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Evaluation of Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL)

Evaluation of Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) towards qualifying for trade test. The merSETA Evaluation of Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) is a service designed to formally recognize the skills and knowledge that individuals have acquired through work experience, rather than formal education. This process allows candidates to gain access to a trade test and potentially become certified artisans.

Here are some key aspects of the ARPL service:

  1. Application Process: Candidates apply at an accredited Trade Test Centre. They need to complete a standard application form and provide a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) that includes their CV, certified documents of qualifications, and proof of relevant work experience.
  2. Evaluation: The evaluation measures a candidate’s work experience, conceptual knowledge, and technical skills. This is done to ensure they meet the criteria for the trade test.
  3. Technical Evaluation Panel: A panel of qualified artisans, who are subject matter experts, assesses the candidates. The panel ensures the integrity of the evaluation process.
  4. Outcome: Successful candidates are granted access to a trade test, which, if passed, leads to certification as an artisan.

This service is particularly beneficial for individuals who have gained substantial experience in their trade but lack formal qualifications. It provides a pathway to formal recognition and certification, enhancing their career prospects.

Features

The merSETA Evaluation of Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) service has several key features, attributes, and criteria designed to ensure a thorough and fair assessment of candidates’ skills and experience. Here are the main points:

  1. Application Process: Candidates apply at an accredited Trade Test Centre, providing a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) that includes their CV, certified documents of qualifications, and proof of relevant work experience.
  2. Evaluation: The evaluation measures a candidate’s work experience, conceptual knowledge, and technical skills to ensure they meet the criteria for the trade test.
  3. Technical Evaluation Panel: A panel of qualified artisans, who are subject matter experts, assesses the candidates to ensure the integrity of the evaluation process.
  4. Accessibility: The service is designed to be accessible to individuals with substantial work experience but lacking formal qualifications.
  5. Comprehensive Assessment: The evaluation covers various aspects of a candidate’s experience and skills, ensuring a holistic assessment.
  6. Supportive Process: Candidates are guided through the process, including the compilation of their PoE and understanding the requirements.
  7. Work Experience: Candidates must have a minimum of three years of relevant work experience within South Africa.
  8. Educational Qualifications: Candidates need to have an N2 certificate, including relevant trade theory.
  9. Portfolio of Evidence (PoE): The PoE must include a CV, certified documents of qualifications, proof of employment, and trade-related duties performed.
  10. Technical Evaluation: Candidates are assessed by a panel of qualified artisans to ensure they meet the necessary standards for the trade test.

This service is particularly beneficial for individuals who have gained substantial experience in their trade but lack formal qualifications, providing a pathway to formal recognition and certification.

Service Benefits

The merSETA Evaluation of Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) service has several key features, attributes, and criteria designed to ensure a thorough and fair assessment of candidates’ skills and experience. Here are the main points:

  1. Application Process: Candidates apply at an accredited Trade Test Centre, providing a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) that includes their CV, certified documents of qualifications, and proof of relevant work experience.
  2. Evaluation: The evaluation measures a candidate’s work experience, conceptual knowledge, and technical skills to ensure they meet the criteria for the trade test.
  3. Technical Evaluation Panel: A panel of qualified artisans, who are subject matter experts, assesses the candidates to ensure the integrity of the evaluation process.
  4. Accessibility: The service is designed to be accessible to individuals with substantial work experience but lacking formal qualifications.
  5. Comprehensive Assessment: The evaluation covers various aspects of a candidate’s experience and skills, ensuring a holistic assessment.
  6. Supportive Process: Candidates are guided through the process, including the compilation of their PoE and understanding the requirements.
  7. Work Experience: Candidates must have a minimum of three years of relevant work experience within South Africa.
  8. Educational Qualifications: Candidates need to have an N2 certificate, including relevant trade theory.
  9. Portfolio of Evidence (PoE): The PoE must include a CV, certified documents of qualifications, proof of employment, and trade-related duties performed.
  10. Technical Evaluation: Candidates are assessed by a panel of qualified artisans to ensure they meet the necessary standards for the trade test.

This service is particularly beneficial for individuals who have gained substantial experience in their trade but lack formal qualifications, providing a pathway to formal recognition and certification.

FAQs

What does ‘relevant work experience’ mean for ARPL?

Relevant work experience refers to experience according to training schedules for the trade, which aligns with the skills and knowledge required for the trade test2.

Is a pre-assessment required before taking the trade test?

A pre-assessment may be recommended to determine the candidate’s readiness for the trade test, and the cost is borne by the employer or candidate.

What is the role of the Technical Evaluation Panel in ARPL?

The panel evaluates the candidate’s PoE and consists of qualified artisans who are Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) approved by the National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB)1.

Who can apply for ARPL?

Individuals with a minimum of three years relevant work experience within South Africa and an N2 certificate including relevant trade theory, or equivalent qualifications, can apply.

What is the Qualifying Criteria?

To qualify for ARPL trade test, candidates must meet certain criteria such as having a minimum of three years relevant work experience within South Africa and an N2 certificate including relevant trade theory, or other equivalent qualifications.

How long does the ARPL process typically take?

The duration of the ARPL (Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning) process can vary significantly depending on various factors such as the complexity of the trade, the individual’s prior experience, and the specific requirements of the Trade Test Centre1. It involves several steps including application, orientation, and compilation of a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE).

What documentation is needed for the Evaluatory PoE?

The ARPL candidate must compile a PoE that includes a Curriculum Vitae (CV) and any other certified supporting documents of qualifications and current and previous employment together with the trade-related duties performed, together with any photographic proof, where available.

What is the purpose and process of ARPL?

The purpose of ARPL is to acknowledge that people never stop learning, whether it takes place formally at an educational institution, or whether it happens informally1. The process involves applying at an accredited Trade Test Centre, undergoing an orientation, and compiling a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) that includes a Curriculum Vitae (CV) and any other certified supporting documents of qualifications and current and previous employment.

What is ARPL?

ARPL is a process whereby people’s prior learning can be formally recognized in terms of registered qualifications and unit standards, regardless of where and how the learning was attained.