The City of Cape Town has opened applications for the Metro Police and Traffic Services Learnership 2026, a prestigious opportunity for young South Africans passionate about serving their communities and building careers in law enforcement. This highly competitive programme equips learners with the knowledge, skills, and discipline needed to uphold law and order, ensure road safety, and promote community policing across Cape Town’s diverse communities.
🚔 About the City of Cape Town Learnership Programme
The City of Cape Town Metro Police and Traffic Learnership is an annual initiative that aims to develop qualified, skilled, and ethical officers ready to serve the city’s residents. Through structured classroom training and practical exposure, participants gain a solid foundation in traffic control, crime prevention, and community engagement.
This learnership is accredited by relevant Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) and offers learners the opportunity to earn a National Certificate in Law Enforcement (NQF Level 4) upon successful completion.
The programme also focuses on developing a sense of professionalism, responsibility, and integrity—key qualities required for anyone seeking a long-term career in policing or traffic management.
🏙️ Objectives of the Programme
The main objectives of the Metro Police and Traffic Learnership include:
- Providing structured training to young, unemployed South Africans.
- Equipping learners with law enforcement and traffic management skills.
- Promoting road safety and compliance with the National Road Traffic Act.
- Supporting community policing initiatives and crime prevention strategies.
- Creating a pipeline of qualified officers for future employment within the City of Cape Town’s Safety and Security Directorate.
This initiative aligns with the city’s broader vision of creating a safe, inclusive, and well-governed metropolitan area that values youth empowerment and professional development.
🎓 Learnership Structure
The City of Cape Town Metro Police and Traffic Learnership runs for 18 to 24 months, combining both academic instruction and real-world practical training.
Learners receive intensive classroom training covering:
- Road Traffic Management
- Law Enforcement Procedures
- Crime Prevention Techniques
- Street Patrol and Public Safety Operations
- Firearm Handling and Safety (as per SAPS standards)
- Legal Frameworks and Constitutional Rights
- Communication and Report Writing
- Ethics and Code of Conduct in Law Enforcement
Following theoretical modules, learners are placed at various operational units within the City’s Metro Police and Traffic departments, where they gain practical experience in patrolling, crowd control, issuing fines, and assisting with law enforcement duties under supervision.
👮♀️ Who Can Apply?
The 2026 learnership is open to unemployed South African youth who meet the following minimum requirements:
Minimum Requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen and reside within the Cape Town Metropolitan area.
- Must have completed Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent qualification.
- Must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Must have no criminal record (background checks will be conducted).
- Must be physically and mentally fit to perform law enforcement duties.
- Must possess a valid Code B (manual) driver’s license or be in the process of obtaining one.
- Be willing to undergo training, shift work, and weekend duties.
Additional Advantage:
- Previous exposure to community safety programmes or volunteering experience.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills.
- Problem-solving ability and commitment to teamwork.
💼 What Learners Gain
By joining the City of Cape Town Metro Police and Traffic Learnership, participants receive:
- Comprehensive training accredited by SASSETA.
- A monthly stipend during the training period.
- Professional mentorship from experienced law enforcement officers.
- Exposure to advanced traffic management systems and policing technology.
- The opportunity to contribute to real community safety initiatives.
- A recognized National Certificate in Law Enforcement (NQF Level 4) after completion.
Upon successful completion, learners may be considered for future employment within the City of Cape Town’s Metro Police or Traffic Services—depending on available vacancies and performance during the programme.
📅 Application and Closing Date
Applications for the City of Cape Town Metro Police and Traffic Learnership 2026 are typically announced between October and December 2025, with the programme expected to start early in 2026.
All applications must be submitted through the official City of Cape Town career portal:
🔗 https://www.capetown.gov.za/careers
When the advertisement opens, candidates will be required to submit:
- A detailed CV.
- Certified copies of ID and Matric certificate.
- Proof of residence within the City of Cape Town.
- Copy of driver’s license (if applicable).
Important:
Incomplete applications or late submissions will not be considered. Shortlisted candidates will undergo a fitness test, psychometric assessment, and background verification before final selection.
📧 Application Guidelines
Applicants are encouraged to check the official website or local newspapers for the latest vacancy announcements. When the advert is published, follow the provided instructions carefully.
In some instances, applications may be accepted via email or physical submission. A sample email format could be:
Subject: Application for City of Cape Town Metro Police and Traffic Learnership 2026
Email example: hr.recruitment@capetown.gov.za (Check the official advert for the correct address.)
Attach your certified documents and a brief motivation letter explaining why you are passionate about community safety and how you can contribute to the City’s vision.
💡 Tips for a Successful Application
- Prepare all documents early – certification should be recent (not older than 3 months).
- Stay physically active – applicants must pass fitness and medical tests.
- Avoid any criminal activities – background checks are mandatory.
- Show community involvement – highlight any volunteering or public service.
- Write a strong motivation letter – express your dedication and willingness to learn.
🌟 Why Choose the City of Cape Town Learnership?
This learnership is not just a training opportunity—it’s a career gateway into South Africa’s growing law enforcement and traffic management sector. The City of Cape Town is one of the country’s most advanced municipalities, offering top-tier resources, professional mentors, and excellent career prospects for those who perform well.
Graduates of this programme often go on to secure positions such as:
- Metro Police Constable
- Traffic Officer
- Law Enforcement Officer
- Community Safety Ambassador
Through continuous training, personal development, and community service, the City ensures its officers are among the most capable and ethical in the country.
✅ Conclusion
The City of Cape Town Metro Police and Traffic Learnership 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity for dedicated young individuals who aspire to protect and serve their communities. This structured and accredited programme blends education, discipline, and real-world policing experience to prepare learners for meaningful roles in public safety.
If you are driven by integrity, justice, and a passion for community service, this learnership could be the first step toward an exciting and impactful career in law enforcement.
EMAIL APPLICATION
hr.recruitment@capetown.gov.za