Feed Mill Operator

The purpose of this part-qualification is to prepare a learner to function as a Feed Mill Operator. A Feed Mill Operator attends to the safe and efficient operation of equipment, various production activities and achievement of product standards at the various stages in the production of mixed feeds. Typical graduate attributes for a Feed Mill Operator includes: attention to detail and quality, self-discipline, results driven, team work and ability to work without close supervision. A qualified learner will be able to: • conduct intake, storage and reclaim operations in a feed mill. • conduct mixed feed production operations in a feed mill. • conduct mixed feed processing operations in a feed mill.

The Feed Mill Operator part-qualification has been designed to address an industry need for qualified persons employed as Feed Mill Operators. The part-qualification will enhance the ability of the South African animal feed industry to improve its competitiveness in a highly competitive global market. This part-qualification opens up a career path in the feed milling industry starting at operator level and promotes labour mobility opportunities within mixed feed production facilities thereby achieving increased efficiencies and the production of quality, safe feed for animal consumption. Safe feeds for safe foods are at the heart of factors that contribute to food security. This is aligned with the strategic importance of the agricultural sector as an important driver of the South African economy. Target groups identified include those learners who did not complete the entire formal basic education with an NQF Level 3 qualification or persons who have been working as operators in mixed feed production related positions and have the desire to formalise their skills and knowledge. The career path leads toward operational management positions in the management structures of agricultural businesses. The Feed Mill Operator part-qualification is not a duplication or proliferation of another recognised qualification on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). There are no formal requirements of professional registration, membership or licencing for learners employed in Feed Mill Operator positions. The qualification was developed in collaboration with the feed millers' industry.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): • Learners will gain access to the qualification through RPL for Access as provided for in the RPL Policy of the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations. RPL for access is conducted by accredited education institution, skills development provider or workplace accredited to offer that specific qualification/part qualification. • Learners who have acquired competencies of the modules of a qualification or part-qualification will be exempted from modules through 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 results. Entry Requirements: • NQF Level 3 qualification.

• Demonstrate the conduct of intake, storage and reclaim of materials in a feed mill.
• Illustrate the conduct of mixed feed production processes in a feed mill.
• Show the conduct mixed feed processing operations in a feed mill.