Top SETA-Accredited Security Learnerships to Apply for in 2026: Youth Guide
Earn while you learn. Become a professional security specialist.
SETA-accredited security learnerships for 2026 are open to unemployed youth aged 18–35. From tactical guarding to electronic surveillance, these programs provide legal, technical, and hands-on training for a stable career in South Africa’s booming security sector.SETA-accredited security learnerships for 2026 offer unemployed South African youth a chance to earn a stipend while gaining NQF-certified qualifications in guarding, armed response, electronic surveillance, and asset protection. Programs by SASSETA-aligned providers like Fidelity, G4S, and Bidvest Protea Coin combine legal training, tactical skills, and workplace experience.South Africa’s private security industry is one of the largest employers for youth—but getting certified is mandatory.Some of the top providers running accredited programs include:
1. Fidelity Services Group
24-month programs
Covers basic guarding and armed response
Includes legal compliance and workplace safety
2. G4S South Africa
Tactical training and cash-in-transit (CIT) programs
Advanced security techniques for high-risk environments
3. Bidvest Protea Coin
Technical security learnerships
Canine handling training
Specialized skill pathways
4. Stallion SecurityNQF Level 3 General Security certificates
Ideal for new entrants to the industry
What Are the Standard Requirements for Security Learnerships?
Security is a regulated field. Most SETA-accredited programs require the “Big Five”:
Citizenship: South African citizen with a valid ID
Education: Matric Certificate (Grade 12 minimum)
Criminal Record: Must be clean; SAPS vetting applies
Fitness: Basic physical fitness for guarding or tactical roles
PSIRA Readiness: Having a Grade E or C is advantageous
Meeting these requirements ensures eligibility and smoother registration with SASSETA and PSIRA.How Much Is the Stipend in 2026?
Stipends support transport and basic living costs during training.
In 2026, expect:
Range: R3,000 – R4,500 per month
Factors: NQF level, urban vs rural placement, employer/SASSETA budget
The stipend ensures learners can focus on training without financial strain.Steps to Protect Yourself:
Apply via Official Portals: Only use the company’s official website
Use SA Youth Platforms: SASSETA-linked opportunities are safer here
Avoid Agents: No legitimate learnership requires upfront training fees or deposits
Prepare Documents: Certified copies of ID, Matric certificate, and recent bank statement in one PDF
Following these steps reduces risk and ensures your application is valid.Itumeleng Ndlovu is the Founder and Managing Editor of SETA Careers, an independent South African platform dedicated to publishing accurate information about learnerships, bursaries, internships, and skills development programmes. She specialises in researching and verifying updates from official government departments, SETAs, TVET colleges, and accredited institutions to ensure readers receive clear, reliable, and up-to-date guidance. She is committed to simplifying complex education and career information so South African students and job seekers can make informed decisions with confidence.