Boat Builder and Repairer (Shipbuilder)

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Shipbuilder. A shipbuilder builds and repairs marine vessels by constructing sections, superstructures, and components by means of fabricating a variety of items, performing activities that include but not limited to, cutting and joining, forming and shaping, aligning and assembling, erecting and positioning, utilising steels, metals, alloys, timber and composites to build, repair, modify and alter ships/vessels. A Shipbuilder will be able to: • Fabricate sections, superstructures, component parts and items. • Repair, refurbish and renew structures and parts. • Plan and execute ship/vessel repair processes. • Co-ordinate, section assemblies and positioning of structures and items.

The shipbuilding manufacturing industry is a complex and a specialised one. South Africa is making strides in becoming recognised as an emerging ship building country, and vessels of various sizes and structures have been constructed over the years, primarily for state organisations such as the SA Navy and Transnet. The country is also known for its ship repair capabilities. The emergence of South Africa as a cost effective supplier to international markets has created a demand for people with the skills to build ships as well as to perform support functions in shipbuilding, manufacturing process. These processes include design and construction, metalwork, welding, fitting, complying with international shipbuilding standards, installing and maintaining marine mechanical and electrical systems. This qualification will enable learners to: • Develop their existing skill level and progress vertically in a selected career path within the shipbuilding industry. • Receive recognition for experience gained in the workplace through an RPL process. • Obtain skills and knowledge that is portable within similar manufacturing industries. • Gain access to higher levels of knowledge and to the provision of training facilities. • Access opportunities to progress in their personal life and career and add value to the operations in which they function. • Contribute to the growth of the South African economic and social environments. The learning pathway as developed in the curriculum addresses the full skills requirements of the shipbuilding sector and will prepare qualifying learners for the broad range of activities that must be undertaken by the competent, shipbuilder whilst at the same time providing a sound base for further learning. People working in the shipbuilding sector require validation of their skills and experience through access to formal qualifications and standards. The qualification affirms the experiences of shipbuilding through the Recognition of Prior Learning, credit accumulation, and achievement of competencies. It also provides learners with opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the broader manufacturing environment.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record. RPL for access to the qualification Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: • NQF Level 4 with mathematics and science.

• Fabricate sections, superstructures, component parts and items.
• Repair, refurbish and renew structures and parts.
• Plan and execute ship/vessel repair processes.
• Co-ordinate, assemblies section and position of structures and items.