Youth unemployment remains one of South Africa’s biggest challenges—but structured opportunities like the Clicks Youth Employment Service (YES) Programme 2026 are helping young people gain real workplace experience and accredited qualifications.
If you’re between 18 and 29 years old, have passed Matric, and are currently unemployed, this opportunity in the Western Cape could be your entry point into the retail and FMCG sector.
Programme Overview
Listing Reference: click_023785
Company: Clicks Group
Location: Western Cape
Industry: FMCG & Supply Management
Contract Type: Fixed-Term
EE Position: Yes
Closing Date: 23 February 2026
Qualification: NQF Level 2 Checkout Operator Occupational Qualification
What the YES Programme Offers
This is more than just a cashier role—it’s a structured occupational learning programme combining theory and practical experience.
1. Classroom Learning
Participants receive formal training in:
- Customer service principles
- Retail operations
- Basic merchandising
- Cash handling procedures
- Workplace communication and conduct
2. On-the-Job Training
You’ll gain hands-on experience inside a real Clicks store, including:
- Operating checkout systems
- Assisting customers professionally
- Handling payments and transactions
- Managing queues efficiently
- Maintaining store standards and hygiene
3. Accredited Qualification
On successful completion, participants receive an:
NQF Level 2 Checkout Operator Occupational Qualification
This nationally recognised qualification strengthens your CV and improves employability across retail chains.
QUICK LINKS:
Minimum Requirements
To qualify, you must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between 18–29 years old
- Have passed Matric
- Be currently unemployed
- Not be registered on another learnership or skills programme
- Have strong communication skills
- Be willing to work in a team environment
- Show eagerness to learn and grow
If you meet these requirements, you are eligible to apply.
How to Strengthen Your Application
Retail is customer-facing, so professionalism matters.
Before applying:
- Update your CV professionally
- Highlight communication and teamwork skills
- Include school projects, volunteering, or leadership roles
- Prepare a short motivational statement
- Practice basic customer service scenarios
To stand out even more:
- Research Clicks’ values and customer service standards
- Visit a store to observe operations
- Practice confident, polite customer interactions

How to Apply
APPLY FOR THE CLICKS YOUTH EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (YES) PROGRAMME 2026 HERE
Career Growth After the Programme
Many retail professionals begin at checkout level and grow through internal promotions.
Entry-Level Roles
- Checkout Operator
- Shop Assistant
- Merchandising Assistant
Mid-Level Opportunities
- Senior Cashier
- Department Supervisor
- Assistant Store Manager
Long-Term Growth
- Store Manager
- Area Manager
- Retail Operations Coordinator
- Supply Chain Assistant
Retail experience also builds transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving—valuable in any industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent job?
No. It is a fixed-term structured employment programme. Strong performance may improve future employment prospects.
Is there a stipend?
YES programmes typically include a monthly stipend. Confirm details during the application process.
Do I need retail experience?
No prior experience is required.
Is this only for Western Cape residents?
The listing specifies Western Cape. Preference may be given to local applicants.
What qualification do I receive?
An NQF Level 2 Checkout Operator Occupational Qualification.
Closing Date
23 February 2026
If you’re ready to gain workplace experience, earn an accredited qualification, and build your retail career, this programme could be your starting point.

Mbalizuke Nkosi
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to sharing opportunities, education updates, and career development information. The editorial team focuses on producing clear, reliable, and easy-to-understand content for students, job seekers, and young professionals.
With a strong interest in youth empowerment, skills development, and access to opportunities, Youth Admin curates and publishes content covering learnerships, internships, bursaries, and study guides across South Africa.
The aim of Mbalizuke Nkosi is to simplify important information and make it accessible to young people who are building their future careers.
