Stonemason

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Stonemason. A Stonemason acquires, designs, cuts and shapes hard and soft stone blocks and masonry slabs to construct and renovate stone into different stone products (structures and monumental masonry). A qualified learner will be able to: • Prepare (draw and design) the stone to prescribed shapes. • Cut and shape stone to different products designs and shapes. • Conduct finishing works for stone products.

Currently, there is no existing qualification relevant to produce qualified stonemasons. The qualification will enable the current and future practitioners acquire specialised skills from focused and structured training. This qualification is important to address the skills of the current and future employees serving within sectors employing stonemasons. The industry will draw the learners from the cohort of current employees who performed the function without recognised qualification. The country has a serious problem of high unemployment impacting negatively on the youth in particular. Acquisition of this qualification will enhance personal esteem for current practitioner and restore the dignity of those who practiced without qualification. The development of this qualification was steered and drew inspiration from the participation of National Funerals Directors Association, National Association of South African Undertakers, South African Funeral Practitioner Association, National Undertakers Association of South African and Funeral Industry Practitioners of South African. All these associations participated directly or through submission of inputs where necessary. Learners who acquire this qualification have ample opportunities to perfect their trade within such field as mining, construction, art, funeral services and manufacturing. The learners will be able to practice as entrepreneurs within construction (manufacturing kitchen tops and tombstones), Craft Producers, tiling and bricklaying.

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: • An NQF Level 2 qualification with Mathematics and Science.

• Prepare and cut different types of stones to different designs and shape.
• Demonstrate various skills in finishing works to complete the stone product to specification.