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2025 Occupational Skills Learning Programme, in partnership with FoodBev SETA, is offering an Assistant Baker Skills Programme starting October 2025. Apply by 22 September and gain hands-on baking skills for employment or self-employment.
Rise with Opportunity: The 2025 Occupational Skills Learning Programme
In South Africa, where unemployment continues to be a challenge, learning a practical skill can make all the difference. Baking, often seen as a simple everyday activity, has grown into a powerful life skill with the potential to unlock employment, entrepreneurship, and even international opportunities.
Ekurhuleni West TVET College, in collaboration with FoodBev SETA, is addressing this need by offering a Skills Programme in Assistant Baking: Fermented Dough. This opportunity begins on 1 October 2025 and is tailored to empower individuals with the technical and hands-on expertise required to produce quality bakery products.
With a clear focus on employment readiness and self-sufficiency, this initiative highlights how education and training can bridge the gap between limited opportunities and sustainable careers.
What is the Assistant Baker: Fermented Dough Skills Programme?
The programme, coded SP-191206 and carrying 36 credits, equips learners with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in baking. Specifically, it emphasizes the preparation of fermented dough products, which include staples like bread, rolls, and other yeast-based baked goods that are always in demand across households and businesses.
The NQF Level 2 recognition ensures that learners’ skills are formally acknowledged, opening pathways to further training or direct employment.
Why Choose Baking as a Career Path?
Baking is more than a hobby—it’s a growing industry in South Africa and globally. Here’s why this programme matters:
- High Employability: Every community has bakeries, supermarkets, restaurants, and catering businesses that need skilled bakers.
- Entrepreneurial Opportunities: With just a small oven and basic equipment, trained individuals can start micro-enterprises and generate income.
- Transferable Skills: Baking teaches time management, precision, teamwork, and problem-solving—skills valued in many industries.
- Sustainability: Food is a necessity, and trained bakers contribute to food security while earning a living.
By training as an assistant baker, learners secure a foundation in an industry that consistently demands talent.
Skills You Will Gain
Upon successful completion of the programme, learners will be able to:
Useful Links:
- Youth Opportunities
- Online courses
- Learnerships Programme
- Skills Training Programme
- Funding Bursaries
- Produce Fermented Dough Products: Master the techniques of creating bread, rolls, and other yeast-based goods.
- Operate Bakery Machinery and Equipment: Gain hands-on experience with mixers, ovens, and other essential tools of the trade.
- Monitor Quality Conformance: Learn how to maintain product standards and meet customer expectations.
- Comply with Health, Safety, and Environmental Requirements: Understand bakery safety standards and food handling practices critical for any professional kitchen.
These skills are practical, marketable, and aligned with South Africa’s food and beverage industry standards.
Admission Requirements
The programme is designed to be inclusive, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants. Minimum requirements include:
- Education: Grade 9 or NQF Level 1 qualification.
- Interview: A successful interview process to confirm motivation and suitability.
This makes the opportunity open to school leavers, unemployed youth, and individuals looking to upskill for better employment opportunities.
Programme Details at a Glance
- Start Date: 1 October 2025
- Duration: Approximately 3 months (full-time commitment)
- Qualification: Recognized at NQF Level 2
- Cost: No payment required – the programme is fully funded, making it accessible to all qualifying learners
- Delivery: Practical and classroom-based learning at Ekurhuleni West TVET College
Application Process
To ensure fairness and accessibility, the college requires hand-delivered applications.
Step 1: Prepare Documentation
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Copy of your highest school qualification (Grade 9 or above)
- Any additional supporting documents (e.g., short course certificates, recommendation letters)
Step 2: Deliver Application
Applications must be hand-delivered to:
Ekurhuleni West TVET College Corporate Centre (Security Gate)
Corner of Flag and Rose Innes Street, Driehoek, Germiston, 1400
Step 3: Observe the Deadline
Applications close on 22 September 2025 at 16:00. Late submissions will not be considered.
Step 4: Follow Up
For enquiries, contact the Partnership and Linkages Division at 011 323 1600.
Why This Programme Stands Out
- Zero Tuition Fees: The college does not charge learners for training, making it accessible to disadvantaged groups.
- Short Duration with High Impact: In just 3 months, learners gain employable skills and a recognized qualification.
- Hands-On Training: The programme emphasizes practical skills rather than purely academic theory.
- Employment and Self-Employment Pathways: Graduates can pursue jobs in bakeries or start their own micro-baking businesses.
Broader Impact: Education and Skills for a Stronger South Africa
South Africa’s economy faces significant challenges, with unemployment rates affecting both youth and adults. Programmes like this one serve a dual purpose:
- Empowering Individuals: By teaching life skills, individuals gain confidence, independence, and the ability to support themselves.
- Supporting Communities: Local bakeries and food businesses benefit from a pipeline of skilled workers.
- Boosting the Economy: Training initiatives aligned with SETA’s goals address skills shortages and stimulate entrepreneurship.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Be Prepared for the Interview: Highlight your motivation, willingness to learn, and interest in baking.
- Show Enthusiasm: Even without prior baking experience, passion and determination can set you apart.
- Submit Early: Avoid last-minute challenges by applying before the closing date.
- Follow Up Professionally: If you haven’t heard back, contact the Partnerships and Linkages Division politely for updates.
Career Opportunities After Completion
Graduates of this programme can explore multiple pathways:
- Employment in Bakeries: Supermarkets, retail chains, and independent bakeries are always seeking skilled assistants.
- Catering and Hospitality: Hotels, restaurants, and catering businesses require skilled bakers for fresh bread and pastry production.
- Entrepreneurship: Start a home-based bakery, supply local shops, or sell at markets.
- Further Education: Use your NQF Level 2 qualification as a stepping stone to higher-level culinary or hospitality courses.
Inspiring Possibilities
Imagine completing the programme and starting your own small bakery in Germiston, supplying fresh bread to your community. Or picture yourself working in a large-scale bakery operation that provides products to retailers nationwide. The skills gained here don’t just provide income—they create pride, independence, and the chance to uplift others.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss This Opportunity
The Occupational Skills Learning Programme 2025 at Ekurhuleni West TVET College, supported by FoodBev SETA, is more than a training initiative. It is a chance to gain practical, employable skills in baking—skills that open doors to jobs, entrepreneurship, and lifelong opportunities.
With the programme commencing on 1 October 2025 and applications closing on 22 September 2025, aspiring bakers are encouraged to act quickly. Hand-deliver your application to the college and take the first step toward a future where you can rise—both in the bakery and in life.
This is your opportunity to turn passion into profession. Don’t let it pass by.
