Apprenticeships are programmes that cover theoretical and practical training and result in a full qualification endorsed by the Fibre Processing and Manufacturing SETA and the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA. The duration of a full-time Apprenticeship up to the point where a learner enrols for a Trade Test, is between twenty-four and thirty months, depending on the trade. 

SAFCOL offers Apprenticeships in the areas of Millwright, Diesel Mechanic, Electrician, Fitter and Boilermaker. Theoretical training is offered by external training providers, while practical training is offered at SAFCOL’s Timbadola sawmill in the Levubu area of Limpopo. All external Apprenticeship candidates receive training material, applicable tools and equipment, a monthly stipend, daily lunch and personal protective clothing. In some cases, learners may also receive accommodation. Apprenticeships are advertised annually.