The COVID-19 crisis has caused enormous disruption to the lives of all South Africans, and has impacted on Skills Development. A challenge that currently faces us in this time of social distancing is the need for training associated with a majority of qualifications and trades on the Occupational Qualifications Sub-Framework (OQSF) to be conducted face-to-face.

To this end, the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) has given consideration to the future of Education and Training in South Africa. It is noted that many qualifications and trades on the OQSF consist of knowledge/theory and practical components, and that various assessments are carried out in the build up to the final Summative Assessment or trade test.

The QCTO acknowledges that there is no fundamental injunction against online learning for qualifications on the OQSF.

Mr V Naidoo, CEO of QCTO says that: “While current regulations around many qualifications and trades on the OQSF generally forbid online or distance learning, the QCTO recognises the reality that the nation faces an extended period of some form of social distancing for an indefinite period of time. As the custodian of qualifications and trades on the OQSF, the QCTO has taken the decision to relax regulations around the mode of delivery for qualifications on this sub-framework.”

 The QCTO goes on to issue the following guidelines:

1. All knowledge and practical learning for OQSF qualifications and trades may be conducted through online or blended learning – even where the qualification specifies that this is not possible;
2. Formative or ongoing assessments can also be conducted through online channels;
3. Final summative assessments (such as the External Integrated Summative Assessment, Trade Tests or Final Assessments) may not at this stage be conducted online and all evidence must be collected as usual;
4. Skills Development Providers (SDPs) that have an urgent need to conduct final summative assessments, and have a robust methodology in place, may apply to the QCTO in writing for special permission to conduct final assessments; and
5. The qualification requirements have been complied with, and where deviations are required, permission for such deviations has been sought in writing from the QCTO.

The Training Academy has already begun the process of online learning. During the month of May, online teaching on three construction contracts, JBCC, GCC and MBSA were offered free of charge to members. These sessions have been very successful with many complementary reviews given after each session. This has been very encouraging and other courses are in the process of being adapted to presentation via online platforms.

The Training Academy will present the following during June:

Contribute to the management of project risk within own field of expertise

• Identify and recognise potential risks that could affect project performance. 
• Contribute to the assessment of the impact and likelihood of identified risks. 
• Contribute to the development of risk management statements and plans. 
• Monitor and control the project risks. 

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of relevant current occupational health and safety legislation (COVID-19 Compliance)

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of the relevant legislation. 
• Explain the requirements for compliance as stipulated in the current legislation. 
• Determine the management controls required under legislation to achieve compliance.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of record keeping required by the legislation. 
• Explain the legal obligations of the employer in terms of training and communication. 

Home Builder Quality Standards

• The South African housing landscape.
• The design and construction of homes.
• The NHBRC warranty scheme.
• Satisfying the NHBRC Technical Requirements by means of compliance methods.
• Extraordinary development conditions.

These will be charged at competitive rates. Write to training@masterbuilders.co.za or call 031 831 3238 to book your virtual seat now!

Victor Smith | Training Manager