Learnership – Professional Cookery

Job Reference Number: SI-1205

Position Type: Fixed-Term Contract (Learnership Program)

Positions Available: 10

Salary: Market-Related Stipend

Posting Date: 02 October 2026

About Sun International & Wild Coast Sun

Sun International is one of Africa’s premier gaming, hospitality , and entertainment groups, famous for delivering unforgettable guest experiences across world-class hotels, resorts, and casinos. Located along the scenic unspoiled beaches of the South Coast near Port Edward, the Wild Coast Sun Casino and Resort is a flagship coastal destination offering luxury accommodations, championship golf, vibrant gaming, and exceptional culinary experiences.

At Sun International, we believe in investing in local talent and nurturing the next generation of hospitality professionals. Our learnership programs combine formal theoretical training with practical, hands‑on workplace experience under the guidance of seasoned culinary experts. Joining this program means stepping onto a structured career pathway within South Africa’s thriving hospitality industry .

What the Learnership is All About

We are offering an exciting, fully funded 12-month training opportunity for 10 vibrant, passionate, and driven individuals to enroll in the National Certificate in Professional Cookery.

As a culinary learner, you will be based directly in the busy kitchens and Food & Beverage outlets of the Wild Coast Sun. You will gain practical exposure to professional food preparation, kitchen hygiene standards, menu execution, stock management, and culinary presentation.

This program requires energy, resilience, and a genuine passion for food preparation. Working in a commercial resort kitchen is fast‑paced and physically demanding, but it offers an invaluable foundation for anyone dreaming of becoming a professional chef or kitchen leader.

Key Duties & Practical Work Exposures

1. Professional Kitchen Operations & Food Preparation

• Learn and apply basic food preparation techniques, including knife skills, ingredient measuring, portion control, and cooking methods across various station lines.
• Assist qualified chefs with preparing hot and cold dishes, buffets, banquets, and à la carte menu items according to established kitchen recipes and quality standards.
• Follow standardized preparation sheets, ensure correct dish presentation, and maintain food quality to enhance the overall guest dining experience.

2. Hygiene, Sanitation & Food Safety Compliance

• Strictly adhere to Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations and international Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) food safety protocols.
• Maintain absolute cleanliness across workstation benches, cooking equipment, utensils, and food storage areas.
• Practice correct food handling, temperature monitoring, stock labeling, and food rotation (First-In, First-Out) to prevent food contamination and waste.
• Assist with receiving, inspecting, unpacking, and storing fresh produce, meat, dairy, and dry goods in walk‑in fridges and storerooms.
• Report any damaged equipment, maintenance needs, or stock shortages to kitchen supervisors immediately.

4. Teamwork & Guest Service Mindset

• Work collaboratively with kitchen team members, scullery staff, and front‑of‑house waitrons to ensure smooth, efficient meal service during peak trading hours.
• Display high personal ethics, professional discipline, and a strong guest‑first attitude in every daily task.

What We Are Looking For

Minimum Entry Requirements

• Education: Grade 12 Certificate / Matric with a pass in Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
• Language Skills: Ability to speak, read, and write fluently in English to complete accredited learnership coursework and communicate effectively in the kitchen.
• Legal Documentation: Valid South African Identity Document (ID).
• Physical & Environmental Capability:
  • Physical stamina and health to stand for long hours on your feet in a hot kitchen environment.
  • Full willingness to work in designated smoking environments within the casino complex.
  • Willingness and availability to work flexible shifts, including early mornings, late nights, weekends, and public holidays.

Target Area & Employment Equity Preferences

• Priority Preference: Right of first refusal will be granted to qualifying candidates from the Mgungundlovu Communal Property Association (MCPA) and local licensed surrounding areas:
  • Mbizana, Flagstaff, Mount Fletcher, Lusikisiki, Matatiele, Mount Ayliff, Mount Frere, uMzimkhulu, and Ntabankulu.
• Employment Equity: Preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates from designated groups in line with the Employment E