Artisan Occupational Qualification
: 36-48 Months
Blended Learning, Practical Training and Workplace Experience
The National Occupational Certificate: Plumber prepares learners to operate professionally as plumbers.
Plumbers install, maintain, test and repair hot- and cold-water systems, drainage and sewerage systems, sanitary installations and rainwater systems.
The qualification combines technical knowledge, practical skills and real workplace experience to develop the competencies required within residential, commercial, industrial and construction environments.
NQF Level 1 with Mathematical Literacy and Communication.
Recognition of Prior Learning may provide an alternative access route for applicants with appropriate previous learning or workplace experience.
The theoretical principles, regulations, calculations, materials, systems and technical knowledge required by a plumber.
Hands-on plumbing activities completed in an appropriately equipped practical training environment.
Work Experience Modules
Structured experience within an appropriate workplace where learners apply their skills under actual working conditions.
Blended Learning
The knowledge component can combine facilitated classes, online learning, self-study and learner support.
Practical modules require physical attendance at the training centre or approved practical facility.
Work experience is completed within an appropriate plumbing, construction, maintenance or related workplace.
Learners receive practical training in the installation, testing, maintenance and repair of plumbing systems.
Practical activities may include pipe preparation and joining, installation of sanitary ware, drainage installations, water-supply systems, fault finding, testing and the safe use of plumbing tools and equipment.
Workplace learning allows learners to apply their training to actual plumbing projects and maintenance activities.
The workplace component is essential to developing occupational competence and must be appropriately supervised and documented.
Assessment and Certification
Learners undergo internal assessments throughout their knowledge, practical and workplace modules.
To enter the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA), learners must have successfully completed the prescribed Knowledge, Practical Skills and Work Experience modules and meet the applicable QCTO requirements.
Competence in the EISA is required for certification.
The qualification also provides a strong foundation for self-employment and the establishment of a plumbing services business
Artisan Launcher
may work with approved workplace partners to provide learners with access to appropriate occupational experience where required.
Learners maintain the prescribed workplace evidence and records throughout this component.
Assessment takes place throughout the programme and includes:
Learners must successfully complete the prescribed knowledge, practical and workplace components before progressing to the external assessment process.
The final external assessment is conducted through an accredited Trade Test Centre in accordance with the applicable QCTO and trade requirements.
The external assessment evaluates whether the learner can integrate and practically apply the knowledge and skills required to operate competently as a plumber.
The registered qualification specifies an external assessment involving examination and practical tasks conducted at an accredited assessment/trade test centre.
Training at Artisan Launcher → Knowledge Modules → Practical Skills Modules → Workplace Experience Modules → Statement of Results confirming all required components → External Assessment / Trade Test at a QCTO-accredited Trade Test Centre → QCTO Certification as a qualified Plumber