South Deep Gold Mine invites Westonaria residents to apply for the Learner Miner 2025 Learnership. Get trained by experts and start your mining journey today!
What Is the Learner Miner Programme at South Deep?
The Learner Miner 18.1 Programme is a formal learnership that combines theoretical training and on-site practical experience at South Deep Gold Mine, located in Westonaria, South Africa. The programme is managed by the mine’s Human Resource Development Department, with oversight from sector regulators like the MQA (Mining Qualifications Authority) and DMRE (Department of Mineral Resources and Energy).
Why Apply? Key Benefits of the Learner Miner Programme
Here’s why this opportunity is worth your application:
- Get paid to learn: You’ll receive a monthly stipend while gaining valuable mining skills.
- Practical on-the-job training: Work directly in mining environments under the supervision of skilled professionals.
- Career development: This programme is a stepping stone to permanent roles in the mining sector.
- Local economic upliftment: The programme prioritizes applicants from surrounding communities.
- Safety-first culture: South Deep Gold Mine upholds strict safety and compliance standards.
- Nationally recognised: The training aligns with MQA and DMRE frameworks, boosting your employability across the mining industry.
If you’re serious about pursuing a long-term career in mining, this learnership is the ideal foundation.
Who Can Apply? Learner Miner 2025 Eligibility Requirements
- Grade 12 certificate (NQF 4) OR an N3 qualification (must include two languages passed).
- Medical fitness clearance: You must pass a risk-based medical exam at the Gold Fields Occupational Health Centre, including a Heat Tolerance Screening Test.
- Must be proficient in English (spoken and written).
In addition, applicants must either:
- Live in one of the host communities offered by South Deep, which include:
- Bekkersdal
- Zuurberkom
- Thusanang
- Hillshaven
- Westonaria
- Poortjie
- Simunye
- Kalbasfontein
- Jachtfontein
OR
- Have completed matric (Grade 12) at a school located in one of these communities.
Note: You must provide proof that you live in the host community or attend school there.
Key Responsibilities and What You’ll Learn
As a Learner Miner, you won’t just observe — you’ll be an active participant in mining operations. Here’s what you’ll be doing:
Technical Training:
- Learn about safe mining practices, underground mining procedures, and equipment use.
Workplace Responsibilities:
- Follow all health, safety, and environmental protocols on-site.
- Perform duties and tasks as assigned by your supervisors and mentors.
- Engage in technical evaluations to track your performance and learning.
Personal Development:
- Take ownership of your career development — set goals and engage in feedback sessions.
- Embrace the values of teamwork, accountability, and professional conduct.
- Be open to continuous learning and show a positive attitude toward training challenges.
Company Values:
You’ll be expected to align with the core values of South Deep Gold Mine:
- Safety
- Integrity
- Respect
- Responsibility
- Innovation
- Collaborative delivery
These values aren’t just on paper — they guide how work is done and how employees grow at South Deep.
When and How to Apply
Closing Date: 14 August 2025
To apply for the Learner Miner Programme 2025:
- Prepare your application package, including:
- A comprehensive and updated CV.
- Your ID and your Grade 12/N3 certificate in certified copies.
- Evidence that you live in or attend school in one of the host communities on the list.
- Any relevant mining experience documentation (if applicable).
- Submit your application via the official Gold Fields recruitment platform or directly through the South Deep Gold Mine HRD offices.
- If you encounter any issues with your application, you can contact the Recruitment Hub at 011 411 1387 for assistance.
Important Notes for Applicants
- Only complete applications with all required documents will be considered.
- Gold Fields is committed to diversity and equity in employment — all applicants will be treated fairly, and previously disadvantaged individuals are encouraged to apply.
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews and medical evaluations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is this a paid learnership?
Yes, learners receive a monthly stipend during the 18.1 programme to support their participation.
2. Can I apply if I’m not from a host community?
Priority is strictly given to residents or former students of South Deep’s host communities. Proof is required.
3. What is an 18.1 learnership?
An 18.1 learnership is for people who are already employed or contracted to the employer offering the programme, or for community members with specific qualifications. It differs from an 18.2 learnership, which is often open to unemployed youth with no industry experience.
4. How long is the programme?
The duration can vary depending on the training schedule, but it’s designed to give comprehensive, structured training that meets MQA standards.
5. Is permanent employment guaranteed after the learnership?
While permanent placement is not guaranteed, learners who complete the programme successfully and meet performance expectations may be considered for available positions.
Start Your Mining Career with South Deep Gold Mine
The Learner Miner 2025 Learnership Programme is more than just a job opportunity — it’s a serious career starter for residents of Westonaria and surrounding host communities. If you’ve been looking for a structured way to gain technical mining skills, build a professional foundation, and become part of one of South Africa’s most respected gold mining operations, this is your chance.
With its focus on training, safety, and local empowerment, South Deep is offering much more than a learnership — it’s offering a future.
Apply by 14 August 2025 and take your first step into a high-demand, high-value career in mining.
