Begin Your Culinary Journey: Maslow Hotel Learnership Programme 2025/2026
Where Passion Meets Opportunity in the Heart of Sandton
In the bustling heart of Sandton, Johannesburg’s glittering economic hub, an extraordinary opportunity is simmering to life. The Hotel Learnership Programme—an establishment known for luxury, excellence, and its commitment to uplifting South African youth—is offering a Professional Cookery Learnership Programme for the 2025/2026 intake.
For young South Africans with a love for cooking and a hunger for growth, this isn’t just a programme—it’s a stepping stone to a future career in hospitality.
A Hotel with a Heart for Development
The Maslow Hotel Sandton isn’t only about fine dining and first-class accommodation. It’s also deeply invested in developing young local talent. In line with national transformation goals and hospitality industry needs, the hotel is providing a platform for unemployed youth to gain real-world skills and a recognized qualification—at no cost to them.
This is more than a job. It’s a learnership—a blend of practical work and structured academic learning—designed to prepare participants for long-term employment in the culinary arts.
What Is a Learnership and Why Does It Matter?
If you’re unfamiliar with the term, a learnership is a structured learning programme that combines classroom education with on-the-job training. Participants work in a real business environment while studying toward a nationally recognized qualification.
This Professional Cookery Learnership offered by The Maslow Hotel is outcome-based, meaning every module is focused on helping you build the skills the industry actually needs.
- Duration: 12 months
- Location: The Maslow Hotel, Sandton
- Focus Area: Professional Cookery
- Qualification Level: Equivalent to NQF Level Certificate
The programme is formally recognized and is underpinned by a legally binding agreement signed between the learner, employer, and training provider. Upon successful completion, learners receive a national qualification, enhancing their employability in the hospitality sector.
Who Should Apply? The Ideal Candidate Profile
If you’re someone who dreams of a career in the kitchen, who’s inspired by the idea of plating up joy, and who’s ready to work hard for a brighter future—this could be for you.
Minimum Requirements:
- South African citizen
- Grade 12 / Matric certificate (or equivalent NQF Level 4)
- A motivational letter explaining why you are the right candidate
- An updated curriculum vitae (CV)
While not mandatory, possessing a certificate in hospitality or culinary arts will give you a competitive edge during the selection process.
Preferred Qualities:
- A passion for cooking and the culinary world
- Strong interpersonal skills and a positive attitude
- Proactive thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Good command of spoken and written English
- Willingness to work shifts, including weekends and holidays
Importantly, candidates living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. The programme is inclusive and aligned with diversity and empowerment values.
What to Expect During the Learnership
1. Theory-Based Training
Your journey begins in a classroom setting, where you’ll learn everything from kitchen safety to culinary terminology. Courses may cover:
- Basic food preparation
- Menu planning
- Hygiene and safety practices
- Stock control and kitchen management
This academic grounding provides the knowledge you’ll later apply in a real kitchen environment.
2. Workplace Practical Learning
The majority of your learning will take place in The Maslow Hotel’s bustling kitchen. Here, you’ll gain:
- Hands-on cooking experience
- Exposure to fine dining preparation
- Real-time feedback from industry professionals
- An understanding of how a commercial kitchen operates
You’ll rotate across stations and roles to ensure a well-rounded experience—soups, salads, grill, pastry, and more.
Why Choose a Culinary Career?
The culinary industry is dynamic, creative, and constantly evolving. With tourism and hospitality steadily rebounding post-pandemic, skilled chefs are in high demand across South Africa and globally.
By completing this learnership, you could launch a career in roles such as:
- Commis Chef
- Pastry Assistant
- Kitchen Supervisor
- Catering Assistant
- Chef de Partie (with experience)
Many hospitality professionals trace their roots back to programmes just like this one.
A Day in the Life of a Learner at The Maslow
Imagine waking up in Johannesburg and heading into a kitchen where you’ll be taught by chefs with years of experience. Your uniform is crisp, your knives sharp, and your energy high.
You begin the day preparing mise en place for the lunch service. The scent of spices fills the air. You’re guided in plating dishes for real guests, learning how to balance flavor and texture, how to lead under pressure, and how to work as part of a professional brigade.
After a debrief with the chef, you head into a training session where you’ll discuss menu costing or nutrition. You leave tired but inspired—knowing that you’re building a career with every shift.
How This Learnership Opens Doors
The combination of experience and a qualification gained from this programme can open many doors:
- Entry into permanent employment in hotels, lodges, and restaurants
- A stepping stone to further culinary studies
- A foundation for starting your own catering business one day
Many previous learners have gone on to work in top restaurants or even start small food ventures in their communities.
Application Process: How to Apply
The application process is simple but competitive, so be sure to take your time and present yourself professionally.
Documents Needed:
- Certified South African ID copy
- Matric certificate or equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) with current contact details
- FILL APPLICATION FORM
- Motivational letter explaining:
- Why you want to become a professional chef
- Why you’re applying to The Maslow Hotel
- What your future aspirations are
Company : Sun International
Location : Sandton, South Africa
If you have any hospitality or cooking certificates, be sure to include them as they can strengthen your application.
Submission Details
All application submissions must be completed before the closing date (to be announced). Check The Maslow Hotel or the Sun International careers website for the most accurate and current submission platform and timeline.
Pro Tip: Tailor your motivational letter to reflect your genuine passion and long-term goals. Let your personality shine through.
A Final Word: Why This Matters
South Africa is filled with passionate, talented youth who simply need the right door to open. This learnership is that door—backed by a respected name in hospitality and designed to uplift and empower.
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to start your culinary career, this is it. The Maslow Hotel is not just looking for learners. They’re looking for future chefs, leaders, and ambassadors of local flavor and global excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a salary or stipend?
Yes, most learnerships offer a stipend to cover basic travel or living expenses. Confirm details during the application phase.
Do I need previous kitchen experience?
No prior experience is required, but passion and willingness to learn are essential.
Can I apply if I live outside Gauteng?
Yes, but consider accommodation and transport, as the programme is based in Sandton.
Is the qualification accredited?
Yes, the learnership leads to a recognized national qualification, aligned with the NQF.
Take the First Step
Ready to pursue your passion and cook up a new future? Then don’t wait.
Whether you dream of working in luxury hotels, running your own catering service, or creating fusion dishes that celebrate our diverse South African heritage—this is your moment.
Apply now for the Maslow Hotel Professional Cookery Learnership Programme 2025/2026.
