Matriculants looking to break into the insurance industry have a paid, structured route to try. Global broker Marsh has opened its 2027 Learnership Programme, a 12-month opportunity that pairs on-the-job training with a recognised qualification and a monthly stipend — and it’s aimed at young South Africans who haven’t yet started tertiary studies or a formal job.
The programme runs on a fixed-term contract based in either Durban or Sandton, and successful applicants need to be ready to start on 1 February 2027.
What’s on offer
This is more than work exposure. Over the 12 months, learners study while gaining practical experience, and those who complete the programme walk away with an Occupational Certificate: Insurance Underwriter, pegged at NQF Level 5. A monthly stipend runs for the duration of the learnership, and Marsh frames the programme as a foundation for a longer-term career with the firm rather than a once-off placement.
The role sits in a hybrid working setup, with learners expected in the office three days a week. That’s a practical detail worth planning around, especially when it comes to where you live.
Who qualifies
The eligibility criteria are specific, and Marsh is clear that some are non-negotiable. To be considered, you must be:
- A South African citizen.
- Aged between 18 and 25.
- In possession of a Matric certificate and/or statement of results, proving you passed matric in 2025 or earlier.
On the subjects front, your Matric needs to include English as a first or second language, plus either Maths or Maths Literacy.
There are also conditions that will disqualify applicants. You should not have previously taken part in any SETA-funded initiative, and you cannot be enrolled in post-Matric studies or in formal employment. Marsh also states that learners won’t be allowed to pursue post-Matric studies or other initiatives while on the programme — so this is designed to be your full focus for the year.
The location factor
The opportunities are based in Durban and Sandton, and applicants are expected to live in or close to the area where the opportunity is available. Combined with the three-days-a-week office requirement, that makes proximity a real consideration. If you’re outside these areas, weigh up the commute or relocation before you apply.
Why it matters
For school leavers, a learnership at an established company is one of the more dependable ways to move from matric into a career — it offers income, an accredited qualification and workplace experience at the same time, which is a difficult combination to find. The insurance underwriting certificate is a portable credential, meaning the value carries beyond this single programme.
The trade-off is exclusivity in two senses. Marsh says only a limited number of places are on offer, and the entry rules deliberately narrow the field to young people who are genuinely at the starting line — not those already studying further or working. Reading the criteria honestly against your own situation will tell you quickly whether it’s worth applying.
How to apply
Applications go through Marsh’s recruitment process, and the documents you upload matter. Have these ready before you start:
- Your CV.
- A copy of your ID.
- Your Matric certificate and/or statement of results.
Marsh is explicit on one point: applications without an ID copy and Matric certificate will be declined. Missing paperwork is an avoidable reason to be knocked out, so double-check your uploads before submitting.
Run through this quick checklist first:
- You’re a South African citizen aged 18–25.
- You passed matric in 2025 or earlier, with English (first or second language) and Maths or Maths Literacy.
- You’re not in post-Matric studies or formal employment.
- You haven’t previously taken part in a SETA-funded initiative.
- You live in or near Durban or Sandton.
- You can start on 1 February 2027.
At a glance
- Company: Marsh
- Programme: Learnership Programme 2027
- Field: Insurance (Underwriting)
- Qualification: Occupational Certificate: Insurance Underwriter (NQF Level 5)
- Locations: Durban and Sandton
- Duration: 12 months (fixed-term contract)
- Work setup: Hybrid — three days a week in office
- Start date: 1 February 2027
- Stipend: Monthly stipend for the duration (amount not stated)
- Age: 18–25
- Citizenship: South African
Questions applicants often ask
Do I need to have finished matric already? Yes. You must have a Matric certificate and/or statement of results showing you passed in 2025 or earlier.
Is there an age limit? Yes — applicants must be between 18 and 25.
Can I study part-time while on the programme? No. Learners aren’t permitted to take part in post-Matric studies or other initiatives during the learnership.
Which subjects do I need? English (first or second language) and either Maths or Maths Literacy.
Is it paid? Yes, there’s a monthly stipend for the full 12 months. The available information doesn’t state the amount.
Is there a closing date? The available information doesn’t specify a deadline. Because places are limited, it’s sensible to apply early and check the listing for the latest status.
What documents get me disqualified if missing? Applications without an ID copy and Matric certificate will be declined, so make sure both are uploaded.
Source: Marsh Learnership Programme 2027 vacancy information.
Editorial policy: This report is based on the programme details available at the time of writing. Facts are presented as supplied by the employer and have not been supplemented with unverified figures, dates or claims.
Corrections policy: We value accuracy. If you spot a factual error, let us know and we’ll review and correct it where necessary.
Disclaimer: Learnership requirements, availability and recruitment arrangements can change without notice. Applicants should confirm the latest details through Marsh’s official recruitment channels. Legitimate learnerships and employers never charge a fee to apply — do not pay to submit an application.
