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Overview

DescriptionThe apprenticeship system is a well known technical training system, including practical and theoretical components offered in designated trades to achieve artisan status.
ConditionsChamber
AutoMetalMotor
    • Minimum entry age – 16 years
    • Grade 10 English, Afrikaans, Maths and 2 other subjects or N1 with trade theory
    • Minimum entry age – 16 years
    • Grade 9 English or Afrikaans, Maths or Science and 2 other subjects or 4-subject N1 with trade theory
    • Minimum entry age – 16 years
    • Grade 10 Afrikaans, English, Maths and at least 1 other subject
Period of apprenticeshipChamber
AutoMetalMotor
    • A minimum of 26 weeks on-the-job
    • A maximum of 4 years
    • A minimum of 80 weeks (Subject to the completion of all the modules)
    • A maximum of four years
    • Determined by each trade and level - CBMT
    • Spraypainter – 3 Levels
    • Motor Mechanic – 4 levels
    • Automotive body repairer – 4 Levels
    • Automotive machinist – 4 levels - Time based
    • With the exception of Diesel Fuel injection technician and Vehicle Body builder, all other time based trades have a minimum of 85 weeks practical training. Motor time based apprentices have a 4 years contracts with an automatic extension of an additional year.
    • Diesel Fuel injection technician and Vehicle Body builder has a minimum of 72 weeks practical training prior to trade test
    • Grade 10 Afrikaans, English, Maths and at least 1 other subject
Apprentice wagesChamber
AutoMetalMotor
    • A percentage of the artisan minimum rate as determined by the industry bargaining council per level (4 levels)
    • Determined by the industry bargaining council annually.
    • Determined by the industry bargaining council per level (four levels)
Process
    • Training Centre is accredited by merSETA to undertake apprenticeship training.
    • Employer is approved by merSETA ETQA to undertake apprentice training.
    • An Employer/Company will advertise for apprentices using the media platform of their choice.
    • Prospective candidates may apply following the process indicated in the advertisement.
    • Training centre and employer provide relevant training and workplace exposure to apprentice.
    • Apprentice is indentured in a designated trade in terms of the Manpower Training Act provisions.
    • A contract is signed by the employer and apprentice (guardian if under 21 years of age)
    • A 4 subject N2 with the relevant trade theory has to be completed. Employer pays for classes and examination fees at the technical college.
    • Training schedules/declarations are completed. Remission of time and exemptions are possible with merSETA approval.
    • Trade test application is made with merSETA once all relevant training has been completed.
    • Qualification by national trade test at a merSETA-accredited trade test centre.
    • If successful, awarded with a National Trade Test certificate and the apprentice is deemed to be a qualified artisan.
Grants from merSETAContact the merSETA regional office for details on discretionary grants.
Tax rebatesA tax rebate for employers can also be claimed from SARS.

Apprenticeship contract changes

With effect from 1 April 2007, all employers indenturing apprentices are required to ensure that:

  • Two original apprenticeship contracts are signed
  • All contracting parties must initial every page of the contracts
  • A medical certificate must accompany the contracts. (N.B. The cost of the medical examination is borne by the employer)
  • Certified copies of the identity document and highest school certificate must accompany the contracts.