Firefighter Learnership: A Step-by-Step Guide
Becoming a firefighter is more than just a career; it’s about answering the call to serve, protect, and save lives. For young people and those looking to change their careers, enrolling in a firefighter learnership is the most accessible entry point into the profession. A firefighter learnership integrates classroom-based study with practical and experiential training under the supervision of industry veterans. If you wish to become a member of the fire service, the best place to start is to learn how to apply for a firefighter learnership.
1. Learn and Understand What a Firefighter Learnership Is
A firefighter learnership is a firefighter training program offered by government institutions, municipalities, fire services, or accredited training providers. Learnerships allow you to earn a nationally recognized qualification while you work and earn a stipend. A learnership covers topics including fire prevention, emergency response, rescue operations, hazardous materials and containers, and physical training. Learnerships can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months to complete. These programs prepare you for a permanent position in a fire department and are aimed at helping you become a full-time employee.
2. Check the Minimum Requirements
As an applicant, you should ensure that you have met the basic eligibility requirements. These requirements may vary depending on the institution, but the majority of firefighter learnerships have the following requirements for applicants:
- Be in the recruitment age of 18 – 35
- Have completed primary education, which can be in grade 10, 11, or 12.
- Be medically and physically fit.
- Have no serious criminal record.
- Have basic communication and numerical skills.
Some programs may also require you to have a driver’s license, be able to swim, or have proof of residency in a certain area. Always read the advert to avoid wasting time on applications that you are not qualified for.
3. Build Physical and Mental Readiness
When applying for firefighter learnerships, keep in mind that they are highly competitive. For a limited number of positions, thousands of applicants apply. One of the most relevant selection attributes is your overall physical fitness levels. To increase your chances of becoming physically fit, make an effort to improve your cardiovascular endurance, overall strength, flexibility, and stamina by starting exercises such as running, swimming, and weight training.
Additionally, mental fitness is a relevant attribute in the firefighter training field and so your mental fitness should also be improved. This is because the firefighting profession involves a great deal of high-pressure teamwork, and emotional resilience is needed. In your applications, demonstrate a positive attitude and show a willingness to learn as well as a strong work ethic to differentiate yourself as an applicant.
4. Gather Necessary Documentation
Starting an application with well-prepared documentation is a good practice. The most common documentation requirements are as follows:
- An updated curriculum vitae (CV)
- Certified copies of your ID
- Certified copies of your educational qualifications
- Proof of residence
- Driver’s license (if applicable)
Your CV should be concise, truthful, and pertinent to the position. Emergency services, volunteering, first aid, community service, athletics, or any position of authority and leadership should be explored. Even without any formal work experience, demonstrating your commitment and discipline may make a positive impact.
5. Obtain Valid Learnership Prospects
Look for firefighter learnerships that are available through official routes. These may include municipal and government gazette listings, fire department bulletin boards, training colleges, and some reputable online job boards. Only apply through these channels to avoid scams. Choose learnerships that do not require an application or placement fee.
Learnerships may be infrequently posted, so develop the routine of checking these sites often. Applying too late could mean another year without this opportunity.
6. Applying the Right Way
Make sure you pay attention to the details in the job ad. It will specifically say if the application should be completed online, or if you need to submit an application in person, or send the application via email. A lot of people miss out on the chance even for late applications, applications that don’t include all of the required documents, or applications that don’t follow the right process.
Make sure your documents are labeled, sign all copies, and if you are doing an online application, make sure you loaded everything and received a confirmation before you shut the application.
7. Get Yourself Ready for the Tests and the Interview
If the next part of the process involves you, you will have to take part in some physical tests, some written tests, and maybe a medical exam, and an interview. What they are trying to determine is if you have the physical and mental capacity to solve problems, work in a team, and motivate others,
When you are in the interview, be yourself. You should show that you know what the job of a firefighter is, and that you are committed to your community. The fire service likes to see discipline, respect, and professionalism.
8. Keep Being Patient
If you don’t get selected for the job, it does not mean you have failed. Most fire fighters have applied many times before they eventually get the job. Make sure you use every opportunity to see what you can do better, like your fitness, or get some more qualifications like first aid, and make sure you add it to your application.
South Africa’s Learnerships and Internships Portal
Bergrivier Municipality Fire Fighter Learnerships 2026
Bergrivier Municipality invites South African unemployed residents to apply for Learner Fire Fighter Vacancies 2026 (Velddrif & Redelinghuys).
Learner Fire Fighter Application Closing Date: Friday, 09 January 2026 at 15:00
Job Location: Bergrivier Municipality (Velddrif and Redelinghuys), Western Cape, South Africa
Learner Fire Fighter Vacancies 2026 – Bergrivier Municipality (Erratum)
Bergrivier Municipality has issued an ERRATUM confirming that internal and external applications will be considered for the following Learner Fire Fighter vacancies under the Directorate: Community Services:
- Learner Fire Fighter (Velddrif) – Ref: GD199/381/VD
- Learner Fire Fighter (Redelinghuys) – Ref: GD200/381/RH
Bergrivier Municipality’s head office is in Piketberg, about 90 minutes from Cape Town, and the municipality remains committed to equal employment opportunities. Women and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
⚠️ Important: Only applications within the Bergrivier Municipal area (WC013) will be considered and no faxes or electronic applications will be accepted.
Quick Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Municipality | Bergrivier Municipality |
| Directorate | Community Services |
| Position | Learner Fire Fighter |
| Locations | Velddrif & Redelinghuys (Western Cape) |
| References | GD199/381/VD (Velddrif), GD200/381/RH (Redelinghuys) |
| Minimum Qualification | Grade 12 |
| Experience | None required |
| Driving Licence | Code C1 |
| Salary | R145 440.00 per annum (T05 – Category 3 Local Authority) |
| Start Date | 01 March 2026 or as soon as possible |
| Closing Date | Friday, 09 January 2026 at 15:00 |
| Applications | Hardcopy only |
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet all the following requirements:
- Grade 12
- Code C1 driving licence
- Proficiency in at least two (2) official Western Cape languages (Afrikaans/English/isiXhosa) – speak, read and write
- Must pass a Department Physical Test upon entry and annually thereafter
- Must pass a medical test (NFPA 1582) pre-placement / post-offer / baseline
- Must have no mental phobias related to:
- Confined spaces (claustrophobia)
- Heights (acrophobia)
- Depths (bathphobia)
- Water (aquaphobia)
- Blood (homophobia)
- Darkness (achluophobia)
- Isolation (authophobia)
- Corpses (necrophobia)
- Physically and mentally fit
- Must be willing to work shifts and overtime
- Must be willing to work at any Fire Station/Facility within the area of jurisdiction as required by the Chief Fire Officer
- No criminal record
- Must complete/meet:
- Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT)
- Medical Test NFPA 1582
Job Purpose
Learner Fire Fighters perform a variety of tasks linked to:
- Firefighting and emergency rescue operations
- Rendering basic medical care
- Fire prevention and training activities
- Operating and maintaining fire apparatus and equipment
- Maintaining fire station facilities
- Protecting lives and property in line with the Fire Brigade Services Act (Act 99 of 1987)
All duties are performed under appropriate supervision during the learning and development phase.
Key Performance Areas
Once the required training and minimum qualifications have been achieved, incumbents will:
- Carry out firefighting activities and emergency operations under supervision
- Prepare for emergency incidents and protection duties to educate the public and reduce fire severity
- Ensure equipment and vehicles are safe, available, and operationally ready
- Maintain a safe and hygienic working environment
- Perform basic administration and record keeping under supervision
- Participate in the Municipality’s Performance Management and Development System
Competency Requirement
The competency level for this post is Fire and Rescue Level 1, aligned to Municipal Staff Regulations (Government Notice R890) published in Government Gazette 45181 (20 September 2021).
Salary and Benefits
- Salary: R145 440.00 per annum (T05 – Category 3 Local Authority)
- A service bonus equivalent to one month’s salary (where applicable)
- Normal municipal benefits (including housing allowance for qualifying home owners, subject to conditions)
How to Apply
Application forms are available:
- From the municipal website: www.bergmun.org.za
- Or on request: Tel: 022 913 6000
Submit the following (Hardcopy Only)
- Completed prescribed application form (only one post per application form)
- Covering letter with at least two (2) contactable references
- Certified copies of:
- Qualifications
- ID document
- Driver’s licence
- CV (maximum 3 pages)
Submit your application to:
Hand deliver to any Bergrivier Municipal Office within the municipal area:
Aurora, Eendekuil, Redelinghuys, Piketberg, Porterville & Velddrif
OR Post to:
Bergrivier Municipality
P.O. Box 60
Piketberg
7320
OR Courier to:
13 Church Street
Piketberg
7320
For the attention of: Mr DF Verhoog
⚠️ The onus is on the applicant to ensure the application reaches the municipality before the closing date. The municipality is not responsible for late or lost courier/mail deliveries.
Enquiries
- Mr N Williams
- Tel: 022 913 6000
Closing Date
CLOSING DATE: Friday, 09 January 2026 at 15:00
- Late applications will not be considered
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- If you do not receive feedback within six (6) weeks after closing, consider your application unsuccessful
- No faxes or electronic applications will be accepted
Final Thoughts
When applying for firefighter learnerships, consider the amount of work you must do up front. It is a long and difficult road, but one worth traveling if you are able to gain a respected and meaningful career. If you meet the requirements, prepare appropriately, and apply to the best of your ability, you will increase your chances of differentiating yourself from the rest of the applicants. Firefighting is an important profession and is far more than the simple notion of bravery; It is a true career of commitment, dedication, and genuine will to make a change.