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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Pattern Grader 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
115509  Occupational Certificate: Pattern Grader 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - FPMSETA (MAN) 
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  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  85  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 04170/20  2020-02-26  2025-02-26 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-02-26   2029-02-26  

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:
A Pattern Grader grades a set of constructed patterns for different size garments applying a sizing system while maintaining the proportions and look of the garment.

Rationale:
This part-qualification equips learners with the necessary skills and competence to operate as a Pattern Grader. A Pattern Grader can grade a set of constructed patterns in different sizes through the application of a sizing system and a grading system. Qualifying learners will be skilled and capable of analysing a base pattern and applying the appropriate sizing system and sizing chart, grading rules and grading methods to grade a set of patterns, using both traditional and modern techniques, materials and fabrics to produce aesthetically pleasing and fit for purpose consumer products.

Learners will find employment as Pattern Graders. These skills will also open opportunities for self­ employment.

Target groups identified include school leavers with an NQF Level 4 qualification or persons working in the clothing industry without formal qualifications and has the desire to formalise their skills and knowledge.

Employers will benefit from appointing qualified workers in terms of increased productivity and the ability to be competitive in the international market and seek markets abroad, supplying quality manufactured apparel articles. 

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 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 4 with Mathematical Literacy.
    Or
  • NQF Level 1 (AET Level 4) with a minimum of three years' assessed experience as a pattern grader. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skills and Work Experience Modules:
    Knowledge Modules:
  • 683202-003-00-00-KM-01, Introduction to Fashion, Garment Design, Pattern-making and Grading, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 683202-003-00-00-KM-02, Raw Materials and Manufacturing of Clothing, Level 4, 8 Credits.
  • 683202-003-00-00-KM-06, Pattern Grading Principles, and Methods, Level 4, 15 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 27.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 683202-003-00-00-PM-05, Construct a Set of Graded Patterns according to the Sizing System, Level 4, 30Credits.

    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 30.

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 683202-003-00-00-WM-05, Pattern Grading Operations, Level 4, 28 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 28. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Measure, calculate and apply formulae in pattern grading operations.
    2. Explain the grading principles and methods to be applied during the pattern grading process.
    3. Scrutinise and interpret patterns and apply information and specifications to grading operations.
    4. Grade patterns of various sizes and shapes for different sizes using various grading methods. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Describe the application of grading formulae and calculations.
  • Explain the importance of accurate body measurements.
  • Explain the application of sizing system and sizing charts.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Explain pattern-making and grading terminology and definitions.
  • Describe and sequence pattern-making and grading processes.
  • Define and justify the pattern-making principles and the application thereof.
  • Explain the features of design such as pattern pieces, construction requirements and garment style and the effect thereof.
  • Compare and contrast various grading methods.
  • Explain the type of records and the importance of record-keeping in the pattern grading process.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Check pattern pieces in preparation for the grading to prevent grading distortions.
  • Interpret the size chart correctly to prevent grading faults.
  • Inspect graded patterns ensuring a good fit of pattern pieces and correct positioning of nips and notches.
  • Recognise incorrect nesting of pattern pieces.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Grade pattern manually using patternmaking technical skills.
  • Preserve the integrity of pattern attributes such as darts, notches, shape and design proportion during grading.
  • Check the pattern for accuracy and rectify or address as required.
  • Maintain proportions during the grading process.
  • Lable all pattern pieces accurately with all necessary pattern marking symbols such as grain lines, darts, slits, job seams, seam allowance.

    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:
    The relevant QCTO Assessment Quality Partner conducts an external integrated summative assessment for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This part-qualification compares with components of two qualifications, namely the:
  • Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Technology (Australia) (Level 5).
  • New Zealand Diploma in Apparel and Fashion Technology (Level 5).

    New Zealand:
    The New Zealand Diploma in Apparel and Fashion Technology (Level 5) is 120 Credits and prepares the learner for the apparel and fashion manufacturing sector with advanced technical skills in patternmaking and garment construction and production to meet the requirements of the company and the customer.

    The comparison revealed that New Zealand and South African qualifications are similar in content, level, and complexity about the following qualification outcomes and related specified conditions:
  • Make, adapt, grade, and adjust flat patterns to fit for a range of structured and unstructured garments.
  • Manually grade flat patterns in a range of sizes.
  • Apply knowledge of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) to a range of structured and unstructured garments.
  • Digitise and grade patterns.

    Australia:
    A comparison with the Australian Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Technology (Level 5) revealed similarities in content and complexity of competencies. The Australian qualification includes the following aspects, which is similar to the South African qualification:
  • LMTFD4013B: Grade 2D patterns.
  • LMTFD4018B: Use and apply sizing systems appropriate for fashion design.
  • LMTFD5016B: Grade shaped patterns.
  • LMTGN2009B: Operate computing technology in a Textiles, Clothing and Footwear workplace.

    Conclusion:
  • This part-qualification compares favourably with the components of the compared qualifications in terms of content and complexity. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification offers the following horizontal and vertical articulation opportunities.

    Horizontal:
  • Occupational Certificate: Pattern Making Assistant, Level 4.

    Vertical:
    This qualification articulates vertically with the following qualifications:
  • Occupational Certificate: Apparel Pattern Maker and Grader, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Assessment:
  • In order to qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules using statements of results and work experience records including, where applicable, the Foundational Learning Competence.

    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 QCTO website.

    The curriculum title and code is: Pattern Grader: 683202001-000-00-04.

    Encompassed Trades:
  • This part-qualification is not a trade qualification.

    Assessment Quality Partner (AQP):
  • Fibre, Processing and Manufacturing Sector Education Training Authority (FP&M SETA).

    PARENT QUALIFICATION:
  • 683202-003-00-00, Apparel Pattern Maker and Grader, Level 5, 291 Credits.

    PART QUALIFICATIONS REGISTERED AS PART QUALIFICATIONS:
  • 683202-003-00-01, Pattern Making Assistant, Level 4.
  • 683202-003-00-02, Garment Pattern Development Assistant, Level 5.
  • 683202-003-00-03, Apparel Pattern Designer Assistant, Level 5. 
    		•

    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.