QCTO Apparel and Related Manufacturing Machine Mechanic NQF Level 4 Credits 576 OC102582 Training Material

Description

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as an Apparel and Related
Manufacturing Machine Mechanic. An Apparel and Related Manufacturing Machine Mechanic repairs,
maintains, services and set-up a range of sewing machines and related auxiliary equipment used
within the clothing manufacturing processes.
A qualified learner will be able to:
 Repair, maintain and adjust a range of basic sewing machines and equipment to ensure that
machines and all related equipment are fully functional.
 Repair, maintain and adjust a range of intermediate sewing machines to ensure that machines
and all related equipment are fully functional.
 Repair, maintain and adjust a range of advanced sewing machine types and equipment to ensure
that all machines and all related equipment are fully functional.
 Set up a range of sewing machines and related equipment according to style specification.
 Select, attach, maintain, adjust and modify a range of attachments, including folders, binders,
hemmers, guides and specific feet.
 Repair, maintain and adjust a range of cutting machines and related equipment to ensure good
working order.
 Repair, maintain and adjust a selection of three of a range of fusing machines, portable steam
generators, pneumatic systems and electro-mechanical tasks on sewing machine motors.
Rationale:
In order for any clothing manufacturing firm to function effectively and efficiently, it would need to
ensure for the on-going maintenance, repair and service of the sewing machines and related
equipment. One of the ongoing measurements relative to efficiency is machine downtime and
minimizing the costs related thereto. The role of the Sewing Machine Mechanic, is thus of
importance in respect of one of the key assets within the manufacturing firm.
This three-year qualification is needed within and amongst the clothing manufacturing firms and
represents a first of its kind in clothing manufacturing. It addresses the need within industry for the
services of a professional Sewing Machine Mechanic, able to do repair and maintenance work across
a broad range of machinery and related equipment found within a clothing manufacturing firm.
The qualification will allow for existing learners/staff members who have been employed within
industry for many years, to receive recognition for previous experiences and competencies acquired,
through gaining access to the assessment. It also will allow new entrants, the opportunity of
entering a career pathway, with no experience, and to qualify as a professional sewing machine
mechanic. Qualifying learners will continue to be employed by their respective firms, where
applicable, or even creating self-employment opportunities to those learners in pursuant of positions
as consultants within industry.
Minimizing machine downtime, performing a range of repair and maintenance tasks across a range
of sewing machines, are central aspects which are addressed in the qualification, along with a focus
on effective communication and time management skills, and transference of skills in the workplace
environment which has progressed in terms of world class manufacturing systems and processes,
where applicable.
This qualification equips learners with the necessary skills, knowledge and attitudes to become
professional sewing machine mechanics, not only contributing toward the development of individual
skills but toward a pool of professional individuals who would be an invaluable asset to the future
success and sustainability of clothing manufacturing sector, especially given the environmental
changes within which fashion businesses complete. This qualification will further resolve the ongoing concern within the sector of recruitment of young, new sewing machine mechanics. There is
no doubt that qualifying learners will add immense value to their respective organizations.
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 results or by certifying a work
experience record.
RPL for Access to the Qualification:
Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognize prior learning against the relevant
access requirements.
Entry Requirements:
The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
 NQF Level 1 qualification with Mathematics and Communication.