If you’re a young South African looking to kickstart a career in food production and dairy processing, the 2025 Learnership Programme in Liquid Dairy Reception at Woodlands Dairy in Humansdorp, Eastern Cape might be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. Designed specifically for unemployed matriculants between the ages of 18 and 29, this 12-month learnership combines practical and theoretical training, giving you a hands-on introduction to the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry — with a focus on milk reception and processing.
Why Apply for the Woodlands Dairy Learnership Programme?
Woodlands Dairy is one of South Africa’s leading dairy manufacturers, committed to developing youth and empowering communities through sustainable employment and education. This learnership programme is not just about learning the ropes — it’s about building a professional future. You’ll gain exposure to the UHT (Ultra-High Temperature) milk production process, understand food safety protocols, and learn the technical elements of working in a high-standard production environment.
This opportunity is particularly valuable if:
- You have recently completed Grade 12 (Matric),
- You’re unemployed and eager to gain industry experience,
- You’re interested in the operations of food and dairy manufacturing,
Learnership Details: What to Expect
Location:
Humansdorp, Eastern Cape (at the Woodlands Dairy UHT Business Unit)
Programme Duration:
12 Months (full-time, part-theoretical and part-practical training)
Status:
Part-time Learnership
Division:
Operations – specifically in UHT (Ultra-High Temperature) milk processing
Minimum Experience Required:
None. This programme is specifically designed for entry-level candidates.
What Will You Learn During This Programme?
Over the course of the 12-month learnership, you will be exposed to a variety of key areas essential to the dairy industry, especially in the reception and processing of liquid milk. The programme curriculum includes:
- Milk Reception Techniques:
Learn how raw milk is delivered, tested, and received for processing. This step is crucial in maintaining product quality and safety from the very start of the production chain. - Understanding the Nature of Milk:
Develop a foundational understanding of milk as a raw material, including its physical properties, microbiology, and importance in nutrition. - Food Safety Fundamentals:
Understand food handling regulations, hygiene practices, contamination prevention, and South African food compliance standards. - Housekeeping in a Food Production Environment:
Learn the value of cleanliness and organization in maintaining a safe and productive workspace. - CIP and COP Procedures:
Gain hands-on experience with Cleaning-In-Place (CIP) and Cleaning-Out-of-Place (COP) — two vital processes for ensuring hygiene and sanitization in dairy production facilities. - Additional Modules:
You will also engage with supporting training that enhances your workplace readiness, such as teamwork, communication, and workplace ethics.
Who Should Apply?
- Age: Between 18 and 29 years old
- Citizenship: South African citizen
- Education: Completed Grade 12 (Matric)
- Employment Status: Must be currently unemployed
- Experience: No previous work experience is required
- Passionate about working in a technical and food processing environment
- Curious and eager to learn new skills
- Willing to commit to a 12-month structured programme
- Comfortable working in a team and following food safety regulations
How to Apply for the 2025 Woodlands Dairy Learnership
- Visit the Woodlands Dairy Careers Portal:
Navigate to the official Woodlands Dairy website. - Complete the Application Form:
Fill out all required fields accurately. - Upload the Required Documents:
- Certified copy of your Grade 12 certificate
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Updated CV
- Submit Your Application Online before the closing date: 31 July 2025.
Apply here for woodlands dairy learnership
Benefits of Joining the Woodlands Dairy Learnership Programme
No Work Experience Required
This programme is designed to open doors for those who are just starting out, making it a rare opportunity to gain valuable experience without prior employment.
Earn While You Learn
Although the learnership is part-time, a stipend is typically provided to cover basic costs during the 12-month period.
Improve Employability
Completing a structured, industry-recognized learnership in the FMCG sector significantly improves your CV and employability.
Gain Practical Experience in a Leading Company
Woodlands Dairy is one of South Africa’s top dairy brands. Learning in their facilities means learning from the best.
Fast-Track to Career Growth in FMCG
This training can serve as a stepping stone to permanent roles within food production, manufacturing, or quality assurance departments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need any prior work experience?
A: No, the programme is specifically targeted at unemployed youth with no previous employment background.
Q: Will I get a certificate after the learnership?
A: Yes, learners who successfully complete the programme will receive a qualification aligned with industry standards.
Q: Is accommodation or transport provided?
A: This is not specified, so applicants should be able to travel to and from the Woodlands Dairy facility in Humansdorp.
Q: Will I be offered a job after completing the learnership?
A: While employment is not guaranteed, successful learners often stand a strong chance of being considered for future opportunities within the company.
Don’t miss your chance to gain a competitive edge in the job market and become part of one of South Africa’s leading dairy producers. Submit your application by 31 July 2025, and take the first step toward a future in food manufacturing.
