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Classic Trade Path vs Occupational Certificate

Comparing the traditional apprenticeship with the modern Occupational Certificate route.
Feature Classic Trade Path (Traditional) Occupational Certificate (Modern)
Entry Requirement Grade 12 with Mathematics and Physical Science Currently Grade 10 with Maths Literacy (moving toward Grade 9 level)
Initial Studies Complete N1 – N3 Engineering Studies (minimum N2 required) Enrol directly into an Occupational Certificate qualification (NQF Level 4)
Employment Secure employment upfront with a registered training provider company No employment required upfront to start studies
Contract Sign a 4-year apprenticeship contract Complete 12 months full-time study at Traincorp FET College
Training Structure
  • • ±4 months at TVET College (theory)
  • • ±4 months at Technical Training Centre (practical)
  • • Remaining time in the workplace
  • • All theory (knowledge modules) completed at college
  • • All practical training (practical modules) completed at college
Workplace Phase Workplace training runs throughout the apprenticeship After college, student must secure workplace placement
Trade Test Readiness Apply for trade test after minimum 2–4 years Complete 2 years workplace experience with logbook evidence
Preparation Attend ±6 weeks Trade Test Preparation Logbook and workplace experience are required for readiness
Assessment Complete Trade Test at an accredited centre Complete Trade Test at an accredited centre
Outcome Qualified Artisan Qualified Artisan
Certification Receives Trade Test Certificate only Receives Trade Test Certificate + Occupational Certificate (NQF Level 4)

Workplace Requirements

  • Employer: Must be a CIPC-registered company with a valid tax number.
  • Mentor: A qualified artisan in the specific trade must act as mentor and sign off the logbook.
  • Agreement: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) must be signed between the company and Traincorp FET College.

Traincorp Student Model

  • Students are non-contracted (private) students.
  • Students do not fall under government or SETA grant-funded apprenticeship systems.
  • Students follow an independent training pathway supported by Traincorp.

At Traincorp, we provide a flexible, structured Occupational Certificate pathway for private students — helping you gain the skills, experience, and qualifications needed to become a qualified artisan.

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