Learn how to apply for the Plant Production Learnership National Certificate NQF 3 in South Africa. Requirements, stipend info, careers, and PERITUM Agri Institute application steps explained.
Plant Production Learnership (National Certificate NQF 3)
Agriculture remains one of South Africa’s most important industries, creating thousands of jobs while supporting food security and rural development. If you are looking for a practical qualification that helps you enter farming, crop production, or agribusiness, the Plant Production Learnership (National Certificate NQF 3) is one of the best entry points available.
This nationally recognised programme combines classroom learning with real workplace experience, allowing learners to gain skills that employers in the agricultural sector actively need. Whether you want to work on commercial farms, agri-processing companies, nurseries, or start your own small farming business, this qualification gives you the right foundation.
In this detailed guide, CareersFocus explains everything you need to know about the Plant Production Learnership, including requirements, benefits, career opportunities, and how to apply through institutions such as PERITUM Agri Institute.
What is the Plant Production Learnership?
The Plant Production Learnership is a structured training programme that leads to a National Certificate: Plant Production (NQF Level 3) registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and aligned with AgriSETA standards.
A learnership combines:
- Theoretical agricultural training
- Practical workplace experience
- Mentorship from industry professionals
- A recognised national qualification
Unlike traditional courses, you don’t only study — you also work and earn practical skills on farms or agricultural facilities.
This approach improves employability because employers prefer candidates who already understand real-world farming operations.
Why Choose the National Certificate NQF 3 in Plant Production?
South Africa’s agriculture sector is growing steadily due to increasing demand for:
- Food production
- Sustainable farming
- Agri-processing
- Export crops
- Greenhouse and nursery operations
The National Certificate NQF 3 prepares learners to work confidently in these environments.
Key advantages include:
1. Accredited Qualification
You receive a nationally recognised certificate that is respected by employers across South Africa.
2. Practical Skills
You learn by doing — planting, irrigating, harvesting, and managing crops.
3. Employability
Many learners secure permanent jobs after completing their learnerships.
4. Earn While You Learn
Some programmes provide monthly stipends.
5. Career Growth
You can progress to NQF Level 4 or specialised agricultural studies.
What You Will Learn (Core Modules)
The Plant Production Learnership focuses on modern agricultural practices and farm management.
Typical modules include:
- Soil preparation and fertilisation
- Irrigation systems and water management
- Crop establishment and propagation
- Pest and disease control
- Safe use of agricultural chemicals
- Farm equipment handling
- Harvesting and post-harvest practices
- Workplace safety and health
- Basic business and farm administration
These skills prepare learners for both small-scale and commercial farming environments.
Entry Requirements
While requirements may vary by training provider, most institutions ask for:
- Grade 10, 11, or 12 (Matric preferred)
- Basic English communication skills
- Interest in agriculture or farming
- Willingness to work outdoors
- South African ID
- Age between 18 and 35 (varies by programme)
- Unemployed youth are often prioritised
No prior farming experience is required — the programme is designed for beginners.
Duration of the Learnership
The Plant Production Learnership (NQF 3) usually runs for:
12 months
This includes:
- Classroom sessions
- Practical workplace training
- Portfolio of Evidence (POE)
- Final assessments
After successful completion, learners receive the National Certificate.
Career Opportunities After Completion
This qualification opens doors to various agriculture-related careers.
You may work as a:
- Crop production assistant
- Farm worker or supervisor
- Irrigation assistant
- Nursery worker
- Greenhouse technician
- Agricultural production operator
- Packhouse assistant
- Small-scale farmer or entrepreneur
With experience, you can move into supervisory or management roles.
Many graduates also start their own farming projects, vegetable gardens, or agri-businesses.
Where Can You Study? (PERITUM Agri Institute & Others)
Several accredited providers offer the Plant Production Learnership.
PERITUM Agri Institute
PERITUM Agri Institute is a respected agricultural training provider in South Africa known for:
- Accredited AgriSETA programmes
- Industry-based practical training
- Experienced facilitators
- Workplace placement opportunities
They regularly offer Plant Production Learnerships to unemployed youth and farm workers.
Other Options
You can also check:
- AgriSETA-accredited colleges
- Agricultural training centres
- Farming co-operatives
- Private training providers
- Employer-sponsored learnerships
Always verify that the provider is accredited.
How to Apply for the Plant Production Learnership
Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Have the following ready:
- Certified copy of ID
- CV
- School qualifications
- Proof of residence
- Contact details
Step 2: Find Accredited Providers
Search for:
- PERITUM Agri Institute website
- AgriSETA learnership listings
- Agricultural colleges
- CareersFocus.co.za learnership updates
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Apply:
- Online
- Via email
- Or in person (depending on the provider)
Step 4: Attend Interviews or Assessments
Shortlisted applicants may complete interviews or basic assessments.
Step 5: Start Training
Successful candidates sign a learnership agreement and begin training.
Skills Employers Look For
To succeed in plant production, develop:
- Physical fitness
- Teamwork
- Attention to detail
- Time management
- Responsibility
- Passion for agriculture
Employers value reliability and willingness to learn.
Why This Learnership Matters for South Africa
The Plant Production Learnership plays an important role in:
- Fighting youth unemployment
- Developing rural communities
- Supporting food security
- Growing local agriculture
- Creating small business owners
By training skilled workers, the programme strengthens South Africa’s agricultural economy.
For many young people, it provides a life-changing pathway into stable employment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Plant Production Learnership free?
Yes. Most programmes are fully funded through AgriSETA or employers.
Do learners receive a stipend?
Some providers offer monthly stipends.
Can I study further after NQF 3?
Yes. You can progress to NQF 4 or specialised agricultural courses.
Is this qualification recognised nationwide?
Yes. It is nationally accredited and recognised across South Africa.
Can I apply without Matric?
Yes. Many providers accept Grade 10 or 11.
Expert Tip from CareersFocus
Based on our experience covering learnerships across South Africa, applicants who apply early, submit complete documents, and follow up with providers have higher success rates.
Check trusted sources regularly and avoid scams. Only apply through accredited institutions.
CareersFocus.co.za Disclaimer
CareersFocus.co.za shares educational and career information to help job seekers and students. We are not a training provider or recruitment agency. Always confirm application details directly with official institutions such as PERITUM Agri Institute or AgriSETA before applying.
Final Thoughts
The Plant Production Learnership (National Certificate NQF 3) is more than just a qualification — it is a gateway into one of South Africa’s most essential industries. If you enjoy working outdoors, growing crops, and building a sustainable career, this programme offers real skills, real experience, and real job opportunities.
With agriculture continuing to expand, now is the perfect time to apply and secure your future in plant production.
Stay updated with the latest learnership opportunities on CareersFocus.co.za and take your first step toward a rewarding agricultural career today.
Karabo Ntswaki – Author of CareersFocus.co.za
Karabo Ntswaki is passionate about empowering South Africans with reliable, verified, and easily accessible information about careers and education. Through CareersFocus.co.za, Karabo’s mission is to support students, job seekers, and young professionals by providing accurate guidance on learnerships, internships, bursaries, scholarships, and educational resources.
Her vision is to make CareersFocus.co.za the most trusted online source in South Africa for career and educational information, helping individuals overcome barriers, make informed decisions, and achieve their personal and professional goals.
you can contact me at info@careersfocus.co.za or our website https://careersfocus.co.za/