An apprenticeship is a work-based route of achieving qualifications for students who are interested in working in a practical and technical field as an artisan. An apprenticeship is focused on a trade. All trades are listed by the National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB). This body is responsible for moderating trade tests.
Here are some apprenticeship trades in South Africa:
- Boilermaker
- Cabinetmaker
- Chef
- Diamond Cutter
- Diesel Mechanic
- Electrician
- Goldsmith
- Hairdresser
- Mechatronics Technician
- Millwright
- Refrigeration Mechanic
- Tailor
- Toolmaker
- Upholsterer
- Welder
Who Qualifies For An Apprenticeship?
The entry requirements are not the same for all apprenticeships. The type of trade determines the qualification. Here are the general requirements depending on trade and employer:
- Be 16 years or older
- Language proficiency must be at Grade 10 level
- Most apprenticeships require knowledge in the following subjects in at least a Grade 10 level. The subjects must have been acquired through the school system or through programmes offered by TVET Colleges (NATED or NC (V)):
- Mathematics
- Science
- Technical Drawing
- Some employers only take in apprentices with Grade 12 and also apply other criteria in selecting learners that meet internal organisational requirements
What Can I Do If I Do Not Meet The Requirements
If you do not meet the entry requirements of an apprenticeship, you can register at the National Artisan Development Support Centre (NADSC) for the Generic Trade Preparation Programme, in which public TVET Colleges offer Bridging Courses in the following subjects:
- Mathematics
- Engineering Science
- Electronics
- Computer Skills
- Life Orientation
How Does An Apprenticeship Work?
Here is how an apprenticeship work:
- As an apprentice, you are registered in your trade in terms of the training provisions
- You will sign an apprenticeship agreement with your employer. If you are under 18 years, your parent or guardian can sign for you
- Complete four (4) relevant N2 subjects at a TVET College (Your employer will pay for your tuition and assessment fees)
- Apply for a Trade Test when all training is completed
- Go for a trade test at a SETA (Sector Education Training Authority)-accredited Trade Test Centre
- Pass your Trade Test and qualify as an Artisan by the QCTO
- Get awarded a National Trade Certificate
What Are The Advantages Of Apprenticeships?
Here are some of the advantages of an apprenticeship:
- Gain hands-on experience – Since you will be working with experienced artisans, you will improve your skill set and benefit from hands-on experience
- Benefit from support systems and learning aids – In an apprenticeship setting, there is a higher level of support from your employers. The tools of your trade and learning aids are readily available as the companies are well-resourced
- Get paid to learn – When you are doing an apprenticeship you are as good as employed as you will get a basic salary. You will not have to get a loan or get your fees paid by your parents or guardians to learn. Instead, you will get paid to learn.
- Gain qualifications – In the process of your apprenticeship, you will gain recognised qualifications for your trade to validate your skills and knowledge. You will earn qualifications and experience all at the same time. Being certified will increase your chances of future job prospects.
- Get a feel for the work environment – An apprenticeship will give you a feel of the work environment. You will already have gained confidence in the workplace in the event that you move to another employer at the end of your apprenticeship.
- Choose from a variety of Trades – With an apprenticeship, you can choose from a variety of fields. However, pick a programme that you have an interest in.
Is An Apprenticeship A Full-Time Job?
Yes, an apprenticeship is a full-time job. Though you will be under training, it is a full-time job. Also, remember that you will have signed a contract between yourself and your employer.
Does An Apprenticeship Guarantee A Job?
Employment after qualifying as an Artisan is usually guaranteed. The majority of apprentices stay with the same employer on completion. Often, they go on to work their way up the corporate ladder with further training and promotions.
How Many Hours Can An Apprentice Work?
Since an apprentice is regarded as an employee though still under training, he/she works the same number of hours as other employees. The standard hours of work for most organisations in South Africa is 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week.
Is Apprenticeship Considered Work Experience?
Apprenticeship can be considered as work experience. This is because you will be working during your period of training. However, that decision will largely depend on your future employer.
How Long Is An Apprenticeship?
Most apprenticeships can take between three (3) to four (4) years to complete. However, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can also be taken into account. If the apprentice completed formal study or work experience relevant to the specific trade previously, this can be assessed and taken into account.
RPL can reduce the time taken to complete the apprenticeship. The full apprenticeship training must include the following:
- 10 weeks of trade-related theory
- 32 weeks of off-the-job practical training. This is, to develop, the skills to apply the tools of the job.
- 80 weeks of on-the-job training
How Much Do Apprentices Get Paid In South Africa?
The average entry-level salary for an apprentice is R 10 500.00 per month. The average median salary for an apprentice is around is R 12 513.00 per month. The highest paid apprentice’s salary is an average of R 18 550.00 per month.
What Is A Boilermaker's Salary In South Africa?
Here is what a Boilermaker and others who would have gone through an apprenticeship earn on average according to za.talent.com:
ARTISAN | ENTRY LEVEL SALARY (0- 3 Years of Experience) | MEDIAN SALARY (4 to 9 Years of Experience) | HIGHEST SALARY (10+ Years of Experience) |
Boilermaker | R 17 333.00 | R 24 500.00 | R 59 970.00 |
Diesel Mechanic | R 18 500.00 | R 23 333.00 | R 38 225.00 |
Toolmaker | R 23 500.00 | R 27 500.00 | R 45 453.00 |
Electrician | R 18 523.00 | R 25 123.00 | R 51 511.00 |
R 13 000.00 | R 15 000.00 | R 22 005.00 |
Can You Fail An Apprenticeship?
Yes, you can fail an apprenticeship. Remember, in addition to on-the-job training, you must also attend formal training with a training provider. When you fail, you will not be certified until you meet the requirements of a pass.
Here is what you must complete in order for you to qualify as an Artisan in your chosen field:
- Tests
- Assignments
- Workplace learning activities
- A Trade Test is your final assessment
Do Get A Certificate After The Apprenticeship?
Yes, you get a Certificate after your apprenticeship. Apprentices who successfully complete the Trade Test will be certified as Artisan and will receive a Certificate issued by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). The Certificate will indicate the qualification awarded and the trade.
What NQF Level Is An Apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is at a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 4. This means its learning experience is equivalent to that of a Matric. The NQF classify qualifications with the same learning experiences at the same level.
What Is The Difference Between Learnership And Apprenticeship?
Here are the differences between a learnership and an apprenticeship:
| LEARNERSHIP | APPRENTICESHIP | |
| Age of students | No age restriction for students entering a learnership | Usually entry-level employees |
| NQF Level | Qualifications can span across all eight (8) NQF levels | NQF Level 4 |
| Duration | Mostly 12 to 18 months | Three (3) to four (4) years |
| Credit for outcomes achieved | Learners are awarded credits for the outcomes successfully archived, even if they do not complete the learnership | No formal recognition for outcomes achieved if apprentices do not complete the programme |
| Purpose of learning | Promote access to employment as well as further education and training | Develop trade-specific skills |
| Assessment | Final assessment by the workplace and training provider | Learner’s competency is assessed through Trade Tests conducted by institutions accredited under the Manpower Training Act |
| Employment after conducting the learnership/apprenticeship | Employment is not guaranteed but can prepare you for starting your own business | Employment is usually guaranteed |
Can I Study To Be A Boilermaker Without Matric?
Yes, you can study to be a Boilermaker without Matric. If you are not a technical person, here are the courses that you can study without Matric:
- ICB Courses
- Matric Courses
- Short Courses
- Crèche Management Courses
- Child Day Care Courses
- Child Psychology Courses
- Salon Management Expert Course
- Nail Care Courses
- Make-up Courses
- Facial Skincare Courses
- Beauty Therapy Expert Course
- Tourism Management Courses
- Guest House Management Courses
- Events Management Courses
- Wedding Planning Courses
- First Aid Course Courses
How Do I Register With Matric College?
You can use any of the following ways to register at Matric College:
Author: Collin Wilbesi
Editor: Sive Ncanywa
Date: August 22, 2022