If you enjoy working with your hands, are detail-oriented, and have a gift for problem-solving, then the Boilermaker course could be a good career for you. In this article we will be exploring Boilermaker course at TVET Colleges in South Africa and answer some frequently asked questions.
Boilermaker course in TVET colleges
You might be wondering, What is a Boilermaker? Well, a boilermaker is a skilled artisan who work with steel, iron, and other metals to fabricate, assemble, and repair boilers, pressure vessels, and various metal structures. Boilermakers are highly wanted in industries like power generation, shipbuilding, mining, and construction.
A boilermaker course prioritizes a combination of classroom instruction and on-the-job training under the guidance of experienced Boilermakers and lecturers. Students spend a significant portion of their time in workshops, learning the intricacies of welding, cutting, shaping, and assembling metal components. The curriculum is designed to equip TVET College students with the specific skills and knowledge employers are looking for.
Students learn about blueprints, safety protocols, working with different types of metals, and using specialized tools and machinery. Upon graduation, students are qualified for various positions in the boiler making industry. You could work on-site in construction projects, shipyards, or power plants, or find employment in fabrication shops.
Where can I study boilermaker?
The following TVET Colleges in South Africa offer boilermaker course:
NB: Consult with your local TVET College or any public TVET College you would love to enrol to, if they offer the boilermaker course.
Boilermaker Course Requirements
The specific requirements for Boilermaker courses at TVET Colleges in South Africa vary slightly, the best way to find the exact entry requirements for a Boilermaker course is to visit the website of the specific TVET College you're interested in but here's a general guideline:
Boilermaker course in TVET colleges in Pretoria:
Boilermaker course in TVET colleges in Durban:
Boilermaker course in TVET colleges in Limpopo:
Boilermaker course in TVET colleges in Mpumalanga:
Boilermaker course in TVET colleges in Gauteng:
Boilermaker course in TVET colleges in KZN:
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long are boilermaker courses?
Boilermaker courses in TVET Colleges range from 3 to 12 months, this usually includes classroom learning (theory). Practical training usually range from 12 to 24 months depending on the apprenticeship you got. t's important to research specific colleges and their Boilermaker programmes to get a clear idea of their overall length. It will take you about 2 years to be a qualified boilermaker.
Can I do boilermaker without matric?
you can pursue a Boilermaker Course at a TVET College in South Africa without a matric certificate. The typical minimum entry requirement is a Grade 9 certificate. It's important to remember that specific entry requirements may vary by college. So, your best course of action is to research the colleges you're interested in and directly contact their admissions department if you have any questions about their Boilermaker course requirements.
What is a boilermaker's salary in SA?
The salary of a boilermaker in South Africa can vary depending on several factors, including:
Here's a range to give you a general idea:
What is the aps score for the boilermaker course?
Boilermaker courses at South African TVET Colleges typically don't have an APS (Admission Point Score) requirement. APS is more commonly used for university admissions, while TVET Colleges often have different entry criteria.
Can I do boilermaker with maths literacy?
Majority of South African TVET Colleges require pure maths to apply for a boilermaker course, this simply means that with Maths Literacy, you have limited chances to be admitted.
Which subject is best for boilermaker?
The following subjects are best if you want to pursue a boilermaker qualification:
Where can a boilermaker work?
Boilermakers are skilled tradespeople in high demand across various industries in South Africa. Here's a breakdown of some common workplaces for boilermakers:
This is a major employer of boilermakers, as they're responsible for constructing, maintaining, and repairing boilers in power plants. These boilers generate steam to drive turbines for electricity production.
Boilermakers play a crucial role in building and maintaining ships. They work on boiler systems used for propulsion and other functions on board vessels.
Boilermakers are involved in various construction projects, from building boilers for heating systems in large buildings to fabricating metal structures and pressure vessels.
The mining industry employs boilermakers for tasks like maintaining and repairing boilers used in processing plants and for generating power at mining sites.
Boilermakers might be involved in building and maintaining boilers used in refineries or for processing and transporting oil and gas products.
Some boilermakers work in specialized fabrication shops that manufacture boilers, pressure vessels, and other metal structures for various industries.
Experienced boilermakers with entrepreneurial skills might choose to become self-employed, offering their services to different clients on a contract basis.
Additional Factors:
What does a boilermaker do in the mines?
In the South African mining industry, boilermakers play a crucial role in keeping operations running smoothly. Their specific tasks can vary depending on the type of mine and the equipment used, but here are some of the common responsibilities:
How much is a boilermaker course?
The cost of a Boilermaker course at a TVET College in South Africa can vary depending on several factors but if you are funded by NSFAS or any other external bursaries you wont have to cover the cost of the boilermaker course. Generally the costs of a boilermaker course can range from R8,500 - R20,000 (This is an estimate – some colleges might offer shorter programs at a lower cost)
Is boilermaker a good career?
Whether boilermaker is a good career for you depends on your interests and priorities. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide:
Pros:
Cons:
The Boilermaker course at TVET Colleges offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable skills and knowledge in a practical learning environment. If you're looking for a rewarding career path in the skilled trades, this course could be the perfect first step towards building a successful future!