Panel Beater

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Panel Beater. A Panel Beater repairs damage to metal and composites (including fibre glass, rubber, and plastic) on vehicles and forms replacement body panels. A qualified learner will be able to: • Perform automotive body repairs. • Remove and refit automotive mechanical components. • Perform auto-electrical repair activities. • Analyse damage to vehicles.

The panel beating (automotive body repair) industry is characterised by fast and ever-increasing technological developments and innovations in terms of vehicle manufacturing and concomitant body repair methods. This necessitates that an occupational qualification be developed so that learners entering this field of learning are introduced to this new technology at an early stage of their careers. The work of panel beaters is critical to the economy and they provide an incredibly valuable service since motor vehicles are a substantial part of human life in South Africa. n addition, the panel beaters' job is becoming increasingly complex as they have to increasingly deal with electronic and electrical related aspects of the vehicle such as cameras, sensors, GPS systems, on-board computers, bus systems, electronic control devices and safety restraint systems. Typical learners are school leavers, Further Education and Training College learners or workers who have been employed in the automotive body repair environment. Learners who qualify with this qualification will have the option of acquiring the Vehicle Painting qualification to become all-rounders - who can repair vehicle bodies and paint them. Furthermore, they could also acquire the Vehicle Damage Quantifier qualification to become vehicle damage quantifiers or assessors or they could pursue a management qualification at a higher level and, after gaining considerable experience, they could progress in the industry as managers in auto-body shops or in the related environment. Some could continue and eventually establish their own enterprises.

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: Learners are required to have the following in place in order to be considered for admission: • NQF Level 2 qualification with Mathematics.

• Interpret and motivate the application of key recognised theories and processes related to panel beating.
• Analyse damage against the job card.
• Strip, reassemble and refit trim, body panels, and mechanical and auto-electrical components.
• Perform major auto-body repairs.
• Perform Minor Auto-body repairs.