If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a nurse—caring for patients, changing lives, and being part of a life-saving team—then the Life Healthcare Nurse Trainee Programme might be exactly what you need to take that first step. Whether you’re finishing high school or looking to level up your healthcare career, this programme offers two powerful paths: a Diploma in Nursing and a Higher Certificate in Nursing.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about this opportunity and how you can apply.
What’s the Nurse Trainee Programme All About?
The Life Healthcare Nurse Trainee Programme is designed for passionate individuals who want to pursue a career in nursing. There are two options you can choose from:
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Higher Certificate in Nursing (1 year): This is perfect for those looking to start as auxiliary nurses. It’s a great foundation to build on.
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Diploma in Nursing (3 years): A more advanced, professional programme that prepares you to become a registered nurse in South Africa.
Both qualifications are fully accredited by the South African Nursing Council (SANC), ensuring you’re getting high-quality, recognised training. What makes this programme especially valuable is the mix of academic learning and hands-on clinical experience in Life Healthcare hospitals. That means you’ll not only learn theory but also apply your skills in real-world healthcare settings.
Why Choose Life Healthcare for Your Nursing Training?
There are plenty of nursing schools in South Africa, but Life Healthcare stands out for several reasons:
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Accredited and Respected – The programme is approved by SANC, the Department of Higher Education, and the Council on Higher Education.
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Practical Training – You’ll learn in a hospital environment from day one, so you’re job-ready when you graduate.
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Strong Track Record – Life College of Learning has been around since 1998 and is known for producing skilled, compassionate nurses.
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Multiple Campuses – With seven training centres across the country, you can study close to home.
Where Are the Life Healthcare Learning Centres?
The programme is offered at Life College of Learning campuses in:
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Cape Town
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Durban
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East London
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Port Elizabeth
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Pretoria
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Roodepoort
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Springs
Each campus is linked to a Life Healthcare hospital, giving you access to state-of-the-art facilities and experienced healthcare professionals.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the Diploma or Higher Certificate in Nursing, you’ll need:
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A National Senior Certificate (Matric) with:
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English (Home or First Additional Language): at least Level 4 (50%)
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Life Sciences (or Biology): at least Level 4 (50%)
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Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: at least Level 3–4 (40–50%)
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A minimum APS score of 23 (depending on the programme).
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To be 18 or older, in good health, and able to pass a criminal and medical clearance.
If you’re already working in healthcare as an enrolled nurse, you might qualify for a bridging course that leads to the full Diploma.
When and How to Apply
The application window for the Life Healthcare Nurse Trainee Programme 2025 is now open, typically running from June to August. Each campus might have slightly different deadlines, but August 31 is often the cut-off, so it’s best to apply early.
Here’s how to do it:
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Visit the Life Healthcare website and download the application form.
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Fill it out carefully. Choose between the Higher Certificate or Diploma in Nursing.
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Gather your documents:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copy of your matric certificate or latest results
- Proof of residence
- Passport-sized photo
- Non-refundable application fee(check the latest amount online)
4.Submit your full application to your selected campus before the deadline.
Make sure your application is complete–incomplete submission won’t be considered
What About Tuition Fees and Funding?
Tuition fees vary depending on the programme and campus, but here’s a general idea:
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Higher Certificate in Nursing: around R30,000 – R40,000 for the year
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Diploma in Nursing: around R50,000 – R70,000 per year
Some students may qualify for Life Healthcare bursaries, or they apply for funding through NSFAS, private banks, or employer sponsorships. It’s worth exploring all your options—nursing is an investment in your future.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates of the Life Healthcare Nurse Trainee Programme are in high demand. Many go on to work within Life Healthcare hospitals, while others find jobs in public hospitals, private clinics, and community health centres across South Africa.
You’ll leave the programme not just with a certificate or diploma—but with real clinical experience, confidence, and the skills to make a difference.
Final Thoughts: Is This Programme for You?
If you’re serious about a career in nursing and want the best training, Life Healthcare’s Nurse Trainee Programme is an excellent choice. It combines world-class education with practical hospital experience, helping you grow into a capable and compassionate healthcare professional.
So, if you’ve got the passion, the grades, and the drive—don’t wait. Start your application today, and take that first step toward a meaningful career in nursing.
Quick Checklist Before You Apply ✅
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Matric with required subjects and grades
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ID and academic certificates ready
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Know your preferred campus
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Download and complete the form
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Submit before August deadline
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Prepare for your future in healthcare!
