Mining companies in South Africa offer learnership programmes to help young people enter the industry.
These programmes provide technical training, workplace experience, and nationally recognised qualifications.
One of the largest mining companies offering these opportunities is Anglo American.
Anglo American operates the Sishen Mine near Kathu in the Northern Cape through its Kumba Iron Ore division.
The company regularly offers learnership programmes that prepare young South Africans for careers in mining, engineering, and plant operations.
About Anglo American Learnerships in Kathu
Anglo American learnerships in Kathu are usually offered through the company’s Kumba Iron Ore operations at Sishen Mine.
The programmes combine theoretical training with hands on workplace experience.
Most mining learnership programmes run for about 18 months, while engineering trade programmes may run for 36 to 39 months depending on the trade qualification.
Learners gain practical experience in mining operations and equipment use.
Training includes safety procedures, mining methods, and teamwork in an industrial environment.
Participants normally receive a monthly stipend during the programme.
Learners may also receive protective equipment and formal technical training.
Successful participants may obtain an MQA recognised certificate or artisan trade qualification after completing the programme.
Learnership opportunities are usually published on the official Anglo American careers portal.
Anglo American Learnership Requirements
Applicants must meet several requirements before applying for a learnership at Anglo American in Kathu.
The requirements may vary depending on the specific programme or trade field.
The most common requirements include the following.
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- You must have a Grade 12 certificate or N3 technical qualification.
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy must be included in your subjects.
- Physical Science is often advantageous for technical programmes.
- You must be unemployed and not studying full time.
- A valid South African driver’s licence may be required or preferred.
- Applicants must be medically fit to work in a mining environment.
- Some programmes require N2 qualifications for engineering trades.
Preference is often given to candidates living in communities near the mine such as the John Taolo Gaetsewe District in the Northern Cape.
Anglo American also applies Employment Equity policies when selecting candidates.
Learnership Fields and Trades
Anglo American learnerships at Sishen Mine cover several technical and mining fields.
These programmes are designed to develop skilled workers for the mining industry.
Common learnership trades include the following.
- Electrical.
- Millwright.
- Diesel Mechanic.
- Fitter.
- Auto Electrician.
- Boilermaker or Plater Welder.
- Rigger.
Some programmes also focus on surface mining operations and mobile equipment training.
Learners may gain experience in drilling, blasting support roles, and equipment operation.
These skills prepare learners for long term employment in mining and engineering.
Required Documents for Anglo American Learnerships
Applicants must submit supporting documents when applying for an Anglo American learnership.
These documents help verify qualifications and personal details. Typical documents required include the following.
- Updated CV with contact details.
- Certified copy of your South African ID document.
- Certified copy of your Grade 12 certificate or N qualification.
- Certified copy of your driver’s licence if applicable.
- Proof of residential address.
Ensure that all documents are certified and clearly scanned before uploading them.
How to Apply for Anglo American Learnerships
Applications must be submitted online through the official Anglo American recruitment portal.
Follow these steps to apply.
- Visit the Anglo American careers website.
- Search for learnership or apprentice opportunities in Kathu or Sishen Mine.
- Open the learnership listing and read the requirements carefully.
- Create a profile on the recruitment system.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload your certified documents.
- Submit the application before the closing date.
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to complete assessments, interviews, and medical fitness tests before final selection.
Anglo American Learnership Closing Dates
The closing dates depend on the programme and operational needs.
For example, some recent learnership opportunities at Kathu closed in December 2024 or October 2025.
New opportunities may open at different times during the year.
How to Contact Anglo American
Applicants who need more information can contact Anglo American through:
- Website: https://www.angloamerican.com/site-services/contact-us
- South Africa General Inquiries: +27 11 638 9111