Novus Holdings has opened applications for a 36-month Apprenticeship 2027 at Novus Print in Montague Gardens. Grade 12 candidates with Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy can pursue training in five specialised printing trades from January 2027. Applications close on 18 September 2026, while no stipend amount appears in the official listing.
For matriculants interested in technical manufacturing, this programme offers a structured path into South Africa’s printing industry. Successful candidates will combine classroom learning with extensive practical experience as they prepare for their respective trade tests.
Novus Holdings will contract each apprentice for the duration of the training. However, successful completion does not automatically guarantee permanent placement in the chosen trade.
Which printing trades are available through Novus Holdings?
The Apprenticeship 2027 programme covers five specialised areas within the printing production process. Therefore, applicants should consider which trade best matches their technical interests and abilities.
The available trades are:
- Lithography Press
- Electronic Pre-Press
- Mechanised Bookbinding
- Gravure Press
- Sheetfed Press
Each area supports a different stage of commercial print production. For example, electronic pre-press focuses on preparing digital files and layouts, while mechanised bookbinding covers the finishing and assembly of printed materials.
Meanwhile, lithography, gravure and sheetfed press apprentices will develop skills linked to operating and maintaining specialised printing machinery.
How will the three-year apprenticeship work?
The programme runs for 36 months and starts in January 2027. Throughout this period, apprentices will complete both facilitated theoretical instruction and workplace-based experiential training.
During the first phase, candidates will spend approximately three to four months completing theoretical training at the academy.
Afterwards, phases two to four will involve approximately 26 to 30 months of practical training at Novus Print. Apprentices will apply their classroom knowledge in a working printing environment while developing the competence required for their selected trade.
In addition, the three-year programme includes core theoretical training through the academy and Printing South Africa. This combination will prepare apprentices for the relevant trade tests.
Who qualifies for the Novus Holdings Apprenticeship 2027?
Applicants must have completed Grade 12 with either Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
Candidates presenting Mathematical Literacy must have achieved a minimum pass mark of 60%. Furthermore, applicants must attach their matric certificate or latest academic results when submitting their details.
A technical background will strengthen an application, although Novus Holdings lists this as an advantage rather than a compulsory requirement.
Suitable candidates should therefore have:
- A Grade 12 certificate or latest Grade 12 results
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
- At least 60% for Mathematical Literacy
- An interest in printing and manufacturing
- The ability to learn technical processes
- A willingness to complete theoretical and workplace training
- Attention to detail and a responsible approach to machinery
Because printing environments rely on accuracy, safety and production standards, candidates should also demonstrate reliability and a willingness to follow instructions.
Will apprentices receive a stipend during training?
The advertisement does not provide a stipend, allowance or salary amount. Therefore, candidates should not assume a specific monthly payment when planning for the programme.
However, successful applicants will enter into a training contract with Novus Holdings and the Fibre Processing and Manufacturing Sector Education and Training Authority for the apprenticeship period.
Candidates may receive further information about remuneration and other contractual conditions during the recruitment process.
Does completing the programme guarantee permanent employment?
Novus Holdings does not guarantee permanent placement after the apprenticeship. Instead, the contract covers the three-year training period.
Although the vacancy platform categorises the opportunity as temporary with the possibility of becoming permanent, Novus Holdings clearly states that it carries no contractual obligation to appoint apprentices permanently after completion.
Nevertheless, completing the programme and passing the relevant trade test can provide candidates with valuable technical knowledge, practical exposure and a recognised route into the printing sector.
Itumeleng’s Insider Tip: If you have taken technical subjects, completed practical projects or worked with machinery at school, include those details in your curriculum vitae. Even though a technical foundation is not compulsory, practical examples can show that you understand safety, accuracy and hands-on problem-solving.
How can candidates submit their applications?
Before submitting, applicants should prepare a clear curriculum vitae and a certified copy of their Grade 12 certificate or latest academic results. Candidates using Mathematical Literacy should ensure that their results clearly show the required 60% pass mark.
Applications must be submitted through the official online application portal.
The closing date is 18 September 2026. However, candidates should submit early so they have enough time to correct missing documents or incomplete information before the portal closes.
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Final Thoughts
The Novus Holdings Apprenticeship 2027 gives matriculants an opportunity to spend three years developing specialised printing skills through classroom instruction and practical workplace training.
With five trades available, the programme could suit candidates interested in machinery, production, digital print preparation or printed-product finishing. Most importantly, applicants should confirm that they meet the Mathematics requirements and attach clear academic results before the September deadline.
