A Unique Opportunity for Grade 12 Learners Interested in Civil Engineering
Choosing what to do after matric can be challenging, especially for learners who know they want a career in engineering but would like practical experience before starting university.
The Martin & East Matric Gap Year Programme 2027 offers a valuable opportunity for Grade 12 learners to gain hands-on experience in the construction industry while earning a salary and building skills that can support a future career in Civil Engineering.
Unlike a traditional gap year, this programme provides structured workplace exposure, industry training, and the chance to participate in a Construction Roadworks and Supervision Learnership. Outstanding participants may also be considered for bursary funding to study Civil Engineering at selected South African universities.
For learners who are passionate about infrastructure development, roads, bridges, and construction projects, this programme provides an excellent foundation for future success.
About the Martin & East Matric Gap Year Programme
Martin & East is offering Grade 12 learners an opportunity to spend a year gaining practical industry experience before beginning their tertiary studies.
Participants will work alongside experienced professionals in the construction sector and gain valuable insight into how major infrastructure projects are planned, managed, and completed.
The programme is designed to help learners develop workplace skills while strengthening their understanding of Civil Engineering in a real-world environment.
Programme Overview
| Programme Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Martin & East Matric Gap Year Programme 2027 |
| Company | Martin & East (Pty) Ltd |
| Location | South Africa |
| Programme Type | Gap Year Development Programme |
| Learnership Included | Construction Roadworks and Supervision Learnership |
| Application Closing Date | 30 October 2026 |
| Target Group | Grade 12 Learners |
| Future Study Focus | Civil Engineering |
Why This Gap Year Programme Stands Out
Many students begin university studies without fully understanding what their chosen profession involves.
This programme helps bridge that gap by providing direct exposure to the construction and engineering environment before tertiary studies begin.
Participants will have the opportunity to:
- Earn a salary during the programme
- Gain practical construction experience
- Learn from industry professionals
- Build workplace confidence
- Develop professional networks
- Improve future employability
- Strengthen university applications
By the time learners enter university, they will already have valuable industry exposure that many students only gain much later in their studies.
Areas of Industry Exposure
Participants may gain exposure to a wide range of Civil Engineering and construction activities throughout the programme.
Road Construction and Rehabilitation
Road infrastructure remains one of the most important components of economic development.
Learners may gain insight into:
- Road construction processes
- Road rehabilitation projects
- Pavement structures
- Construction materials
- Quality assurance procedures
- Site preparation activities
This exposure helps participants understand how transportation infrastructure is developed and maintained.
Bulk Earthworks and Landfill Projects
Earthworks form the foundation of many major construction projects.
Participants may observe activities related to:
- Excavation
- Site clearing
- Soil compaction
- Ground preparation
- Landfill construction
These processes are critical for ensuring long-term infrastructure stability.
Pipelines and Underground Infrastructure
Civil Engineering extends beyond what is visible on the surface.
Learners may gain exposure to:
- Water pipeline installations
- Sewer infrastructure
- Underground utility services
- Installation methods
- Infrastructure maintenance processes
Understanding underground services is an important part of infrastructure development.
Bridges and Concrete Structures
Participants may also learn about large-scale structural projects.
Possible exposure areas include:
- Bridge construction
- Reinforced concrete structures
- Structural inspections
- Construction supervision
- Engineering quality control
These projects demonstrate the practical application of engineering principles.
Road Surfacing and Maintenance
Maintaining road infrastructure is just as important as constructing new roads.
Learners may gain insight into:
- Asphalt surfacing
- Road maintenance planning
- Repair techniques
- Quality management systems
This experience highlights the importance of infrastructure sustainability.
Trenchless Technology Solutions
Modern construction increasingly relies on innovative technologies.
Participants may gain exposure to trenchless construction methods that allow underground infrastructure to be installed with minimal disruption.
These techniques continue to play an important role in modern engineering projects.
Housing and Community Infrastructure
The programme may also expose learners to projects that improve communities through:
- Housing developments
- Infrastructure services
- Community construction initiatives
These projects demonstrate how engineering contributes directly to social and economic development.
Synthetic Playing Fields
Participants may gain insight into the planning and construction of specialised sporting facilities.
This exposure introduces learners to another area of infrastructure development within the built environment.
Erosion Protection and Gabion Systems
Protecting infrastructure from environmental damage is a key engineering responsibility.
Learners may observe:
- Erosion control measures
- Gabion construction
- Environmental protection projects
- Infrastructure preservation techniques
Crushing and Screening Operations
Construction projects require high-quality materials.
Participants may gain exposure to:
- Aggregate production
- Material screening processes
- Quality control testing
- Construction material management
Understanding material quality is essential in Civil Engineering.
Construction Roadworks and Supervision Learnership
One of the most valuable aspects of this opportunity is the inclusion of a Construction Roadworks and Supervision Learnership.
This means participants will not simply observe projects.
They will also receive structured training that supports practical learning and professional development.
The learnership component can significantly strengthen a participant’s CV and future career prospects within the construction industry.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements.
Academic Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be in Grade 12 during 2026
- Intend to study Civil Engineering in 2028
- Achieve at least 60% in:
- Pure Mathematics, or
- Mathematics Literacy, or
- Technical Mathematics
- Achieve at least 60% in Physical Science
Citizenship Requirement
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens
Only applicants who meet the minimum academic requirements will be considered.
Bursary Opportunities After Completion
A major benefit of the programme is the possibility of receiving bursary support for tertiary studies.
Bursaries may be awarded based on:
- Performance during the Gap Year Programme
- Acceptance into an approved tertiary institution
- Internal selection processes
Strong performers may receive financial assistance to continue their Civil Engineering studies.
Universities That May Be Considered for Funding
Successful candidates who receive bursary support may be considered for studies at:
- University of Cape Town
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Pretoria
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Nelson Mandela University
Eligible Qualifications
Funding may support studies towards:
- Bachelor of Engineering (Civil)
- Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Civil)
- Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Civil)
- Diploma in Civil Engineering
These qualifications can lead to rewarding careers within the construction and infrastructure sectors.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Comprehensive CV
- June 2026 Grade 12 results
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Academic achievement certificates (if available)
- Leadership certificates (if available)
- Community involvement certificates (if available)
Well-prepared supporting documents can strengthen an application.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit their application via email.
Application Details
Email Address: careers@megroup.co.za
Email Subject: Scholar Recruitment 2027
Contact Persons
- Megan Adonis
- Zelia Cyster
Before submitting, ensure all required documents are attached and clearly readable.
Tips for a Strong Application
To improve your chances of being selected:
- Keep your CV professional and up to date
- Highlight academic achievements
- Include leadership activities
- Mention community involvement
- Demonstrate your interest in Civil Engineering
- Ensure your documents are clear and complete
Recruiters often look for candidates who show commitment, discipline, and a genuine interest in engineering and construction.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 30 October 2026.
Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the deadline to avoid missing this opportunity.
Final Thoughts
The Martin & East Matric Gap Year Programme 2027 offers much more than a traditional gap year.
Participants have the opportunity to earn a salary, gain valuable workplace experience, complete a recognised learnership, and position themselves for potential bursary funding in Civil Engineering.
For Grade 12 learners who are serious about building a future in infrastructure development and engineering, this programme provides an excellent stepping stone between school and university.
