There are 2 ways to become a qualified artisan.
- Occupational Qualification: Electrician / Plumber / Millwright etc.
- ARPL : Artisan Recognition of Prior learning
Occupational Qualification
- What is an Occupational Qualification (apprenticeship)?
Occupational Qualification is a route of learning where an apprentice will learn through on-the-job, workplace experience and training.
- What do you need to know before starting an Occupational Qualification?
An Occupational Qualification is a 3 year commitment. You must be willing and prepared to invest 3 years of your live to study and work as an apprentice. An apprenticeship is a job and should be treated with the respect it deserves. - What are the differences between Occupational Qualification and other forms of work-based learning?
You will be placed at a host employer for the duration of your practical exposure. During this time your will be exposed to all aspects of the Trade and will complete your Workplace modules whilst at the workplace. Other work-based learning opportunities, such as internships, are often shorter and offer only work experience with little or no training. - How does an Occupational Qualification compare to a degree?
An Occupational Qualification offers practical and workplace experience and learning resulting in a qualification which leads to your RED SEAL. A degree only offers learning.
Applying to an apprenticeship
- How do I apply?
Simply fill in a registration form to apply! - What qualifications do I need to enrol in an Occupational Qualification (apprenticeship)?
To enrol with IETI you will need to be the minimum age of 16 years and require
Grade 9:
– English
– Second language
– Maths
– Science and 2 other subjects OR a four subject National Technical Certificate N1 - Who can do an OC (Apprenticeship)?
Anyone who meets the above criteria can apply to an apprenticeship. - Are OC (apprenticeships) only for the youth?
OC (Apprenticeships) are available to anyone who wishes to get qualified in a trade. There is only a minimum age requirement. It’s never too late to start an apprenticeship. - How old do I have to be to enrol in an OC (apprenticeship)?
You must be at least 16 years of age to enrol in an apprenticeship. - If I’ve already got a job, can I start an OC (apprenticeship)?
An OC (apprenticeship) is a full time job and training programme. It will depend on your employer but you will likely not have the time for an additional job, and many employers will not allow it. - If I’ve got a university degree can I undertake an apprenticeship?
Yes. A degree will not disqualify you from undertaking an apprenticeship.
How apprenticeships work
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What types of apprenticeships are available?
Apprenticeships are available in many fields. IETI offers apprenticeships for motor mechanics, boilermakers, plasterers, painters, carpentry, bricklaying, plumbers, refrigeration, welders, and electricians.
- Do apprenticeships only offer training in manual occupations?
Apprenticeships are available in many fields, not just manual occupations. - How is training delivered?
OC (Apprenticeships) offer on-the-job experiential workplace training. Additional training will take place through theoretical and practical training courses offered by a training institution. - What might a typical week be like as an apprentice?
A typical week of an apprentice will look like a typical work week of the given field. Some weeks will include additional training which may be scheduled outside of working hours. - How long does an Apprenticeship last?
Apprenticeships are typically 3 to 4 years long. - What do I do when I’ve finished?
Once you are finished with an apprenticeship you will receive your qualifications and proof of your work experience. Then you can apply for work in your given field or you can even decide to start your own company. - Can I stay at the company once I’ve finished my apprenticeship?
If a company is willing to hire you after your apprenticeship then you may stay and work there. Staying on is not guaranteed and it is up to the company to decide if they wish to keep you.
Benefits of an apprenticeship
- How much will I earn?
An apprentice can earn on average between R3500 – R11000 a month. This will vary from employer to employer and according to what profession you are apprenticing for. - What are the benefits?
The primary benefit of undertaking an apprenticeship is to earn while you learn. Additionally, an apprenticeship proves that you have practical workplace experience and offers a good reference to future employers. - Will my employer cover my travel expenses?
An apprenticeship is a paid job and as such you will be expected to cover your own travel expenses. Some employers may include extra pay to cover these expenses but it is unlikely. - Do apprenticeships benefit businesses?
Businesses benefit greatly from apprenticeships. Apprenticeships offer businesses extra staff for a lower cost with the possibility of government funding. They are a way for businesses to train the future workforce to fill in employment gaps. It is also a way to assess the talents of new employees before hiring them on a more permanent basis. - Are the OC (apprenticeships) well regarded amongst employers?
Employers value apprenticeships highly. An apprenticeship shows that the apprentice is capable of performing in a practical workplace setting. - Does an OC (apprenticeship) allow me to progress within my career?
Yes, an apprenticeship is the first step in starting your career as an artisan. It will provide you with the necessary skills and experience to become a fully qualified worker.
Apprenticeships are a great way to earn money whilst learning valuable skills and workplace experience. They are the means by which you can start your career as an artisan. View the apprenticeship and learnership courses available at IETI and get your career started today.