SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Footwear Designer 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
104882  Occupational Certificate: Footwear Designer 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - FPMSETA (MANUF) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Engineering and Related Design 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  373  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0425/24  2021-07-01  2025-12-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-30   2029-12-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of the Occupational Certificate: Footwear Designer is to prepare the learner to operate as a Footwear Designer.

A Footwear Designer conceptualises, designs, develops footwear and related products for manufacture, and prepares footwear designs and specifications of footwear products for mass, batch and once-off production.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Research footwear design concepts and the market to determine the financial viability of a footwear product.
  • Conceptualise footwear designs to address the market need and rethink the footwear design concept based on feedback received by reapplying the processes if necessary.
  • Produce footwear samples (sample manufacturing) and manufacturing and technical specifications to ensure design specifications are met and maintained during bulk production processes.

    Rationale:
    The process of footwear manufacturing starts with a Footwear design that is feasible, cost effective and simultaneously novel, and aesthetically appealing to the target market. Footwear Designers conceptualise, create and showcase shoe designs for a variety of markets, designing shoes for particular ages, genders, careers or environments, footwear for senior citizens, women, nurses and rock-climbing are just a few examples. Many Footwear Designers will specialise in designing certain types of footwear, such as boots, athletic shoes, dress shoes, or sandals.

    Footwear designers must grasp fashion trends, as well as a thorough understanding of the industrial design and manufacturing process. They apply artistic skills like drawing, an eye for colour and knowledge of textures and fabrics when developing different types of footwear. A grasp of podiatry and biomechanics is also required because shoes often perform particular functions (such as running shoes), a grasp of podiatry and biomechanics is also required.

    Full-time footwear designers can find employment with corporate shoe manufacturers, retailers and boutique footwear design companies, but could also pursue freelance work or entrepreneurial ventures.

    Footwear manufacturing companies will benefit from artistic, creative footwear designers and the development of novel and aesthetically appealing summer and winter footwear ranges which set the trend and are becoming internationally competitive. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    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:
  • NQF Level 4 with Communication and Mathematical Literacy.
    Or
  • 4 years of experience as a Footwear Designer.
    Or
  • 5 years of experience as a Footwear pattern engineer. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules.

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 216304-000-00-KM-01, Footwear and the human foot, Level 5, 14 Credits.
  • 216304-000-00-KM-02, Footwear materials and production processes, Level 5, 35 Credits.
  • 216304-000-00-KM-03, Footwear and footwear product research, Level 6, 15 Credits.
  • 216304-000-00-KM-04, Footwear design theory, Level 6, 43 Credits.
  • 216304-000-00-KM-05, Footwear design presentation, Level 6, 15 Credits.
  • 216304-000-00-KM-06, Footwear marketing and branding, Level 5, 22 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 144.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 216304-000-00-PM-01, Produce a research report with sufficient research data on the marketability, financial and technical viability of the design concept, Level 5, 30 Credits.
  • 216304-000-00-PM-02, Conceptualise the footwear design concept and produce finalised footwear designs, Level 6, 72 Credits.
  • 216304-000-00-PM-03, Adjust footwear design concepts based on feedback, Level 6, 5 Credits.
  • 216304-000-00-PM-04, Produce prototypes according to production specifications within the budget of the customer, limitations on materials and trims, colour combinations, materials and substances, Level 5, 42 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 149.

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 216304-000-00-WM-01, Company footwear production processes, Level 5, 15 Credits.
  • 216304-000-00-WM-02, Footwear product and market research, Level 6, 14 Credits.
  • 216304-000-00-WM-03, Footwear product and range development, Level 6, 36 Credits.
  • 216304-000-00-WM-04, Footwear prototyping and specifications for manufacturing, Level 5, 15 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 80. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Interpret a design brief and research market (price, demand, fashion, trends, customer profile), manufacturing ability and costing of the Footwear Design concept and analyse information to determine the viability of the footwear product.
    2. Assess the creative and artistic ability in the Footwear Design concept and transfer creativity onto paper by producing a Footwear Design concept and constructing a prototype.
    3. Justify the Footwear Design concept within parameters (base, market demand, manufacturing capability, and cost) and present to the internal or external customer.
    4. Compile design specifications for the manufacturing of the footwear indicating materials, components and manufacturing processes and present to production for manufacturing. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Understand basic research concepts and principles for Footwear Design, manufacturing and product viability.
  • Analyse a design brief for footwear to determine parameters set by the (internal and/or external) customer.
  • Conduct research to determine the market, demand and target group in the specific price bracket, manufacturability of the factory, availability, and cost of raw materials and components, etc.
  • Analyse research data, identify trends, and determine footwear product viability.
  • Compile a research report on the Footwear Design concept, indicating research findings, including reflection on alterations made throughout the Footwear Design process.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Apply design and footwear construction principles and concepts; conceptualise an idea/concept for a Footwear Design; determine and present the parameters of the footwear product by sketching and applying the research information to the design concept.
  • Determine the properties of the last (i.e, toe shape, heel height), and decide on and select a suitable last, and other design aspects, such as a heel or bottom unit for the design, trims, materials, accents and components.
  • Expand the footwear concept/idea into a range, ensuring that variations collaborate with the complete look.
  • Manufacture the prototype and assess for conforming to the brief, quality and price, and conduct a foot fit session to ensure a snug and comfortable fit of the footwear.
  • Assess the shape of the toe of the last and the aesthetic appearance of the Footwear Design concept.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Present the expanded concept (a range of six footwear styles) as detailed pencil sketches supported by a storyboard with samples as per the brief.
  • Sketch the concept, put onto paper, and present a detailed (coloured) three-dimensional rendering to showcase the six styles.
  • Estimate the costing projections on a footwear product and market price, and determine its viability.
  • Present the rendering to internal (material buyers, production, technical manager, finance) and/or external customers, receive feedback and adjust the design concept based on feedback.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Finalise the Footwear Design concept by prescribing final footwear upper materials, finishes, components and consumables to be used.
  • Specify manufacturing processes (closing, lasting, making, and finishing processes) which are relevant to the product, e.g. finishing treatments.
  • Specify design detail and special instructions.
  • Prescribe branding and packaging according to customer brief.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated Formative Assessment:
    The skills development provider will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the integrated external summative assessment.

    Integrated Summative Assessment:
    An external Integrated Summative Assessment, conducted through the relevant Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) Assessment Quality Partner is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external Integrated Summative Assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Occupational Certificate: Footwear Designer was compared with three qualifications, namely:
  • Footwear Foundation Degree by the Leicester College in the United Kingdom.
  • Several short programmes in Footwear Design offered by the Arsutoria Institute, Italy.
  • Short Course-Diploma in Footwear Designing and Manufacturing Technology-offered by the Sri Lanka Institute of Textile and Apparel.

    United Kingdom:
    The Leicester College in the United Kingdom presents a two-year Footwear Foundation Degree that has a strong focus on work-based learning. The course covers a broad spectrum of footwear industry-related topics such as:
  • Footwear fashion and design.
  • Production technology.
  • Footwear buying.
  • Supply and management skills.
  • Style prediction and marketing strategies.
  • Manufacturing technology.
  • Professional development.
  • Product design and development.

    Italy:
    The Arsutoria Institute presents several short courses in Footwear Design aimed at people interested in learning the basics of shoe design. This course focuses on:
  • Hand Sketching-the basic concepts of the construction and hand drawing of different styles of footwear.
  • Use of Footwear Design software-creating technical drawings and illustrations of footwear.
  • Collection development-from market analysis to the application of the important activities of merchandising is addressed.
  • Communicating the idea-students work as a team to design collections within a recreated atmosphere of a typical style/product office of a footwear company.
  • Pattern Making-the main classic measures, traditional proportions and correct style lines for every type of basic men and women's shoes.
  • Prototyping-put into practice the techniques they have learned, and they are required to develop one or two prototypes.

    Sri Lanka:
    The Diploma in Footwear Designing and Manufacturing Technology is offered by the Sri Lanka Institute of Textile and Apparel.

    The Diploma places emphasis on theoretical and practical knowledge in Footwear Designing and manufacturing and includes institutional sessions and industry-based tasks.

    The objective of this course is to provide opportunities for those who wish to embark on a career in the footwear industry and for the employees in footwear manufacturing who wish to enhance their knowledge for career development. The course includes:
  • Leather and Footwear manufacturing technology: This includes material identification, pattern cutting, shoe upper making (ladies, gents), and lasting and finishing.
  • Leather and Footwear production management: This includes soft skill development, best practices of industrial engineering, machine and equipment technology, energy saving and productivity improvement.
  • Leather and Footwear Designing technology: This includes sketching, shoe pattern construction (ladies, gents), sample making, pattern grading and costing and factory visits.
    Quality management for Leather and Footwear Industry: This includes Total Quality Management (TQM) tools, cost of quality, quality standards and quality services for Leather and Footwear.
    The course concludes with the submission of a final project and an evaluation test.

    Conclusion:
    The Occupational Certificate: Footwear Designer compares favourably with the above qualifications in terms of content and best practices. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation is possible with the following:
  • Diploma: Fashion Design, National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 06.

    Vertical Articulation is possible with the following:
  • Advanced Diploma: Fashion Design and Technology, NQF Level 07. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Integrated Summative Assessment:
    In order to qualify for the external summative assessment, learners must have a copy of a completed and signed Statement of Work Experience as well as proof of successful completion of the required subjects and modules or alternative programmes where applicable. Foundational Learning Competence is not required.

    Additional Legal or Physical Entry Requirements:
  • None.

    Criteria for the Accreditation of Providers:
    Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) website.

    The curriculum title and code is:
  • Footwear Designer: 216304-000-00-00.

    Encompassed Trades:
    This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the National Learners' Records Database (NLRD):
  • This is not a trade qualification.

    Part Qualifications:
  • None.

    Assessment Quality Partner:
    The Fibre Processing and Manufacturing (FP&M) SETA. 
    		•

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.