In the heart of South Africa’s vocational training landscape, the North West Training Centre (NTC) stands as a testament to dedication and expertise, a beacon for aspiring plumbers and electricians. Established in 2008 as a humble Trade Test Centre, NTC has evolved into a powerhouse, accredited by a constellation of industry bodies and government departments, shaping the futures of thousands.
From its early days under the Department of Labour, through the transition to the Department of Higher Education and Training, and navigating the complexities of the QCTO’s occupational trade test migration, NTC has remained steadfast. While the shift from legacy to occupational testing presented its share of challenges – as expected in such a sweeping overhaul – NTC’s resilience and unwavering commitment to quality have prevailed.
“Throughout our 17-year journey,” reflects a senior figure at NTC, “we’ve been consistently supported by the various departments and the individuals within them. Their collaboration has been instrumental in our success.”
NTC offers two distinct pathways to achieving artisan status: the traditional apprenticeship and the Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) route. Both culminate in the same coveted trade test certificate, a testament to the candidate’s proficiency. While apprenticeships, once the cornerstone of artisan training, have dwindled in popularity due to their lengthy five-year commitment, the ARPL pathway offers a lifeline to experienced individuals who missed out on formal apprenticeships.
“We cater to those who possess at least three years of demonstrable workplace experience,” explains an NTC assessor. “This pathway allows them to formalize their skills and gain the qualifications they deserve.”
Crucially, NTC prioritizes quality over quantity. Candidates are thoroughly assessed and prepared, with gap-closure training provided to ensure they are fully equipped for the rigorous two-day trade test, now officially termed an External Integrated Summative Assessment. This meticulous approach has earned NTC a reputation for producing highly skilled artisans.
“We refuse to send unprepared candidates to the trade test,” asserts an NTC spokesperson. “Our aim is to ensure they possess the same level of knowledge as seasoned artisans, even if they lack the years of experience.”
NTC’s commitment to excellence extends beyond its own candidates. The centre also provides trade testing services to TVET colleges, filling a critical gap in their training infrastructure. The tests themselves, conducted with meticulous adherence to safety protocols and industry standards, are designed to evaluate practical skills and theoretical knowledge, not to promote specific products.
With an annual throughput of 200-300 trade tests, and plans to expand to 400 with the opening of a new Cape Town branch, NTC’s impact is undeniable. Its focus on uplifting semi-skilled workers to skilled artisans has a ripple effect, empowering families and creating opportunities for new entrants into the workforce.
“Our track record speaks for itself,” states an NTC manager. “We don’t abandon candidates until they succeed. Even after passing, they remain part of our support network, receiving ongoing assistance via WhatsApp groups.”
NTC’s dedication to quality is further underscored by its commitment to external moderation, ensuring that its facilities and equipment remain cutting-edge. After 17 years and thousands of successful candidates, NTC proudly proclaims a unique achievement: “We can confidently say that every artisan who graduates from our centre is employed. No one else can make that claim.”
In a landscape where skilled artisans are in high demand, NTC stands as a testament to the power of quality training, transforming lives and building a brighter future for South Africa’s workforce.