For many young South Africans, not having a Matric certificate often feels like the end of the road when it comes to finding a job or building a career. But thanks to organisations like TLO (The Learning Organisation), that doesn’t have to be the case. If you’ve completed Grade 11 and are eager to gain practical work experience while earning a national qualification, TLO learnerships could be the ideal opportunity to jumpstart your future.
In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about TLO Learnerships for Grade 11 learners—including what they are, who can apply, what benefits they offer, and how to start your application.
Who Is TLO – The Learning Organisation?
TLO (The Learning Organisation) is an accredited South African training provider that partners with government, SETAs, and private companies to deliver learnerships, skills development programmes, and workplace training. These programmes are fully aligned with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and are certified through various SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities).
Their mission is to provide young people and job seekers with relevant, accredited skills that will improve their employability—and best of all, their learnerships are 100% free for learners.
What Is a Learnership?
A learnership is a structured learning programme that combines theoretical education with practical work experience. At the end of the learnership, successful participants receive a nationally recognised qualification registered on the NQF.
For Grade 11 learners who didn’t complete Matric, this is a powerful way to gain marketable skills and enter the workforce, without needing a university degree or years of experience.
Can You Apply with Grade 11?
Yes, TLO accepts Grade 11 learners into specific learnership programmes—especially entry-level qualifications in areas like:
- Business Administration
- Call Centre Operations
- Sales and Marketing
- Wholesale & Retail
- Hospitality
- Hygiene and Cleaning
- IT Support
While some learnerships require Matric (Grade 12), others accept Grade 11 as a minimum—particularly for NQF Level 2 to 4 qualifications. This opens the door for many unemployed youth who are ready to learn, grow, and build a career from the ground up.
Related: WeThinkCode_ IT Learnership
Why Choose a TLO Learnership?
There are many reasons to consider applying for a TLO learnership, even if you only have Grade 11. Here are just a few:
1. No Matric? No Problem
TLO offers a pathway to a qualification for young people who didn’t complete high school but are eager to enter the working world.
2. No Tuition Fees
All learnerships through TLO are completely free. Learners do not pay for registration, training materials, or certification.
3. Earn While You Learn
Most learnerships offer a monthly stipend—so you’ll receive some income while gaining work experience.
4. Nationally Recognised Qualifications
These are accredited qualifications under the NQF, which means you can use them to apply for jobs or continue studying later.
5. Real Work Experience
You’ll be placed with a host employer where you’ll gain hands-on experience in a real work environment. This is invaluable when applying for future jobs.
6. Improved Job Opportunities
Having a recognised qualification and work experience significantly improves your chances of being employed full-time after completing the programme.
Where Are Learnerships Offered?
TLO operates nationally, with learnerships available in Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, and more. Your location may determine which learnerships are available, but TLO also offers blended learning options, including online public learnerships where applicable.
Entry Requirements
To apply for a TLO learnership with Grade 11, you must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between the ages of 18 and 35
- Have a minimum of Grade 11 (depending on the qualification)
- Be currently unemployed
- Be willing to commit to the full duration of the learnership (usually 12 months)
- Have a valid ID document
- Be able to provide certified copies of documents (ID, education, proof of address, etc.)
❗ Important: TLO never charges a fee to apply for any learnership. If someone asks for money, it is likely a scam.
How to Apply for a TLO Learnership
The application process is simple and straightforward. Here’s how:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Have the following ready:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copy of your Grade 11 report
- A clear, updated CV
- Proof of residence (municipal letter or affidavit)
Step 2: Write a Motivational Letter
Explain:
- Why you’re interested in the learnership
- What makes you a suitable candidate
- Your career goals
Step 3: Send Your Application
Email your documents and motivational letter to:
Make sure your email subject line clearly states the type of learnership you’re applying for. For example:
Subject: Application – Grade 11 Business Admin Learnership
Step 4: Wait for Feedback
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you don’t hear back within a few weeks, you can apply again during the next intake period.
Safety Tips When Applying
TLO has warned applicants to be cautious of scammers pretending to represent them. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Only apply via official channels (email addresses ending in
@tlo.co.za) - Do not pay any money to secure your spot
- Never share your banking PINs or personal passwords
💬 What Learners Are Saying
“I had no idea I could still study without Matric. This learnership helped me get my first job and gave me confidence.”
– Nokuthula M., Business Admin Learner
“TLO made it possible for me to gain experience in a real office. I learned so much and now have a certificate I can be proud of.”
– Thabo K., Call Centre Learnership Graduate
Can I Continue Studying After a Learnership?
Yes! Once you’ve completed an NQF-aligned learnership, you can often continue your studies at a higher level (e.g., NQF Level 4 or 5). You’ll also have real work experience on your CV, which opens many more doors.
When to Apply
TLO accepts applications throughout the year, but learnership intakes happen in cycles. It’s best to apply as early as possible, and check their website or social media pages for updates on new programmes.
TLO Learnerships for Grade 11 learners are a golden opportunity for young people who want to build a better future—without needing Matric or university. These programmes are free, accredited, and offer real-life work experience that can lead to permanent employment or further studies.
If you’re serious about learning, earning, and growing your career, this is the perfect chance to take your next step.
Ready to Apply?
Email your CV and motivation letter to:
📧 [email protected]
For more info, visit:
🌐 https://future.tlo.co.za
