Hospitality Learnership 2026 at Sun International. NC Food & Beverage Services training programme for unemployed youth with Matric.
Sun International, one of South Africa’s leading hospitality and leisure groups, is committed to meaningful skills development. Through this programme, learners will receive structured training that combines both theoretical learning and hands-on practical experience within a professional hotel environment.
About Sun International and The Maslow Hotel Sandton
Sun International is a respected name in the hospitality and leisure industry, operating world-class hotels, resorts, and entertainment destinations across South Africa. The Maslow Hotel Sandton, located in the heart of Johannesburg’s business district, is known for its premium service standards, conference facilities, and exceptional dining experiences.
By joining this learnership programme, you will become part of a team that values service excellence, teamwork, and continuous development.
What Is the NC Food & Beverage Services Learnership?
The NC F&B Services Learnership is a structured training programme that focuses on developing practical hospitality skills within a real workplace setting. The programme runs for 12 months and is outcome-based, meaning learners must successfully complete both theoretical coursework and practical workplace components to achieve the qualification.
This qualification aims to:
- Address the skills gap within the hospitality sector
- Equip young people with industry-relevant skills
- Improve employability within hotels, restaurants, and catering establishments
- Provide structured workplace exposure in a professional environment
Successful learners will enter into a legally binding learnership agreement between the Employer (Sun International), the Learner, and the Service Provider for the duration of the programme.
What You Will Learn During the Programme
During the 12-month learnership, learners will gain valuable exposure to various aspects of Food & Beverage operations, including:
1. Customer Service Excellence
You will learn how to:
- Interact professionally with hotel guests
- Handle customer queries and complaints effectively
- Deliver service that meets five-star hospitality standards
- Create positive guest experiences
2. Food and Beverage Service Operations
Learners will gain practical training in:
- Restaurant service procedures
- Table setup and presentation standards
- Order taking and menu knowledge
- Serving food and beverages correctly
- Maintaining hygiene and safety standards
3. Workplace Communication
Effective communication is critical in hospitality. The programme will develop your:
- Written and spoken English communication skills
- Professional telephone etiquette
- Teamwork and collaboration abilities
4. Problem-Solving and Professional Conduct
Learners will develop:
- Proactive thinking skills
- The ability to resolve guest-related challenges
- Professional workplace behaviour
- Time management and shift flexibility
This combination of classroom learning and workplace exposure ensures that learners graduate with practical, job-ready skills.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is specifically designed for:
- Unemployed South African youth
- Individuals who have completed Grade 12 (Matric)
- Candidates who are passionate about hospitality
- Individuals eager to gain work experience and a qualification
Sun International encourages candidates living with disabilities to apply, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive employment and equal opportunity.
Minimum Requirements
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Authenticated copy of a Matric certificate or a comparable NQF Level credential
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A letter of motivation outlining your reasons for wanting to participate in the program
Advantage:
A hospitality-related certificate will be beneficial but is not mandatory.
Key Competencies Required
Strong Interpersonal Skills
Hospitality is people-focused. You must be comfortable engaging with guests and colleagues in a professional and friendly manner.
Passion for Customer Service
Service excellence is at the heart of Sun International’s operations. You should genuinely enjoy assisting others and creating memorable guest experiences.
Proactive and Solution-Oriented Mindset
The ability to identify issues and take initiative in resolving them is highly valued in hotel environments.
Flexibility to Work Shifts
Hospitality operates around the clock. Learners must be willing and able to work shifts, including weekends and public holidays when required.
Why This Learnership Is Valuable
Many young people struggle to gain employment due to lack of work experience. This programme bridges that gap by providing:
- Recognised qualification in Food & Beverage Services
- Real workplace experience in a reputable hotel
- Exposure to industry standards and professional service delivery
- Improved employability within the hospitality sector
- Networking opportunities within the industry
Completing this programme significantly increases your chances of securing permanent employment in hotels, restaurants, conference centres, catering companies, and other hospitality establishments.
Programme Duration and Structure
- Duration: 12 months
- Type: Temporary Learnership
- Positions Available: 10
- Salary: Market Related
- Industry: Hotel / Catering / Hospitality / Leisure
Learners will alternate between theoretical learning sessions and practical workplace training facilitated at The Maslow Hotel Sandton.
Legal and Contractual Agreement
This learnership is governed by a formal agreement between:
- The Employer (Sun International)
- The Learner
- The Training Service Provider
Successful candidates will sign a learnership contract for the full 12-month period. Completion of both the academic and workplace components is mandatory in order to receive the qualification.
How to Prepare a Strong Application
To increase your chances of selection:
- Write a compelling motivational letter explaining your passion for hospitality.
- Highlight any customer service experience, even informal roles.
- Verify that every document is current and certified.
- Present a neat, professional CV.
Remember, this programme seeks committed individuals who are serious about building a career in hospitality.
NC Food & Beverage Services Learnership at Sun International’s Maslow Hotel Sandton is more than just temporary employment — it is a stepping stone into the hospitality industry. With structured training, practical exposure, and a recognised qualification, this opportunity equips young people with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the competitive hotel and catering sector.
