Artisan Occupational Qualification
: Trade Test
: 36 Months
: Blended Learning, Practical Workshop Training and Workplace Experience
The Occupational Certificate: Welder prepares learners to become skilled welding artisans capable of joining metal components according to prescribed welding procedures, specifications and quality standards.
The programme combines theoretical knowledge with extensive hands-on workshop training and structured workplace experience. Learners develop competence in different welding processes, cutting and gouging techniques, fabrication, welding inspection, occupational health and safety and the production of fillet, plate and pipe welds.
Welders are employed across a wide range of industries including engineering, manufacturing, mining, construction, petrochemical operations, power generation and metal fabrication.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be considered where applicants have relevant previous education, training or workplace experience.
The programme develops knowledge and practical competence in:
The qualification consists of three integrated components:
Knowledge Modules – 81 Credits
The theoretical principles, calculations, materials, processes, safety requirements and standards associated with welding.
Practical Skills Modules – 140 Credits
Hands-on training in fabrication, cutting, gouging, gas welding, fillet welding, plate welding and pipe welding using different welding processes.
Work Experience Modules – 152 Credits
Structured workplace experience where learners perform welding-related tasks under workplace conditions and build evidence of occupational competence.
Blended Learning
Practical training is a major component of this qualification. Learners will be required to demonstrate their ability to safely set up and use welding equipment and produce welds that meet prescribed standards.
Practical activities include cutting and preparing materials, welding different joints and positions, handling consumables, inspecting welds and applying safe workshop procedures.
Learners require structured workplace exposure covering activities such as:
Workplace activities are recorded and verified as part of the learner's occupational development.
Assessment and Certification
Learners complete internal knowledge and practical assessments throughout the programme.
Once all prescribed components have been successfully completed, eligible learners progress to the external trade assessment process. The qualification's external summative assessment is a Trade Test.
Experienced welders may progress into specialised welding, inspection, supervision and related engineering fields.
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 welder.
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 / Workshop Training → Workplace Experience Modules → Statement of Results confirming completion of all required modules and workplace experience → Trade Test at a QCTO-accredited Trade Test Centre → QCTO Trade Certification as a Qualified Welder