The SPAR YES-4-Youth Learnership Programme 2026 is a 12-month paid work experience opportunity created to help young South Africans gain real workplace exposure, practical skills, and confidence needed to enter the job market. This programme is run by SPAR, one of South Africa’s leading retail groups, in partnership with Catalyx as part of the national Youth Employment Service (YES) initiative.
This opportunity is ideal for young people who have completed Matric (Grade 12) and are currently unemployed. The programme focuses on giving participants hands-on experience in a real working environment while helping them build skills that will improve their chances of finding permanent employment in the future.
📌 About the Programme
The YES-4-Youth programme runs for 12 months and places successful applicants in different SPAR workplaces across South Africa. These placements may be in:
- SPAR retail stores
- Distribution centres
- Head and regional offices
- Business support departments
During the programme, participants will gain exposure to how a large retail business operates. You will work alongside experienced staff members and learn how daily business activities are managed.
💼 What You Will Gain
If selected, you will benefit in many ways, including:
✔ Hands-on work experience in a real job environment
✔ Department rotation, allowing you to learn different roles and skills
✔ A monthly stipend to support you during the programme (amount depends on placement)
✔ Practical workplace skills in areas such as:
- Retail operations
- Customer service
- Logistics and supply chain
- Administration
- Human Resources (HR)
- Marketing and business support
This programme is designed to prepare you for future employment and help you build a strong CV with relevant experience.
👥 Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the SPAR YES-4-Youth Learnership Programme 2026, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between 18 and 28 years old
- Have passed Matric (Grade 12)
- Be currently unemployed
- Not be studying full-time at any institution
- Be willing to work retail hours, including weekends and shifts
- Be committed, reliable, and eager to learn
No previous work experience is required, making this programme ideal for first-time job seekers.
📝 How to Apply
Applying is simple and completely free. Follow the steps below:
👉 Apply online using this link:
https://forms.gle/QUtvRTh3SDA3sAqy9
Make sure you have the following documents ready before applying:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate
⚠️ Important: SPAR does not charge any fees for applications. Be careful of scams and only apply using the official link provided.
⏳ Closing Date
There is no fixed closing date. Applications will remain open until all positions are filled. Because of high demand, it is strongly advised to apply as early as possible.
📢 Final Words
The SPAR YES-4-Youth Learnership Programme 2026 is a great opportunity for young people who are serious about building their future. If you are looking for work experience, skills development, and a chance to enter the job market, this programme is for you.
👉 Apply early, prepare your documents, and take the first step toward your career journey.
Follow our page for more learnerships, internships, and youth job opportunities in South Africa 🇿🇦