Sewing Machine Operator

The purpose of this qualification is to equip a learner with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate as a Sewing Machine Operator. A qualified learner will be able to: • Interpret an in-company work instruction in order to determine the requirements of the tasks to be performed. • Plan work and prepare the workstation for sewing within the ambit of the team. • Set up the sewing machine and select the correct equipment, materials and work aids to meet the requirements of the customer specifications. • Maximise safety and productivity according to in-company standards. • Recognise processing faults and quality of finished sewn product and inspect them to avoid rework and rejects. • Perform a sewing operation that meeting customer standards.

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 requirements for the Occupational Certificate: Sewing Machine Operator qualification is NQF Level 1 or 3 years' experience as a Sewing Machine Operator.

The Sewing Machine Operator Occupational Certificate is designed for employees who have been operating in the industry without the recognition for competencies they have acquired in the workplace over a period of time. This qualification has been designed in line with the national government's initiative aimed at addressing the lack of infrastructure, skills and by investing in this sector in order to uplift the domestic market share and exports including global competitiveness. The government also aims to ensure sustainability of the business environment that is able to continuously retain and grow employment levels. Possible areas of employment include clothing, home textile, and leather goods manufacturing companies, including self-employment.

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 requirements for the Occupational Certificate: Sewing Machine Operator qualification is NQF Level 1 or 3 years' experience as a Sewing Machine Operator.

• Interpret an in-company work instruction to determine the requirements of the tasks to be performed.
• Plan work and prepare the workstation for sewing within the ambit of the team.
• Set up the sewing machine and select the correct equipment, materials and work aids to meet the requirements of the customer specifications.
• Maximise safety and productivity according to the in-company standards.
• Recognise processing faults and the quality of finished sewn products by inspecting the sewn products in order to avoid rework and rejects.
• Competently operate any one of two machines, namely lock-stitch and over-lock machine, to produce sewn component parts.
• Perform a sewing operation that meets customer standards.