In the October SAIRAC Johannesburg Centre online Tech Talk hosted by Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Academy (ACRA) owner Grant Laidlaw, the future of air conditioning and refrigeration training was a central theme. With the legacy trade tests already phased out since June 30, 2024, the discussion focused on the transitional landscape and emerging qualifications in the industry.
This is the transcript of the presentation, edited by Eamonn Ryan, and is Part 8 of a 9-part article.
Grant Laidlaw. © RACA Journal
Transition to new occupational tests
The legacy trade test remains available until the new occupational tests are fully implemented. Laidlaw emphasised the importance of gaining qualifications under the existing system while it’s still in place, particularly since the new tests will be more comprehensive and detailed.
The development of new occupational assessments is progressing well, with the focus areas nearing completion. The goal is to pilot the first tests in the early part of next year, although the implementation timeline is subject to change. Once the new system is in place, legacy trade tests will be phased out, restricting access to current apprentices in the system.
Looking ahead, Laidlaw anticipated that the new qualifications and tools required for accreditation would be in place by the first quarter of 2025. He urged stakeholders to motivate the Department of Higher Education to expedite these processes, emphasising the need for learners to begin entering the new system.
The discussion highlighted a critical transition period for training and qualifications in the refrigeration and air conditioning sectors, with significant implications for apprentices, employers, and training providers. Laidlaw concluded the session by inviting questions from attendees.
CPD points, qualification alignment and trade tests
In this segment, Grant Laidlaw addressed questions related to the integration of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) points with trade test qualifications, the alignment of current offerings with new qualifications, and the structure of trade test outcomes.
Laidlaw confirmed that the process for linking trade test qualifications with CPD points is underway, spearheaded by ECSA (the Engineering Council of South Africa). They are developing a database to register artisans and their levels of qualification. Once there is sufficient uptake, ECSA plans to enforce CPD requirements for professional artisans, similar to existing systems for engineers and technicians.
Regarding the impact on qualifications registered with QCTO (Quality Council for Trades and Occupations) and SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority), Laidlaw explained that ECSA will review current qualifications and align them with new occupational standards. This alignment process is essential for ensuring that all qualifications at Levels 4 and above are recognised.
Alignment of courses with new qualifications
In response to a question about the alignment of courses at training institutions, Laidlaw assured that as new qualifications are finalised, existing courses will be realigned accordingly. This alignment is expected to occur in the first quarter of the upcoming year, ensuring that all certifications reflect the updated qualifications.
Laidlaw clarified that qualifications encompass broader categories, including domestic, commercial, and industrial refrigeration. Learners can receive credit for completing specific portions of a qualification, allowing them to write trade tests for those sections. This modular approach enables individuals to build their qualifications over time, ultimately leading to a Level 4 or 5 certification.
