Learner Fire Fighter Learnership – Bergrivier Municipality (Western Cape) 2026 – Complete Guide

Eligibility – Minimum Requirements

To apply for the Learner Fire Fighter Learnership 2026, candidates must meet the following:

Educational Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent.

Licensing

• Valid Code C1 driving licence.

Fitness & Medical

• Pass the Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT).

• Pass a medical fitness assessment in accordance with NFPA 1582 standards.

• Candidates must not have specific phobias related to confined spaces, heights, water, darkness, blood, isolation or corpses.

• Physically and mentally fit for firefighting duties.

Language Proficiency

• Able to speak, read and write in at least two official languages common to the Western Cape (e.g., Afrikaans, English, isiXhosa).

Additional Criteria

• Willing to work shifts and overtime.

• Must have no criminal record.

• Be able to work at any fire station within the Bergrivier Municipal area as required.

What You’ll Learn & Do

During the learnership, you will:

Fire & Rescue Operations

• Respond to fires and emergencies under supervision.

• Render basic emergency medical support.

• Participate in fire prevention and public education campaigns.

Equipment & Maintenance

• Inspect and maintain firefighting vehicles and tools.

• Ensure fire station safety and hygiene.

Administrative Tasks

• Assist with basic reporting and record-keeping.

Required Documents (Checklist)

Prepare certified copies of the following with your application:

✔ Completed prescribed application form (available from municipal offices or website)
✔ Certified copy of ID document
✔ Certified copy of Grade 12 certificate
✔ Certified copy of Code C1 driving licence
✔ Covering letter with at least two contactable references
✔ CV (maximum 3 pages)

How to Apply – Step-by-Step

1. Obtain the application form from the Bergrivier Municipality website or municipal offices.

2. Complete the form and prepare documents.

3. Submit your application by hand, post or courier (no email or fax).

Where to submit:

• Hand deliver to municipal offices in Aurora, Eendekuil, Redelinghuys, Piketberg, Porterville or Velddrif.

• Post to: Bergrivier Municipality, P.O. Box 60, Piketberg, 7320.

• Courier to: 13 Church Street, Piketberg, 7320 (Attention: Mr. DF Verhoog).

🛑 Reminder: Late or incomplete applications will be disqualified.

Salary & Benefits

• Annual salary: Approximately R145 440.00 per year (Grade T05 – Category 3 Local Authority).

• Learnership may include standard municipal benefits and a possible service bonus.

While this is an entry-level position, the learnership equips you for future paid roles within municipal fire and rescue services.

Career Path After Completion

Completing this learnership can lead to longer-term roles such as:

• Qualified Fire Fighter

• Senior Fire Fighter

• Fire Safety Officer

• Station Officer

• Emergency Services Manager

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is this a paid learnership?

Yes — learners receive an annual salary (approx. R145 440) while training.

2. Do I need fire experience?

No prior firefighting experience is required — but you must be physically fit and pass required tests.

3. Can I email my application?

No — the municipality does not accept email or fax. Only hand, courier or posted applications are valid.

4. Can non-Bergrivier residents apply?

Priority is given to applicants within the Bergrivier Municipal area (WC013). Applicants outside this area may not be considered.

5. What happens after I apply?

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for physical assessments, interviews, and evaluations. Lack of feedback within six weeks usually means the application was unsuccessfu