SAIPA Accounting Clerk Learnership at MANCOSA offers Durban North accounting students a 3-year practical training pathway.
For accounting students and graduates in Durban North, finding practical training that actually leads somewhere can feel exhausting.
The SAIPA Accounting Clerk Learnership offered by MANCOSA Pty Ltd changes that equation — and applications close soon.
If you’re studying BCom Accounting and want real exposure, not just theory, see why this opportunity matters now.
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Why This SAIPA Accounting Clerk Learnership Is Different From Short-Term Internships
Many young accountants enter the job market with strong academic knowledge but little practical exposure. Employers often want candidates who can already handle VAT returns, payroll, and financial statements — skills rarely mastered in lectures alone.
This 3-year SAIPA learnership is designed to close that gap.
Unlike 12-month internships that end just as learners start understanding the work, this programme allows time to build depth, confidence, and professional discipline. Over three years, learners are trained in real accounting environments, following real deadlines and dealing with real compliance requirements.
For aspiring professional accountants, this structure is crucial. SAIPA recognition means the experience gained is not just useful — it’s credible.
What Learners Will Actually Work On Day to Day
This learnership is hands-on from the start. Learners are not observers; they are part of the accounting workflow.
Key responsibilities include:
- Writing up books of accounts
- Preparing VAT, PAYE, and UIF returns
- Calculating PAYE and maintaining salary registers
- Compiling annual financial statements
- Preparing income tax and provisional tax returns
In practical terms, a learner might spend one week reconciling transactions, another preparing statutory submissions, and another assisting with year-end reports.
This kind of exposure builds technical confidence quickly. By the second or third year, learners typically understand not just what to do, but why accuracy and deadlines matter so much in accounting.
Who This SAIPA Accounting Clerk Learnership Is Really For (And Who Should Reconsider)
This opportunity is not broad — it’s targeted. Understanding whether you truly fit the profile can save time and disappointment.
You should apply if:
- You are studying towards a BCom Accounting or accounting & tax qualification
- You are serious about a long-term accounting career
- You are willing to work on-site in an office environment
- You can commit to three full years
- You live in or near Durban North (Phoenix, Verulam, Tongaat, surrounding areas)
APPLY FOR SAIPA Accounting Clerk Learnership
You may struggle if:
- You are looking for remote or hybrid work
- You want a short-term placement only
- You are not comfortable working under deadlines
- You prefer independent work over teamwork
Accounting is detail-driven. The learnership demands consistency, patience, and accountability — qualities that matter more than brilliance.
Skills That Will Matter More Than Marks-SAIPA Accounting Clerk Learnership
While academic progress is important, the competencies listed in the advert reveal what employers truly value.
Successful learners usually show:
- A hunger to learn, especially when tasks are repetitive
- Commitment to meeting deadlines, even under pressure
- Willingness to ask questions early rather than fix errors later
- Ability to work calmly within a team environment
For example, submitting a VAT return accurately and on time may seem routine — but mistakes can result in penalties. Learners who treat small tasks seriously build trust fast.
This learnership rewards reliability as much as intelligence.
Remuneration, Location, and Reality Checks-SAIPA Accounting Clerk Learnership
The starting remuneration is from R8,000 per month for degreed individuals with no experience. While modest, it reflects the structured training and long-term value of the programme.
The position is fully office-based, which is common in accounting environments where supervision and confidentiality are essential.
Living close to the workplace is not a small requirement. Daily commuting costs and time can affect performance, so proximity matters.
This is not an easy programme — but it is a realistic one.
How to Strengthen Your Application-SAIPA Accounting Clerk Learnership
Competition for SAIPA learnerships is usually high. Small details can set applicants apart.
Strong applications usually include:
- A clear academic transcript showing progress in accounting subjects
- A CV highlighting discipline, teamwork, and reliability
- A short motivation explaining why accounting — not just why the job
Honesty matters. Employers prefer a learner who admits they are still learning over one who overstates ability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)-SAIPA Accounting Clerk Learnership
Is this a permanent job?
No. It is a 3-year SAIPA learnership, but it provides recognised experience for future roles.
Do I need work experience?
No prior experience is required. The programme is designed for learners.
Is the position remote?
No. This is a full on-site office position.
What qualification is required?
You must be studying towards a BCom Accounting or accounting & tax qualification.
Who should apply geographically?
Candidates living in Durban North areas such as Phoenix, Verulam, or Tongaat.
Final Thought
The SAIPA Accounting Clerk Learnership at MANCOSA is not fast or flashy — and that’s exactly why it matters.
It offers structure, depth, and recognised experience in a profession where credibility is earned over time.
For accounting students willing to commit, this is not just training — it’s a foundation.
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