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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: Tractor Mechanic |
| SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
| 117476 | Occupational Certificate: Tractor Mechanic | |||
| ORIGINATOR | ||||
| Development Quality Partner - QCTO (MANU) | ||||
| 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 | 543 | Not Applicable | NQF Level 04 | Regular-ELOAC |
| REGISTRATION STATUS | SAQA DECISION NUMBER | REGISTRATION START DATE | REGISTRATION END DATE | |
| Registered | EXCO 0522/24 | 2021-03-25 | 2025-12-31 | |
| LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT | LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT | |||
| 2026-12-31 | 2029-12-31 | |||
| 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 replaces: |
| Qual ID | Qualification Title | Pre-2009 NQF Level | NQF Level | Min Credits | Replacement Status |
| 14061 | Certificate: Tractor Mechanic | Level 4 | Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L4 | 120 | Complete |
| PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION |
| Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Tractor Mechanic. A Tractor Mechanic maintains, diagnoses and repairs tractors, agricultural machinery and components such as engines, mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, pneumatic and electronic systems according to specifications. A qualified learner will be able to: Rationale: A Tractor Mechanic is required to diagnose, service, maintain and repair tractors and associated machines. However, due to the complex nature of the tractor systems and components, the mechanic is now required to use technology to diagnose faults, repair and maintain tractor components, i.e. engines, transmissions, mechanical parts and hydraulically and/or electrically powered systems in an efficient and effective manner. Stakeholders involved in agricultural and manufacturing sectors were consulted and representatives participated in the realignment process. Stakeholders included AGRISETA, merSETA, agricultural cooperatives, Skills Development Providers, organised labour (NUMSA), government departments, agricultural equipment importers and distributors and farming enterprises. In modern agricultural processes the tractor and associated machines play a crucial role in ensuring food security, economic growth and sustainability within the country. Global challenges facing agricultural processes require that we have more effective and efficient ways of maintaining tractors and associated machines. Advancement in technology requires Tractor Mechanics to have additional knowledge and skills that will enable them to use modern communication technology, computerised equipment and relevant software tools to execute their tasks as Tractor Mechanics. This qualification is aimed at school leavers, TVET college students as well as learners who are currently employed in a mechanical workshop within industries such as motor, agriculture, construction and mining. Upon completion of the qualification, learners will be able to: diagnose, service, repair and/or replace and maintain mechanical, hydraulic, electrical systems and components of tractors and associated machines in any of these sectors: motor, agriculture, construction and mining. Possible learning career paths for this qualification are motor mechanic, small engine mechanic, diesel mechanic and heavy equipment mechanic. Upon completion of this qualification, learners can advance their careers by enrolling in higher-level qualifications. By so doing, learners will gain knowledge and skills that will prepare them to take more responsibilities within an organisation, pursue entrepreneurial opportunities or supervise a small team of mechanics within an organisation. Recognition will be given to learners that have gained experience, knowledge and skills through the process of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). The qualified Tractor Mechanic will play a role in building the economy of the country and add value to the society. |
| 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: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: |
| RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
| Y |
| QUALIFICATION RULES |
| This qualification consists of the following compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules:
Knowledge Modules: Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 133 Practical Skill Modules: Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 157 Work Experience Modules: Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 253 |
| EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
| 1. Perform preventative and scheduled maintenance on a tractor, engine components, gearboxes, mechanical parts and hydraulically or electrically powered systems in accordance with specifications.
2. Disassemble, assess, repair and reassemble tractor engine components, gearboxes, mechanical parts and hydraulically or electrically powered systems in accordance with specifications. 3. Diagnose and repair faults on tractor engine components, gearboxes, mechanical parts and hydraulically or electrically powered systems in accordance with specifications. |
| ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
| Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: Integrated Assessment: Integrated Formative Assessment: The skills development providers 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 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. The external summative assessment will be conducted through a trade test conducted in terms of Section 26 D of the Skills Development Act (SDA) and the Trade Test regulations. The assessment will consist of integrated written and practical tasks covering critical aspects of the trade in a simulated environment at an assessment centre accredited by QCTO and conducted by an assessor registered by National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB). The assessment will take place over a maximum of two days. A candidate who attempted a trade test will be given recognition for those trade test tasks in which he/she has been found competent and not be retested in those provided that: the learner is competent in at least 50% of the trade tasks given during the trade test, and the recognition will be retained by the candidate for a maximum of three attempts or 18 months from the date of successful completion of the trade test task whichever comes first. Certification rule: Candidates must attain a minimum of 80% for knowledge and 80 % for practical components of the assessment. The attainment of all the two part-qualifications does not lead to a full qualification, however, it will allow the candidate to either apply for an Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) assessment in preparation for the trade test. |
| INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
| Comparisons were made to Tractor Mechanic qualifications in New Zealand, Australia and Slovenia. These countries were chosen due to easy access to availability of qualifications that compared easily with the South African Tractor Mechanic qualification and best practices in terms of machinery in these countries. This comparison includes the Tractor Mechanic part qualifications.
New Zealand: The National Certificate in Motor Industry (Automotive Heavy Engineering) (Level 4) with strands in Agricultural Equipment, Materials Handling Equipment, Plant and Equipment, and Road Transport is registered on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework. This qualification is pegged at Level 4 and has credits ranging between 121-153. This qualification is aimed at people tasked with the responsibility of diagnosing and repairing complex vehicle and heavy equipment within the automotive, heavy and motor industry at both intermediate and advanced levels. Learners may choose the area of specialisation suited to individual respective area of work. The qualification comprises both core and elective unit standards. Elective unit standards are further clustered in accordance with the area of specialisation the learner may choose to pursue. These areas of specialisation, which are called strands as per the New Zealand terminology are: Plant and Equipment Strand; Road Transport Strand; Agricultural Equipment Strand and Materials Handling Equipment Strand. Core unit standards prepare learners to carry out administration work as well as participation in quality improvement activities. Included in core unit standards are also industry specific skills and knowledge covering diagnosis and rectification of electrical starting and charging systems, electronic diesel management, driveline, cooling system faults on heavy vehicles and equipment. On the other hand, the elective section of each strand allows candidates to add further skills that are relevant to their position and/or specific workplace requirements. Institutions that offer this qualification are Northland Polytechnic, Southern Institute of Technology as well as Wellington Institute of Technology. Australia: A few qualifications that are for individuals who perform maintenance and repair tasks on a variety of machinery in the automotive retail, service and repair industry are registered on the Australian Qualifications Framework. Some of these qualifications are listed below: Each of these qualifications is offered over a period of three years in the form of an apprenticeship. Bendigo TAFE, TAFE Queensland, Kangan Institute, Oceania College of Technology, are some of the accredited training providers that offer these qualifications. Slovenia: The Slovenian Qualifications Framework has registered a certificate for Mechanic for Agricultural and other Machinery is registered on Level 4. This qualification is for learners who operate in the automotive, construction, mining and agricultural sectors. Entry into the qualification is proof of completion of elementary education or lower vocational education. The qualification comprises both core and elective standards: Some of the core unit standards covered in the qualification are : plan and organise their own work; carry out diagnoses and localise and eliminate faults in propulsion units and other machinery in agricultural, utilities and civil engineering contexts with the help of modern devices; carry out the set-up, maintenance and repair of mechanical assemblies and installations, electric, electronic, hydraulic and pneumatic installations in propulsion units and other machinery in agricultural, utilities and civil engineering contexts; autonomously and safely carry out repairs and maintenance of propulsion units and other machinery and plants in agricultural, utilities and civil engineering contexts and use information and communication technology for communication and to plan and organise autonomous, safe, economical work and work processes in their professional field. Elective standards are: diagnose, set and regulate the working parameters of tractors, propulsion units, trailers and working machinery; assemble, maintain and repair plants and equipment in agriculture and horticulture; set up, prepare and provide services with agricultural and horticultural machinery, and keep records; repair and maintain construction machinery and utilities machinery and plants; diagnose the state of tyres and rims and maintain and repair them using modern tools and instruments and diagnose, set-up, connect, regulate and maintain electronic and electro-hydraulic installations and systems. The Institute of the Republic of Slovenia for Vocational Education and Training (CPI) was appointed the National Coordination Point (NCP) for the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) in Slovenia. Similarities: Similarities have been noted in terms of course content, entry requirements, scope of work, targeted learners, learning methodology, i.e. apprenticeship and the workplaces within which qualified learners operate. Differences: Differences are in terms of credits allocated to internationally compared qualifications. The South African Tractor Mechanic has a high credit value due to the inclusion of modules pegged from NQF Levels 2 through to NQF Level 4. Differences have also been noted with regards to the inclusion of part qualifications in the South African Tractor Mechanic, whilst in qualifications offered in other countries, workplace specifics are catered for in the form of 'strands' and elective unit standards. It has also been noted that whilst the South African Tractor Mechanic qualification has covered individual learning units as part qualifications, these are covered as elective unit standards for each area of specialisation (strand) in New Zealand qualifications. Whereas in Australian qualifications, each of these has been developed as a stand-alone qualification. Conclusion: The South African Tractor Mechanic occupational qualification compares favourably with qualifications offered in other countries in terms of content, level of complexity and duration. |
| ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
| This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
Horizontal Articulation: This qualification articulates horizontally with the following qualifications: Vertical Articulation: This qualification articulates vertically with the following qualifications: |
| 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 by means of statements of results and work experience records including 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 are: Tractor Mechanic: 653308-000-00-00. Encompassed Trades: This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD: Assessment Quality Partner (AQP): Related Part-Qualification: |
| LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: |
| When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced 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. |