Viticulture Worker

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Viticulture Farm Worker. A Viticulture Farm Worker performs viticultural activities in the production of quality table grapes, wine grapes and raisin grapes which are suitable for national and international markets by applying safety, quality, hygiene and technical standards. A qualified learner will be able to: • Perform routine activities for the establishment of a vineyard and the installation of trellising and irrigation systems. • Apply routine viticulture production and cultivation activities in an established vineyard and attend to basic vine health. • Harvest grapes complying with the applicable health, hygiene and safety standards during harvesting and post-harvesting tasks.

The Viticulture Farm Worker applies viticulture activities, such as pruning, harversting and general cultivation for the production of wine grapes, table grapes and grapes for dried fruit. Some of these activities, such as pruning is done at a critical time in the production cycle and has a direct impact on the quality of the produce. The viticulture industry is characterised by intensive labour practices. Since the quality of wine production in South Africa is determined by correct application of viticulture production processes in the vineyard, the importance of this qualification cannot be over emphasised. Increasing production and labour costs put pressure on producers to apply economically viable production processes which will contribute to the sustainability of the grape industry. Furthermore: • Wine, table grapes and raisin products form a large component of South African exports (90% in the case of table grapes), • The viticulture industry has considerable competition in the national and international market from other southern hemisphere countries; • The industry is regulated by stringent international standards and requirements; • There is a substantial imperative to remain competitive in the international market. The contextual background created a basis for development of the occupational qualification which requires skilled and specialised workers. The industry continues to maintain a competitive edge in 821101001 - Occupational Certificate: Viticulture Worker - version 5 Page 3 of 9 the global market. The viticulture industry as a huge employer of permanent and seasonal workers requires a labour force that is highly specialized and efficient to produce quality viticulture products for local and international markets. This qualification will ensure improved awareness of plant health, plant quality and the impact thereof on crops produced, especially for national and international markets and compliance with international standards. This qualification is aimed at learners in the viticultural sector who wish to pursue careers as viticulture workers, supervisors and horticultural foremen. Qualified learners are able to assist viticulture supervisors and foremen and will be able to contribute to the processes involved in the production of wine grapes, table grapes and grapes for raisins. The qualification provides the opportunity for those who have been employed in the sector to obtain recognition for their competencies. It will also attract school leavers to the viticulture sector to pursue a career within the broader agricultural industry. Industry bodies consulted during the development of this qualification included: • Fruit SA. • South African Table Grape Industry (SATI). • Hortgro. • Citrus Growers Association. • Subtrop. • Fruit Produce Exporters' Forum.

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: • NQF Level 1. Or • 3 years' experience in a vineyard.

• Plant vines according to the requirement of the cultivar.
• Conduct pruning activities according to the phenological stage of the vine and requirement of the cultivar and crop.
• Attend to basic vine health.
• Inspect the vineyard and equipment to identify wear and damage.
• Harvest crop in a vineyard.