By combining education, mentorship, and real industry experience, it prepares participants for the next step in their careers.
If you’re ready to challenge yourself, learn from experienced professionals, and take the first step into the mining sector, this is your moment.
Closing Date: 19 November 2025
Apply Now: Gold Fields Careers Portal
Assistance Line: 011 411 1387
