SAQA Qualification · 116130
Locksmith
R70 000
(Once-off Institutional License Fee)
Professional Role & Capability Blueprint
- Target Designation
- Certified Locksmith Practitioner
- Competency Focus
- Master specialised practical applications, safety criteria, and regulatory mandates required of a qualified Locksmith.
- Academic Weight
- Full national recognition at NQF Level 4 yielding 545 credits upon successful PoE verification.
Strategic Institutional Purpose
- Audit Objective
- Formulated to systematically bridge operational skills deficits under the governing NAMB quality matrix.
- Value Proposition
- Equips your workforce with measurable, legally compliant skills to optimise productivity, satisfy Workplace Skills Plans (WSP), and unlock maximum B-BBEE scorecard weight.
Who is this for
Who should enrol? Individuals with some work experience or prior learning who wish to formalise their skills and advance their careers. The Locksmith welcomes learners from diverse backgrounds, including those with limited formal education but relevant practical experience. The flexible learning approach ensures that everyone can progress at their own pace while achieving the same high standard of competence.
Qualification Rules · Module Matrix
Official SAQA module breakdown parsed from the qualification's registered rules.
Knowledge Modules (KM)
119 crTheory · 15 modules
- 652203-000-01-00-KM-012 cr
Legislative Requirements within the Locksmithing Industry
NQF Level 2
- 652203-000-00-00-KM-033 cr
Trade Related and Engineering Tools and Instruments
NQF Level 2
- 652203-000-00-00-KM-0415 cr
Key Duplicating Principles
NQF Level 2
- 652203-000-00-00-KM-065 cr
Installation of Locks
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-KM-073 cr
Maintenance and Calibration of Key Machines
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-KM-085 cr
Welding, Brazing and Silver Soldering
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-KM-095 cr
Master Key Systems
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-KM-1010 cr
Originating Keys, Opening Locks, Automotive Locks and Picking
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-KM-115 cr
Opening and Restoring the Security of Non-category Safes
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-KM-1210 cr
Duplicating a Variety of Keys using Electronic Machines
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-KM-138 cr
Opening and Restoring the Security of Categorized Safes
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-KM-1415 cr
Transponders Coding using On-Board Diagnostics (OBD)
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-KM-1515 cr
Programming Transponders Using Eprom
NQF Level 5
- 652203-000-00-00-KM-1615 cr
Electronic Locks and Access Control
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-KM-173 cr
CCTV, Gate Motors and Intercom Systems
NQF Level 2
Practical Skill Modules (PM)
154 crApplied · 19 modules
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-015 cr
Select, Use and Maintain Hand, Measuring and/or Power Tools
NQF Level 2
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-025 cr
Maintain Key Cutting Machines
NQF Level 2
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-035 cr
Duplicate Keys
NQF Level 2
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-045 cr
Install a Variety of Mechanical Locking Mechanisms
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-0510 cr
Apply Methods to Open Locks
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-0610 cr
Originate Automotive Non- transponder Keys
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-0715 cr
Originate Keys to Locking Mechanisms
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-085 cr
Install and Repair Locking Systems and Mechanisms into Steel Structures
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-095 cr
Render Locksmithing Services
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-109 cr
Open and Restore the Security of Non-categorized Safe
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-1110 cr
Cut Keys to Code using Electronic Machines and Software
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-1210 cr
Duplicate Transponder Keys
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-1310 cr
Install CCTV, Gate Motors and Intercoms Systems
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-1410 cr
Install Electronic Locks and Access Control Systems
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-1510 cr
Programme Transponders to Immobilizer Boxes and Engine Control Unit (ECU)
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-1610 cr
Programme Transponders using Diagnostic Equipment
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-1710 cr
Open and Restore the Security of Categorized Safe
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-185 cr
Originate Transponder Automotive Keys
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-PM-195 cr
Design Master Key System
NQF Level 4
Work Experience Modules (WM)
205 crSite · 14 modules
- 652203-000-00-00-WM-0115 cr
Key Cutting Duplication and Maintenance of Key Cutting Machines
NQF Level 2
- 652203-000-00-00-WM-0310 cr
Applying a Variety of Methods to Open Locks
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-WM-0515 cr
Originating Keys
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-WM-065 cr
Installing and Repairing Locking Systems and Mechanisms into Steel Structures
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-WM-075 cr
Rendering Locksmithing Services
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-WM-0810 cr
Opening and Restoring the Security of Non-categorized Safes
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-WM-0915 cr
Cutting Keys to Code using Electronic Machines and Software
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-WM-1010 cr
Duplicating and Cloning Transponder Keys
NQF Level 3
- 652203-000-00-00-WM-1120 cr
Originating Transponder Automotive Keys
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-WM-1210 cr
Installing CCTV, Gate and Garage Door Motors and Intercoms Systems
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-WM-1310 cr
Installing Electronic Locking Systems
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-WM-1430 cr
Programming Transponders to Immobilizer Boxes and ENGINE Control Unit (ECU)
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-WM-1520 cr
Programming Transponders using Diagnostic Equipment
NQF Level 4
- 652203-000-00-00-WM-1630 cr
Opening and Restoring the Security of Categorized Safe
NQF Level 4
Official SAQA Curriculum
Source of truth · SAQA ID 116130 · Field 08 - Law, Military Science and Security › Safety in Society
Purpose▾
The purpose of this trade qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Locksmith. A Locksmith engages in any activity or business which is related to the opening, closing, originating, programming and repairing of locking mechanisms of any nature, by means of appropriate specialised tools or devices. A qualified learner will be able to: • Duplicate keys. • Originate keys and service locking mechanisms. • Sell products, secure premises and advise clients. • Install locking systems. • Initiate and programme transponders. • Open and restore the integrity of safes.
Rationale▾
The key-cutting and locksmithing industry is supported by very strict rules and therefore requires appropriately trained and competent practitioners. Qualified learners are required to register with the Private Security Industry Regulating Authority (PSIRA). The locksmithing industry is constantly changing with regards to technology and equipment. These changes require learners to receive specialised training related to the locksmithing industry. Consultations with the relevant industry stakeholders such as PSIRA, Locksmith Association of South Africa (LASA), School of Advanced Locksmithing were held prior to the realignment of this qualification. The development of this occupational qualification, which replaces the National Certificate in Locksmithing at NQF Level 3, will provide learners with the required knowledge and skills that will enable them to perform at the expected standard. Due to the fact that Locksmith is listed as a trade, learners who successfully complete this qualification will obtain the artisan status. The design of the newly revised occupational certificate has made provision for one (1) part qualification. This makes provision for learners who want to pursue a career within the locksmithing industry as Key Cutters. This qualification is aimed at both new entrants and learners that are currently working within the locksmithing industry. Upon completion of the qualification, learners can operate as locksmiths within the security sector in areas such as key cutting, automotive, electronic, safes and vaults and lock installations. Learners who successfully complete the qualification will enhance their careers by enrolling in higher level programmes or qualification. In so doing, they will be equipped with knowledge and skills that will empower them to take more responsibilities and/or higher-level positions within the respective organisations or create more opportunities for entrepreneurship. Learners can take supervisory or management roles within organisations, or business ownership roles which may require further study in business management. The availability of qualified Locksmiths will ensure growth within the sector thereby adding value towards the economic growth.
Learning Assumed to be in Place & RPL▾
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 results 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: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: • NQF Level 1 qualification with Mathematics and Physical Science.
Exit Level Outcomes▾
- Prepare for key-cutting operations.
- Implement key cutting and locksmithing practices.
- Apply key origination practices and installation of locks.
- Install electronic access control systems.
- Open and restore the integrity of safes.
Qualification 116130 · Curriculum Architecture
Occupational Certificate: Locksmith · NQF Level 4 (545 Credits)
Three Curriculum Pillars
Knowledge Modules
Classroom & E-Learning
- Facilitated lectures & self-study
- Written question banks
- Formative comprehension checks
Practical Skill Modules
Simulated Line Tasks
- Simulated line tasks
- Observation rubrics
- Structured task sheets
Work Experience Modules
On-the-Job Production
- On-the-job rotation
- Mentor logbooks
- Workplace sign-offs
Evidence & Audit Pipeline
Learner Portfolio of Evidence (PoE)Owner · Candidate▾
Admin & Registration
ID, learner contract, induction pack, POPIA consent.
Knowledge Evidence
Written assessments & question banks — KM-01 to KM-07.
Practical Evidence
Task sheets, observation rubrics, assessor photos.
Workplace Evidence
Logbooks, mentor sign-offs, supervisor letters.
Assessor Master FileOwner · Registered Assessor▾
Assessment Reports
Judgements, learner feedback, remediation agreements, appeals log.
Internal Moderation & Quality FileOwner · Moderator / SDP▾
Moderation Evidence
10% sampling matrix, HACCP/LOTO compliance sheets, SDP sign-off.
Final Accreditation Gateway
Issued by the accredited Skills Development Provider once internal moderation is signed off.
Provider submits declaration + PoE to the Assessment Quality Partner (AQP).
QCTO awards the SAQA-registered certificate on successful EISA outcome.
Learning Material Stack
Start-to-Exit Moderation Timeline
- 1
Pre-Delivery Setup
Facilitator induction, learner enrolment forms, baseline assessment, PoE folder issue. Alignment matrix stamped.
- 2
Delivery & Formative Moderation
Modular rollout with formative assessments per KM/PM. Internal moderator reviews evidence weekly; feedback loop before summatives.
- 3
Summative & External Moderation
Summative assessments captured, PoE finalised, submitted for external moderation. Certification uploaded to the SETA/QCTO.
Bespoke QMS Build
We author your Quality Management System — policies, procedures, records, matrices — mapped to your accreditation scope. From R18,500.
Talk QMS on WhatsAppModeration Consultation
External moderation dry-run on your PoE + delivery pack. Written report with fixes before your real audit. From R4,900.
Book Moderation SessionClassroom Transformation Blueprint
Broken Standard
- 📄Photocopied guides with mismatched outcomes
- ❔Missing formative/summative assessments
- ⚠️No SETA alignment matrix — audit fails
- 🎲Facilitators improvise Locksmith delivery
- 🕳️PoE gaps flagged in moderation
i2Graduates Transformation
- ✓15 KM + 19 PM + 14 WM modules mapped to NQF Level 4
- ✓Pre-validated assessment bank per module
- ✓NAMB alignment matrix included
- ✓Facilitator scripts + learner activities per credit
- ✓PoE templates that survive external moderation
The i2Graduates Quality Guarantee
Every page of this bundle is meticulously checked for sequence and structural perfection — no missing pages, no stolen content, no shortcuts. You get pre-validated assessment instruments ready to survive rigorous compliance moderation, wrapped in an engaging curriculum your facilitators will love teaching.