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Introduction of FNB Learnership

If you are an unemployed young person in South Africa looking to gain real workplace exposure, build your skills, and kick‑start your career, then the First National Bank FNB Learnership Programme for Unemployed Youth 2025/2026 is an excellent opportunity. This article will walk you through what the learnership is, who can apply, what you’ll do, what you’ll gain, how to apply, and tips to help you stand out. It is written in a positive, engaging tone, using clear sentences and transition words, so you can understand exactly how to proceed.

What is the FNB Learnership Programme?

The FNB Learnership Programme is a structured development initiative offered by FNB to unemployed South African youth. It combines formal learning (a registered qualification) with hands‑on workplace experience. It is aimed at youth who want to develop skills in banking, business operations, customer service or administration. According to the source, FNB is one of South Africa’s “Big Five” banks and part of the FirstRand Group.

In practical terms, the programme allows you to:

Complete a formal, registered qualification in a banking or business‑related field.
Gain on‑the‑job experience in FNB branches or business units—supporting tasks such as customer service, administration, operations, research and process improvement.
Learn how to deliver high‑quality service, follow company processes, collaborate with a team, and grow personally and professionally.

Because it bridges formal learning and practical exposure, this learnership is not only about getting your foot in the door—it is about building a foundation for future career opportunities.

Why This FNB Programme Matters

For unemployed youth in South Africa, opportunities to gain both qualification and workplace experience are rare. Many job‑seekers struggle because they have no experience; in turn, employers expect experience. The FNB Learnership addresses that gap.

Firstly, the programme is with a well‑known, reputable organisation—FNB is recognised for innovation, customer‑centric services and youth employment support.

Secondly, the mix of formal qualification + work experience means you emerge more employable. Whether you aim for a full‑time role with FNB or another employer, you gain relevant skills, a credential and exposure to real work.

Thirdly, for youth (including recent school leavers and those who have not yet found work), this kind of learnership can help you build your confidence, professional attitude, communication skills and teamwork mindset—things that employers value across South Africa, the UK, USA and Canada.

Finally, because the programme is designed for unemployed youth and experience is not a strict requirement (“yes—this programme is aimed at unemployed youth with no experience”).

Therefore, if you meet the requirements and are motivated, this is a strong stepping stone.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility)

To apply for the FNB Learnership Programme, you need to meet certain criteria. These criteria help determine whether you are eligible. According to the source:

Required criteria:

You must be a South African citizen.
Must currently be unemployed.
You should have an interest or passion in banking, finance, customer service or administration.
You should be willing to complete a registered learnership qualification.
Must have good communication skills and ability to handle customers professionally.
You must be committed to personal growth, teamwork and being adaptable.

Important notes:

Experience is not required. The programme is aimed at youth even if they have never worked before.
Being currently unemployed is a requirement—this means the programme is designed for youth who are not in full‑time employment.
Because the programme is in South Africa and for South African citizens, if you are reading this from the UK, USA or Canada, you should note this refers specifically to the South African intake. However, if you are abroad but willing to relocate or return to SA, you may still consider this opportunity.
Although not always specified, you should assume you’ll need to have a Matric certificate (or equivalent) or the highest qualification you have attained. The source mentions uploading your Matric certificate or highest qualification.

What Will You Do in the FNB Learnership? (Role & Responsibilities)

Once you are selected, you will participate in a role that offers real responsibilities, mentorship and exposure to banking operations. Based on the source:

Key responsibilities:

Customer Service
- Engage with customers professionally and resolve basic complaints or queries.
- Communicate with customers according to set service standards.
- Provide product or service information where required.
Compliance & Quality
- Adhere to the principle of Treating Customers Fairly (TCF).
- Follow the company’s policies and standard operating procedures.
- Maintain accurate records and ensure quality checks are adhered to.
Operational Excellence
- Support business processes, workflows, and improvement efforts.
- Identify risks that may increase business costs and suggest ways to improve.
- Contribute to aligning systems and processes.
Teamwork & Collaboration
- Work as part of a team to meet joint objectives.
- Value diversity, share knowledge, respect your colleagues.
Personal Development
- Identify your own development needs and gaps.
- Create a personal development plan in consultation with your team leader.
- Strive for continuous improvement: “I get better and better.

Duration & Outcome:

The learnership typically runs for around 12 months, though this may vary depending on FNB’s specific offer.
Upon successful completion, you will receive a registered qualification aligned to the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) in South Africa.
Employment after the learnership is not guaranteed, but high‑performing learners may be absorbed if there are vacancies.

What You Will Gain – The Benefits on FNB Learnership

When you enrol in the FNB Learnership Programme, the benefits go beyond just a qualification. Here is what you can gain:

A formal qualification registered on the NQF (which is recognised and adds weight to your resume).
Real, hands‑on experience in a reputable financial‑services environment, which is a key differentiator in the job market.
Exposure to professional workplace culture: teamwork, customer service, compliance, operations, process improvement.
A stipend to support you while you study and work. According to the source, FNB offers a “market‑related learnership stipend to cover basic expenses.”
Increased employability: Having both a recognized qualification and work experience means you are better positioned to apply for jobs.
Personal growth: The learnership emphasises personal development, continuous improvement, communication, and professional behaviour.
Networking: You will meet colleagues, mentors, supervisors and may connect with others who work within the bank – this can open doors in the future.
A possibility (though not a guarantee) of full‑time employment with FNB if you perform well and if the organisation has vacancies.

From the perspective of unemployed youth this is a valuable package, because it addresses the dual challenge of “no experience – can’t get a job” and “no qualification – can’t get a job”.

How to Apply for the FNB Learnership – Step‑by‑Step Guide

Applying may feel like a big step, but if you follow each phase thoroughly, you will maximise your chance. The source lists the following steps.

Step 1: Visit the FNB Careers Portal

Go to the official FNB (FirstRand) careers website. This is the starting point for all applications.

Step 2: Search for “Learnership”

On the portal, use the search bar to type keywords such as “Learnership”, “Learner”, “FNB Learnership”. This will narrow the jobs to learnership roles.

Step 3: Select the Specific Learnership Opportunity

From the list of results pick the listing that corresponds to the learnership for unemployed youth (2025/2026 intake). Open the job post and read all the details: role, responsibilities, requirements, location, duration

Step 4: Create a Profile or Log In

If this is your first time applying on the portal, you will need to register and create an account. If you already have an account, simply log in.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

Prepare and upload the following documents:

Certified copy of your ID or ID number.
Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) listing your education, any relevant activities, extras, contact details.
Your Matric certificate or highest qualification attained.
Any supporting certificates (e.g., extra courses, workshops) if you have them.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

Ensure your profile is complete, your documents are uploaded and correct, and then click the “Apply” button on the job listing.

Step 7: Monitor Your Email

After submitting, check your email regularly. FNB will contact shortlisted candidates for assessments or interviews. Make sure you respond promptly if invited.

Bonus Tip: Save the Job Reference

Keep a copy of the job reference number or screenshot the application page so you can reference it later.

Application Timeline & Deadlines of FNB Learnership

While the source specifies the “2025/2026” intake, it notes that “Application Deadline Not specified (Apply ASAP)”. This means:

As soon as you see the advert for the learnership, apply without delay.
Job postings may close once a sufficient number of applications are received.
It is wise to keep checking the FNB careers portal for updates and new learnership adverts.
Set reminders or regularly check job‑listing sites or FNB’s careers page.
Prepare your documents ahead so you are ready when the application opens.

Tips to Improve Your Chances on FNB Learnership

Here are practical tips to make your application stronger and stand out:

Prepare a strong CV: Even though no experience is required, show any extra‑curricular activities, volunteer work, school leadership, part‑time work, or community involvement. Reflect your interest in customer service, banking or admin.
Write a tailored cover letter (if allowed): Explain why you are interested in banking and the FNB learnership. Mention your commitment to learning, strong communication skills, willingness to grow and work as a team.
Highlight relevant soft skills: The role emphasises customer service, compliance, operations, teamwork and personal development. Use examples (however small) of when you worked in a team, helped someone, took initiative, or dealt with challenges.
Show willingness to learn: Mention that you are eager to complete the qualification, develop your skills and adapt.
Professional online profile: Make sure your email is professional, your LinkedIn (if you have one) is updated, and avoid any unprofessional content on social media.
Prepare for interview or assessment: If shortlisted, you might be assessed on competency, attitude, problem‑solving or customer‑service scenarios. Practice common questions such as: “How would you deal with a difficult customer?”, “What does good customer service mean to you?”, “Tell us about a time when you worked in a team”.
Stay organised: Track the application, keep documents ready, set job alerts.
Be punctual and attentive: If you are invited to an interview or assessment, arrive early, dress appropriately (smart‑casual or business‑casual), bring required documents.
Follow up respectfully: After applying, you may send a short email thanking for the opportunity. If contacted, respond promptly.
Maintain motivation: Learnerships are competitive. If you are not selected this time, review your application, improve your CV, gain some extra experience (volunteer or part‑time) and re‑apply next cycle.

More Learnerships

What Happens After You Apply? for FNB Learnership

Once you have submitted your application, here’s what to expect:

Your application will be reviewed by FNB’s recruitment team. They will check whether you meet eligibility (citizen, unemployed, interest in banking/finance, communication skills).
If shortlisted, you may be invited to complete assessments, which could include: aptitude tests, customer‑service simulations, group exercises, or interviews.
If you pass the assessments, you may be placed for the learnership. You will enter formal training plus practical work.
During the learnership, you will receive your qualification, complete work tasks, follow your personal development plan, and receive a stipend.
At the end of the programme (approximately 12 months), you will graduate. Depending on performance and available positions, you may be considered for full‑time employment with FNB.
Even if full‑time employment does not follow, you will leave with a qualification and experience—both are very valuable in South Africa and globally.

Why You Should Act Now (2026 Intake)

Because the intake is labelled 2025/2026, it means that this cycle is open for current application or imminent. To maximise your chances:

Get your CV ready now.
Prepare certified copies of your ID and Matric certificate/qualifications.
Regularly check FNB’s careers portal for learnership postings.
Apply early—many learnerships fill quickly.
Think about your personal story: Why banking? Why customer service? Why FNB? How will this help you grow?
Even if you are currently doing short courses or volunteering, include that. It strengthens your profile.
For those outside South Africa (UK, USA, Canada) interested in how learnerships work: learnerships are an excellent model of combining learning and workplace experience. You may take inspiration for your local region or network with youth employment programmes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some commonly asked questions about the FNB Learnership Programme:

Q1: Does FNB pay a stipend for this learnership?
Yes. FNB offers a market‑related learnership stipend to cover basic expenses.

Q2: Can I apply if I have never worked before?
Yes. This programme is aimed at unemployed youth with no experience.

Q3: What qualification will I receive?
You will receive a registered NQF‑aligned learnership qualification related to banking or business operations.

Q4: How long is the learnership?
Typically, it runs around 12 months, but this may vary depending on FNB’s specific offering.

Q5: Will I get a permanent job after the learnership?
Employment is not guaranteed. However, many learners are absorbed if vacancies exist and performance is strong.

Q6: What if I am outside South Africa?
This particular programme is for South African citizens only. If you are from the UK, USA or Canada you cannot apply for this South African intake unless you have South African citizenship or meet FNB’s specific criteria. However, you can still learn from the model of this programme and search for equivalent opportunities in your region.

Final Thoughts

The FNB Learnership Programme for Unemployed Youth 2025/2026 presents a strong opportunity for young South Africans who are ready to take control of their careers. It offers a combination of formal qualification, real work experience, professional development and the chance to join one of South Africa’s leading financial institutions.

If you are currently unemployed and motivated, prepare now. Gather your documents, sharpen your CV, practise your customer‑service mindset, and apply as soon as the job post opens. Remember, applying early and being prepared increases your chances considerably.

Even if you are in the UK, USA or Canada, looking at this from afar, this learnership model demonstrates how structured programmes can empower youth, build skills and create pathways into the workforce. You can look for comparable programmes in your country or region.

Act now. Your future career could begin with this learnership. If you have any questions—about the application process, how to prepare your CV, or alternative programmes—feel free to ask.

Wishing you every success as you embark on this next step.

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