FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ’s)

A Water Reticulation Practitioner installs and maintains the water reticulation infrastructure, identifies and attends to water leaks, installs water meters, maintains the water system and interfaces with colleagues (QCTO Curriculum Document).

The Water Reticulation Practitioner Qualification (NQF Level 4) is equivalent to the National Senior Certificate (i.e. matric). However, the value of this qualification is in its occupational nature (i.e. training to be ‘work ready’).

The specific occupational tasks for a Water Reticulation Practitioner include (QCTO Curriculum Document):

  • “Install water reticulation infrastructure.
  • Operate and maintain a water reticulation system.
  • Manage a water reticulation team”.

General Entry Requirements

  • An NQF Level 2 with Mathematical literacy (i.e. Grade 10 / Standard 8 with mathematical literacy).
  • Water Business College (WBC) recognises and will meet the national requirements for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Please Note: Satisfying the general entry requirements does not equate to automatic entry to the qualification. Only a limited number of leaners can be accommodated due to the occupational nature of the qualification.

Beneficiaries / Target Groups: The target audience for the Water Reticulation Practitioner Qualification (NQF Level 04) include:

  • Water practitioners / Technical staff in the private and public sectors seeking to formalise their knowledge and years of experience with an occupational qualification.
  • Qualifying Scholars / Young persons’ looking to enter the workforce through entry-level occupational qualifications in the water services sector.

Please see the full SAQA qualification document on the WBC website.

The Water Infrastructure Manager Qualification (NQF Level 8) focusses on the management of water infrastructure assets with respect to the acquisition, operation and maintenance of such assets to reduce associated risks and costs over the life-cycle of the water infrastructure.

An NQF level 8 is equivalent to an honour’s (post-graduate) degree.

The specific occupational tasks for a Water Infrastructure Manager include (QCTO Curriculum Document):

  • Update or develop a Water Services Development Plan.
  • Identify, design and develop water infrastructure programmes and projects.
  • Coordinate, monitor and control of operational tasks relating water infrastructure.
  • Develop and manage the water infrastructure operations and maintenance programme.
  • Monitor, update and maintain the management information system.

Entry Requirements

  • NQF Level 7 Qualification in Engineering (or relevant physical and/ or mathematical science with relevant experience).
  • Water Business College (WBC) recognises and will meet the national requirements for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Please Note: Satisfying the general entry requirements does not equate to automatic entry to the qualification. Only a limited number of leaners can be accommodated due to the occupational nature of the qualification.

Beneficiaries / Target Groups: The target audience for the Water Infrastructure Manager Qualification (NQF Level 08) include:

  • Graduates in the water services and water resources sectors as well as those qualified in related engineering and/or science disciplines.
  • Qualified professionals in the private and public sectors seeking to expand their knowledge / skills and/or change discipline.
  • Water practitioners / Technical staff in the private and public sectors seeking to formalise their knowledge and years of experience with an occupational qualification.

Please see the full SAQA qualification document on the WBC website.

Water Business College (WBC) (Water Business College – Water is Life.) is introducing a Non-Contractual, Modular ‘Pay-As-You-Learn’ (MPAYL) system (Please see Terms and Conditions at: Qualification Rules & Regulations – Water Business College

The Cost per Knowledge and Practical Module and/or the Cost per Short Course will be published on the Water Business College website.

Learners will get online access, upon payment, to the:

  • Learning material for the module (i.e. study guide, links to prescribed reading material, assignments, etc).
  • Assessment material for the module (self-study questions, informal and formal tests, etc.). 
  • A number of contact sessions with the facilitator. The contact sessions can be in the form of presentations, question and answer sessions and/or feedback sessions.

Non-Contractual means that it is not required of the learner to complete a financial contract to register for the individual Knowledge and Practical modules (i.e. the qualification). 

Modular – The qualification is sub-divided into individual credit-bearing Knowledge (KM) and Practical (PM) modules. The re-structuring of the qualification into credit-bearing Knowledge (KM) and Practical (PM) modules addresses / accommodates the requirements of flexibility for part-time students (i.e. employed staff) and also aims to make it affordable for all learners.

Pay-As-You-Learn – Learners pay per Period per Module (i.e. for both the Knowledge and Practical modules) prior to getting access to the learning material / content for the specific course / module. Each credit-bearing Knowledge and Practical module is costed individually based on the credit allocation / rating for that module. Cost / Price per individual module will be published on the WBC website when modules become available. 

An Affordable Learning Environment – As indicated, learners pay per Period per Module and will only be enrolled for the selected Period. Learners will register and pay to attend only one (1) Period per Knowledge (KM) and/or Practical (PM) module as the learning material covered is exactly the same for all periods. The cost of a Knowledge (KM) and Practical (PM) module is based on the credit allocation / rating of the module.

No application fees will be charged, and the submission of an application form is not binding on the prospective learner and/or sponsor.

Please note: A minimum number of registered learners per period per module is required for the specific module to proceed.

Water Business College (WBC) is finalising a re-imbursement policy.

Water Business College (WBC) (Water Business College – Water is Life.) is introducing a Non-Contractual, Modular ‘Pay-As-You-Learn’ (MPAYL) system (Please see Terms and Conditions at: Qualification Rules & Regulations – Water Business College

Non-Contractual means that it is not required of the learner to complete a financial contract to register for the individual Knowledge and Practical modules (i.e. the qualification). 

Modular – The qualification is sub-divided into individual credit-bearing Knowledge (KM) and Practical (PM) modules. The re-structuring of the qualification into credit-bearing Knowledge (KM) and Practical (PM) modules addresses / accommodates the requirements of flexibility for part-time students (i.e. employed staff) and also aims to make it affordable for all learners.

Pay-As-You-Learn – Learners pay per Period per Module (i.e. for both the Knowledge and Practical modules) prior to getting access to the learning material / content for the specific course / module. Each credit-bearing Knowledge and Practical module is costed individually based on the credit allocation / rating for that module.

A Flexible Learning Environment – Learners can select and complete an individual Knowledge and/or Practical module during a Period that suits their programme. Each Knowledge and/or Practical module will be offered at three (3) different periods during an academic year. The learning material for each of the periods per module is exactly the same. As a result, learners can complete the occupational qualification over a longer period than the minimum period of two (2) years. For example, learners can complete Year 1 (of the 2-year occupational qualification) either full-time (over a 1-year period) or part-time (over a 2-year to 2,5-year period). 

An Affordable Learning Environment – As indicated, learners pay per Period per Module and will only be enrolled for the selected Period. Learners will register and pay to attend only one (1) Period per Knowledge (KM) and Practical (PM) module as the learning material covered is exactly the same for all periods. The cost of a Knowledge (KM) and Practical (PM) module is based on the credit allocation / rating of the module.

All qualifications are structured to accommodate, where feasible, the requirements of both part-time / non-traditional learners (i.e. employed staff) and full-time learners.

Hybrid Learning Strategy – A hybrid / blended approach to offering the academic programmes of WBC will be implemented to cater for employed persons located in different provinces in South Africa (and beyond the borders of South Africa). Knowledge modules (KM) will be offered online while two, 2-week Practical modules (PM) must be attended in-person. 

A Flexible Learning Environment – Learners can select and complete an individual Knowledge and/or Practical module during a Period that suits their programme. Each Knowledge and/or Practical module will be offered at three (3) different periods during an academic year. The learning material for each of the periods per module is exactly the same. As a result, learners can complete the occupational qualification over a longer period than the minimum period of two (2) years. For example, learners can complete Year 1 (of the 2-year occupational qualification) either full-time (over a 1-year period) or part-time (over a 2-year to 2,5-year period). 

Knowledge Modules (KM) – The knowledge modules will be offered on-line, in two 2-hour online sessions, at least twice a week during the afternoons (Online lectures are currently scheduled for Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 17h00 to 19h00). A minimum number of registered learners per period per module is required for the specific module to proceed.

Knowledge Module (KM) Assessment – Learners will be required to familiarise themselves with the relevant pre-scribed content / reading material, complete assignments as well as informal and formal tests to successfully complete a particular module. The assessments are designed to be completed online. The learners may, however, be required to download and upload completed assignments, etc. The number of assignments and tests depend on the credit allocation / rating of the module. Learners will receive a certificate (per module) if all the requirements for the module are met.

Practical Modules (PM) – The practical modules will be scheduled and offered in-person at a practical site. The in-person and full-time attendance of two, 2-week practical sessions at a venue determined by WBC are compulsory. Each practical programme requires a minimum of 1 week preparation (prior to attending the 2-week practical session) as well as 2 weeks allocated to report writing (after attending the 2-week practical session). ‘Practical 3 – Know your Water Reticulation System’ will take the form of a comprehensive assignment developed by WBC specific to the learner’s profile.

Learners must complete three (3) practical sessions. The pre-requisites to gain entry to the practical sessions are as follows:

  • On-Site Practical 1 – Water Reticulation Systems: Learners must complete Knowledge Modules 1 to 5 (i.e. KM01 to KM05).
  • On-Site Practical 2 – Operation & Maintenance: Learners must complete Knowledge Modules 6 to 8 (i.e. KM06 to KM08).
  • Practical 3 – Know your Water Reticulation System: Assignment developed by WBC specific to the learner’s profile. Learners must successfully complete On-Site Practical 1 and On-Site Practical 2.

Practical Site / Laboratory – WBC developed / built a ‘hands-on’ / practical laboratory (i.e., a prototype water reticulation system) to simulate (for training purposes) the water reticulation processes / systems of water service providers (i.e. municipalities) and private industry (eg. mines, industrial plants, etc). 

  • Learners are required to attend two, 2-week practical sessions (4 weeks in total during the academic year) for in-person, hands-on training at our practical site. Please see a video of our practical site by accessing the following YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RndYrlr6L7Q 

The implementation of the ‘hands-on’ laboratory / field site supports the purpose of the Water Reticulation (NQF Level 04) qualification, for example to enable the learner to:

  • Install water reticulation infrastructure.
  • Operation and maintain a water reticulation system.
  • Manage a water reticulation team.

Please Note: Two, 2-week practical sessions were conducted during the pilot implementation phase. These practical sessions resulted in the development and updating of a practical manual. WBC has recently dissembled the practical site after calibration of the instruments and the conducting of two practical sessions during the pilot programme. The practical site will be re-assembled, at a more appropriate locality, in time of the next practical sessions.

WBC is implementing a blended / hybrid learning strategy with a mix of predominantly online as well as in-person / contact learning programmes (sessions). Theoretical and selected practical modules will be offered on-line. 

The occupational qualifications include practical modules that will require in-person attendance / contact sessions (i.e. ‘hands-on’ training). Appropriate infrastructure to facilitate the practical modules will be established in regions / provinces where there is sufficient demand for our qualifications.

WBC intend to enrol only a limited number of learners per intake for a specific qualification per year.

No, Water Business College (WBC) do not offer student loans or bursaries. 

Water Business College (WBC) (Water Business College – Water is Life.) is introducing a Non-Contractual, Modular ‘Pay-As-You-Learn’ (MPAYL) system (Please see Terms and Conditions at: Qualification Rules & Regulations – Water Business College

An Affordable Learning Environment – Learners pay per Period per Module and will only be enrolled for the selected Period. Learners will register and pay to attend only one (1) Period per Knowledge (KM) and Practical (PM) module as the learning material covered is exactly the same for all periods. The cost / price per individual module will be published on the WBC website when modules become available.

WBC also concluded partnership agreements with (and outsourced the financial management functions to) established and registered financial institutions offering affordable student loans, including MANATI and FUNDI. These leading student funding organisations provide affordable funding solutions for prospective students who wish to study at higher education institutions but are unable to do so because they cannot afford it or cannot secure financing. Prospective learners (i.e. once admitted to a qualification) can apply directly, with the WBC admission letter, to these financial institutions. Please see our website for further details on the funding organisations.

Water Business College (WBC) is a private educational institute and does not receive any funding / subsidies from the South African Government. In addition, students enrolling at any private higher education institution do not qualify for NFSAS funding / loan.

All applicants will be subjected to a selection process for admission to a specific qualification. Once admitted, you will get an admission letter from Water Business College which you can then use to apply for a student loan at the above-mentioned financial institutions (or any other registered financial institution of your choice). Please see our website for more details on these financial institutions: Water Business College – Water is Life.

To apply (online) please follow the link: Occupational Qualification Application Form – Water Business College.

A learner can then achieve / obtain the occupational qualification on completion of all the knowledge and practical modules as well as the examinations and the workplace skills modules.

Interested learners and practitioners must familiarise themselves with information on, and the structure of, the 2-year occupational qualifications on the Water Business College (WBC) website.

Module Completion – Learners must complete all requirements for the Knowledge (KM) and Practical (PM) module within the Period (per module) selected. 

The general requirements for a Knowledge module (KM) include;

  • Attendance of the contact sessions with the facilitator.
  • Consultation of the pre-scribed reading material.
  • Completion of the informal and formal tests, etc. 

The general requirements for a Practical module (PM) include;

  • Complete tasks in preparation for the 2-week full-time practical sessions.
  • In-person attendance of the two, 2-week blocks.
  • Completion of daily practical tasks (during a practical session).
  • Comprehensive report on the practical sessions, etc. 

Please Note: 

  • A Certificate will be issued on completion of the Knowledge (KM) and Practical (PM) modules.
  • The above re-structuring of the qualification into modules applies to Year 1 of the 2-Year occupational qualification.

Examinations – Examinations, Re-Examinations and Summative Examinations will be conducted in-person at pre-determined examination venues (unless otherwise informed).

Three Examination Papers will be set. The pre-requisites to gain entry to the examinations are as follows:

  • Examination Paper 1 – Learners must complete Knowledge Modules 1 to 4.
  • Examination Paper 2 – Learners must complete Knowledge Modules 5 to 6.
  • Examination Paper 3 – Learners must complete Knowledge Modules 7 to 8.

Three Re-Examination Papers will be set. The pre-requisites to gain entry to the re-examinations are as follows:

  • Re-Examination Paper 1 – Mark between 45% to < 50% for Examination Paper 1.
  • Re-Examination Paper 2 – Mark between 45% to <50% for Examination Paper 2.
  • Re-Examination Paper 3 – Mark between 45% to <50% for Examination Paper 3.

Two Summative Examination Papers will be set. The pre-requisites to gain entry to the summative examinations are as follows:

  • Summative Examination Paper 1:
    • Learners failed a relevant re-examination paper.
    • Learners successfully completed Knowledge Modules 1 to 5.
  • Summative Examination Paper 2:
    • Learners failed a relevant re-examination paper.
    • Learners successfully complete Knowledge Modules 6 to 8.

Informal and Formal Tests

  • Informal and formal online tests are set for each Knowledge module (KM).
  • The informal and formal online tests form part of the requirements to successfully complete a Knowledge module (KM).

Practical Assessments

The requirements for a 2-week Practical module (PM) include;

  • Complete pre-practical assignments / tasks in preparation for the 2-week, full-time practical sessions.
  • Written and verbal assessments will be conducted during the 2-week practical sessions.
  • Complete daily practical tasks / scenarios.
  • Each learner must complete a comprehensive report on the practical session, etc. 

A Pass Mark of 50% applies to:

  • All informal and formal tests.
  • All examinations, re-examinations, and summative examinations.
  • All practical assessments.

Examinations – Examinations, Re-Examinations and Summative Examinations will be conducted in-person at pre-determined examination venues (unless otherwise informed).

Three Examination Papers will be set. The pre-requisites to gain entry to the examinations are as follows:

  • Examination Paper 1 – Learners must complete Knowledge Modules 1 to 4.
  • Examination Paper 2 – Learners must complete Knowledge Modules 5 to 6.
  • Examination Paper 3 – Learners must complete Knowledge Modules 7 to 8.

Three Re-Examination Papers will be set. The pre-requisites to gain entry to the re-examinations are as follows:

  • Re-Examination Paper 1 – Mark between 45% to < 50% for Examination Paper 1.
  • Re-Examination Paper 2 – Mark between 45% to <50% for Examination Paper 2.
  • Re-Examination Paper 3 – Mark between 45% to <50% for Examination Paper 3.

Two Summative Examination Papers will be set. The pre-requisites to gain entry to the summative examinations are as follows:

  • Summative Examination Paper 1:
    • Learners failed a relevant re-examination paper.
    • Learners successfully completed Knowledge Modules 1 to 5.
  • Summative Examination Paper 2:
    • Learners failed a relevant re-examination paper.
    • Learners successfully complete Knowledge Modules 6 to 8.

Informal and Formal Tests

  • Informal and formal online tests are set for each Knowledge module (KM).
  • The informal and formal online tests form part of the requirements to successfully complete a Knowledge module (KM).

Practical Assessments

The requirements for a 2-week Practical module (PM) include;

  • Complete pre-practical assignments / tasks in preparation for the 2-week, full-time practical sessions.
  • Written and verbal assessments will be conducted during the 2-week practical sessions.
  • Complete daily practical tasks / scenarios.
  • Each learner must complete a comprehensive report on the practical session, etc. 

A Pass Mark of 50% applies to:

  • All informal and formal tests.
  • All examinations, re-examinations, and summative examinations.
  • All practical assessments.

Please Note:

  • The weighting of the formal tests (per module), as a contribution to the final year mark (i.e. year 1) for the knowledge modules, differs based on the credit allocations of the individual modules.
  • The weighting of the individual examination papers, as a contribution to the final examination mark for Year 1 (of the qualification), differs based on the credit allocations of the individual modules constituting the specific examination.
  • The weighting of the individual practical sessions, as a contribution to the final practical mark for year 1, differs based on the credit allocations for individual practical sessions.
  • All applicants interested in completing the occupational qualification must read / consult the ‘Course Rules and Regulations’ on the WBC website at Qualification Rules & Regulations – Water Business College The tables (Tables 1, 2 and 3) provide details on the scheduling of the knowledge and practical modules as well as the examinations.
  • Register and pay for a specific Period per Knowledge (KM) module (see Table 1).
    • Each Knowledge module (KM) will be offered on three (3) different periods during an academic year.
    • Learners indicate / select one (1) Period per Knowledge module (KM).
    • Registered learners will only be enrolled for the specific Period per Knowledge module (KM).
    • The learning material for each of the periods per module is exactly the same.
  • Register and pay for a specific Period per Practical (PM) module (see Table 2).
    • Each Practical module (PM) will be offered on three (3) different periods during an academic year.
    • Learners indicate / select one (1) Period per Practical module (PM).
    • Registered learners will only be enrolled for the specific Period per Practical module (PM)
    • The learning material for each of the periods per module is exactly the same.
  • Register & Pay per Examination / Re-Examination / Summative Examination (see Table 3).
    • Each examination will be offered on three (3) different dates during an academic year.
    • All examinations will be conducted in-person at a venue determined by WBC.
    • Learners select and pay per examination date.

Please Note: Learners must carefully consider the pre-requisites to gain entry to the practical sessions, examinations, etc. prior to registering and paying for the knowledge and practical modules.

TABLE 1. INFORMATION ON KNOWLEDGE MODULES (KM01 TO KM08)

QUALIFICATION 

WATER RETICULATION PRACTITIONER

          

SAQA QUAL ID

102581

          

NQF LEVEL

NQF Level 04

          
            
       

CONTACT

  

FORMAL

 

CODE

KNOWLEDGE MODULES

PERIODS*

NQF LEVEL

CREDITS

DAYS

WEEKS

SESSIONS

ASSIGNMENTS

PRE-READING

TESTS

PRACTICAL

642605001-KM-01

Workplace fundamentals

4 July 2023 – 24 July 2023

3

5

6

1

5

1

Yes

1

 

4 Sept 2023 – 26 Sept 2023

5

6

1

5

1

Yes

1

 

5 March 2024 – 25 March 2024

5

6

1

5

1

Yes

1

 

642605001-KM-02

The world of the Water Reticulation Practitioner

25 July 2023 – 7 Aug 2023

4

6

8

2

3

1

Yes

1

 

27 Sept 2023 – 9 Oct 2023

6

8

2

3

1

Yes

1

 

26 March 2024 – 8 April 2024

6

8

2

3

1

Yes

1

 

642605001-KM-03

Tools, equipment and electronic devices

8 Aug 2023 – 21 Aug 2023

3

5

6

1

3

1

Yes

1

Yes

11 Oct 2023 – 23 Oct 2023

5

6

1

3

1

Yes

1

Yes

9 April 2024 – 22 April 2024

5

6

1

3

1

Yes

1

Yes

642605001-KM-04

Basic slinging and lifting operations

22 Aug 2023- 4 Sep 2023

2

5

6

1

4

1

Yes

1

Yes

25 Oct 2023 – 13 Nov 2023

5

6

1

4

1

Yes

1

Yes

23 April 2024 – 6 May 2024

5

6

1

4

1

Yes

1

Yes

642605001-KM-05

Water reticulation systems

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

642605001-KM-05.1

Intro maths, groundwater and water supply systems

3 Oct 2023 – 30 Oct 2023

4

5

6

1

7

3

Yes

1

Yes

6 Dec 2023 – 29 Jan 2024

5

6

1

7

3

Yes

1

Yes

28 May 2024 -24 June 2024

5

6

1

7

3

Yes

1

Yes

642605001-KM-05.2

Water sampling & water quality

31 Oct 2023 – 13 Nov 2023

4

3

4

1

4

1

Yes

1

Yes

31 Jan 2024- 19 Feb 2024

3

4

1

4

1

Yes

1

Yes

25 June 2024- 8 July 2024

3

4

1

4

1

Yes

1

Yes

642605001-KM-05.3

Maps, engineered drawings and hydraulics

14 Nov 2023 – 11 Dec 2023

4

6

7

1

8

3

Yes

1

Yes

21 Feb 2024 – 25 March 2024

6

7

1

8

3

Yes

1

Yes

9 July 2024 – 5 August 2024

6

7

1

8

3

Yes

1

Yes

642605001-KM-05.4

Connecting the customer to the reticulation system

16 Jan 2024 – 5 Feb 2024

4

4

4

1

5

1

Yes

1

Yes

27 March 2024 – 22 April 2024

4

4

1

5

1

Yes

1

Yes

6 August 2024 – 26 August 2024

4

4

1

5

1

Yes

1

Yes

642605001-KM-06

Pipes, piping, and pipe joining

6 Feb 2024 – 19 Feb 2024

3

6

8

2

4

1

Yes

1

Yes

24 April 2024 – 13 May 2024

6

8

2

4

1

Yes

1

Yes

27 August 2024 – 9 Sept 2024

6

8

2

4

1

Yes

1

Yes

642605001-KM-07

Pipe laying, valves, actuators, pumps and water meters

26 March 2024 – 22 April 2024

4

9

11

2

7

2

Yes

2

Yes

5 June 2024 – 1 July 2024

9

11

2

7

2

Yes

2

Yes

1 Oct 2024 – 28 Oct 2024

9

11

2

7

2

Yes

2

Yes

642605001-KM-08

Operating and maintaining a water reticulation system

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

642605001-KM-08.1

Planning – Repair Work & Water Loss / Water Leaks

23 April 2024 – 6 May 2024

4

5

6

1

3

1

Yes

1

Yes

3 July 2024 – 15 July 2024

5

6

1

3

1

Yes

1

Yes

29 Oct 2024 – 11 Nov 2024

5

6

1

3

1

Yes

1

Yes

642605001-KM-08.2

Maintaining Valves, Pumps, Water Meters & Teamwork

7 May 2024 – 20 May 2024

4

7

9

2

4

1

Yes

1

Yes

17 July 2024 – 31 July 2024

7

9

2

4

1

Yes

1

Yes

12 Nov 2024 – 25 Nov 2024

7

9

2

4

1

Yes

1

Yes

 

TOTAL CREDITS for KNOWLEDGE MODULES

 

 

65

81

16

57

25

 

17

 
 

* Periods may change due to unforeseen circumstances

          

TABLE 2. INFORMATION ON PRACTICAL MODULES (PM01 TO PM03)

QUALIFICATION 

WATER RETICULATION PRACTITIONER

SAQA QUAL ID

102581

NQF LEVEL

NQF Level 04

CODE

PRACTICAL MODULES – YEAR 1

PERIODS*

 

CREDITS

DAYS

WEEKS

ON-SITE

PREPARATION

REPORT

MODULES

642605001-PM-01

On-Site Practical 1 – Water Reticulation Systems

26 Feb 2024 – 8 Mar 2024

4

17

21

4

2 Weeks

1 Week

2 Weeks

KM01 to KM05

14 May 2024 – 24 May 2024

17

21

4

2 Weeks

1 Week

2 Weeks

10 Sept 2024 – 20 Sept 2024

17

21

4

2 Weeks

1 Week

2 Weeks

642605001-PM-02

On-Site Practical 2 – Operation & Maintenance

27 May 2024 – 7 June 2024

4

17

21

4

2 Weeks

1 Week

2 Weeks

KM06 to KM08

5 Aug 2024 – 16 Aug 2024

17

21

4

2 Weeks

1 Week

2 Weeks

26 Nov 2024 – 6 Dec 2024

17

21

4

2 Weeks

1 Week

2 Weeks

642605001-PM-03

Practical 3 – Know your Water Reticulation System

Ongoing

 

23

29

6

N/A

Sessions

2 Weeks

Prac’s 1 & 2

 

TOTAL CREDITS for PRACTICAL MODULES

 

 

57

157

31

    
 

* Periods may change due to unforeseen circumstances

         

 

TABLE 3. INFORMATION ON EXAMINATIONS

QUALIFICATION 

WATER RETICULATION PRACTITIONER

SAQA QUAL ID

102581

NQF LEVEL

NQF Level 04

EXAMINATION PAPERS – YEAR 1

DATES*

TIMES*

MODULES

MARKS

Examination / Paper 1

18-Sep-23

13h00 – 16h00

1 to 4

150

27-Nov-23

13h00 – 16h00

1 to 4

150

20-May-24

13h00 – 16h00

1 to 4

150

Examination / Paper 2

11-Mar-24

13h00 – 16h00

5 & 6

150

27-May-24

13h00 – 16h00

5 & 6

150

23-Sep-24

13h00 – 16h00

5 & 6

150

Examination / Paper 3

10-Jun-24

13h00 – 16h00

7 & 8

150

19-Aug-24

13h00 – 16h00

7 & 8

150

13-Jan-25

13h00 – 16h00

7 & 8

150

RE-EXAMINATIONS

Re-Examination / Paper 1

29-Sep-23

13h00 – 16h00

1 to 4

150

04-Dec-23

13h00 – 16h00

1 to 4

150

27-May-24

13h00 – 16h00

1 to 4

150

Re-Examination / Paper 2

22-Mar-24

13h00 – 16h00

5 & 6

150

03-Jun-24

13h00 – 16h00

5 & 6

150

30-Sep-24

13h00 – 16h00

5 & 6

150

Re-Examination / Paper 3

17-Jun-24

13h00 – 16h00

7 & 8

150

26-Aug-24

13h00 – 16h01

7 & 8

150

20-Jan-25

13h00 – 16h02

7 & 8

150

SUMMATIVE EXAMINATIONS

Summative Examination / Paper 1

24-Jun-24

13h00 – 16h00

1 to 5

150

02-Sep-24

13h00 – 16h00

1 to 5

150

03-Feb-25

13h00 – 16h00

1 to 5

150

Summative Examination / Paper 2

28-Jun-24

13h00 – 16h00

6 to 8

150

06-Sep-24

13h00 – 16h00

6 to 8

150

10-Feb-25

13h00 – 16h00

6 to 8

150

* Dates and Times may be change due to unforeseen circumstances

In general, the beneficiaries / target groups for the occupational qualifications are:

    • Water practitioners / Technical staff in the private and public sectors: Technical staff seeking to formalise their knowledge and years of experience with an occupational qualification or qualified professionals seeking to expand their knowledge / skills.
  • Young persons / scholars looking to enter the workforce through entry-level occupational qualifications in the water services sector.
  • Graduates in the water services and water resources sector as well as those qualified in related engineering and/or science disciplines.

Water Business College (WBC) recognises and will meet the national requirements for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Any qualifying learner can achieve / obtain the occupational qualification on completion of all the knowledge and practical modules as well as the examinations for year 1 and the workplace skills modules for year 2.

Interested practitioners / technical staff (not interested in completing a full qualification) can register for individual knowledge modules and/or practical modules and on completion receive a ‘Certificate of Completion’ for the module. Such persons register and complete individual knowledge and practical modules for continuous development / self-development. All the requirements for the knowledge and practical modules must be completed to obtain a Certificate of Completion for the module. 

The new occupational qualifications are capital intensive to implement. As a result, a minimum number of registered learners per period per module is required for the specific module to proceed.

  • All applicants interested in completing the occupational qualification must read / consult the ‘Course Rules and Regulations’ on the WBC website at Qualification Rules & Regulations – Water Business College The tables (at the end of the document) provide details on the scheduling of the knowledge and practical modules as well as the examinations.
  • Complete the Application Form (Occupational Qualification Application Form – Water Business College) and attach a certified copy of your ID as well as certified copies of your NSC / Matric certificate and / or certified copies of other relevant educational qualifications.
  • Water Business College (WBC) staff will assess all applications. 
  • Successful applicants will be informed via an email message (with a formal invitation letter attached).
  • Successful applicants will also receive login details to gain access to the knowledge and practical modules (and short courses) available / posted on the WBC website. 
  • Further knowledge and practical modules as well as examination information will be timeously posted on the WBC website when available. 
  • Applicants should carefully select (and pay for) a minimum of one (1) module. Applicants are advised to select (and pay for) a maximum of four (4) modules at a time. 

Water Business College (WBC) reserves the right to, due to unforeseen circumstances, cancel a module and/or reschedule the specific period for a module as well as to change / replace the facilitator up to ten (10) days prior to the scheduled module period. Learners will be fully reimbursed should a specific module be cancelled.

  • All applicants / practitioners only interested in completing individual knowledge and practical modules must read / consult the ‘Course Rules and Regulations’ on the WBC website at Qualification Rules & Regulations – Water Business College The tables (at the end of the document) provide details on the scheduling of the knowledge and practical modules as well as the examinations.
  • Applicants must ‘click’ on the relevant knowledge and/or practical module and complete the billing information required.
  • Information for the module will be available during the period that the module is offered.

Water Business College (WBC) reserves the right to, due to unforeseen circumstances, cancel a module and/or reschedule the specific period for a module as well as to change / replace the facilitator up to ten (10) days prior to the scheduled module period. Learners will be fully reimbursed should a specific module be cancelled.

  • Brief information on the short course will be displayed by positioning the mouse over the relevant short course.
  • Applicants must ‘click’ on the relevant short course and complete the billing information required.
  • Information for the short course will be available on the day that the short course is offered.

Water Business College (WBC) reserves the right to, due to unforeseen circumstances, cancel a short course and/or reschedule the short course date as well as to change / replace the presenter up to ten (10) days prior to the scheduled course date. Participants will be fully reimbursed should the short course be cancelled.

Water Business College (PTY) Ltd (WBC) is accredited as a Skills Development Provider (Accreditation Number QCTOSDP01200724-2088) by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) to offer the following occupational qualifications at NQF Levels 4 and 8 focussing on the water services sector (please see QCTO accreditation letter at: QCTO Accreditation Letter – Water Business College):

  • Water Reticulation Practitioner, (SAQA ID 102581 – NQF Level 04)
  • Water Infrastructure Manager, (SAQA ID 104623 – NQF Level 08)

WBC commenced with the implementation of a Pilot Programme for the entry-level Water Reticulation Practitioner Qualification (NQF 04) during May 2022 enrolling a limited number of learners. These learners, located in different provinces, are employed full-time in both the public and private sectors. 

WBC also developed / built a ‘hands-on’ / practical laboratory (i.e., a prototype water reticulation system) to simulate (for training purposes) the water reticulation processes / systems of water service providers (i.e. municipalities) and private industry (eg. mines, industrial plants, etc). 

  • Learners are required to 4 weeks in total during year 1 (in the form of two, 2-week sessions) for in-person, hands-on training at our practical site (please refer to the video link). Please see a video of our practical site by accessing the following YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RndYrlr6L7Q  The practical site (implemented and tested during the pilot phase) is dis-assembled currently and will be operational again before the first formal practical session.

WBC intends to formally offer these qualifications from 2023 onwards. 

We currently operate from an administrative office that we share with an engineering company (Office H4, The Willows Office Park, Die Wilgers, Pretoria). The Willows Park Office is mainly used for online classes.

WBC will implement a blended / hybrid learning strategy with a mix of primarily online, as well as in-person learning programmes. 

The knowledge modules (KM) will be offered on-line in two 2-hour online sessions, at least twice a week during the afternoons (Online lectures are currently scheduled for Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 17h00 to 19h00). 

The practical modules (PM) will be scheduled and offered in-person at a practical site. The in-person and full-time attendance of two, 2-week practical sessions at a venue determined by WBC are compulsory.

Practical Site / Laboratory – WBC developed / built a ‘hands-on’ / practical laboratory (i.e., a prototype water reticulation system) to simulate (for training purposes) the water reticulation processes / systems of water service providers (i.e. municipalities) and private industry (eg. mines, industrial plants, etc). 

  • Learners are required to attend two, 2-week practical sessions (4 weeks in total during the academic year) for in-person, hands-on training at our practical site. Please see a video of our practical site by accessing the following YouTube link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RndYrlr6L7Q 

Please Note: WBC has recently dissembled the practical site after calibration of the instruments and the conducting of two practical sessions during the pilot programme. The practical site will be re-assembled, at a more appropriate locality, in time of the next practical sessions.

(Future) Decentralised Operations – Water Business College (WBC) will establish appropriate infrastructure and operations in regions / provinces where there is a demand for these qualifications / training programmes. We visited several engineering companies in various provinces with the intention to share infrastructure to support the implementation of the qualifications (specifically for the practical modules).

Water Business College (WBC) currently operates from the offices of a specialist engineering company in Lynnwood Pretoria. Contact details are available on our website and in our brochure.

WBC will establish required infrastructure where there is a demand for our academic programmes.

We prefer to handle all administrative matters through the following communication channels:

  • Email address is: contactus@waterbusinesscollege.co.za

The Willows Park Office (Office H4, The Willows Office Park, Die Wilgers, Pretoria) is mainly used for online classes. 

Yes.

  • Business have incorporated training into their business models to cultivate a workforce that is competent with the critical skills to attain company goals / objectives.
  • Re-skilling and up-skilling programmes enhance the knowledge and skills base of employees and offers staff the opportunity to formalise their practical ‘know-how’ and experience.
  • Corporate training programmes increase job satisfaction, enhance employee performance and productivity, and reduce staff turn-over.

Water Business College (WBC) commenced with the implementation of a Pilot Programme for the entry-level Water Reticulation Practitioner Qualification (NQF Level 04) during April / May 2022.

An online platform (i.e. Microsoft Teams) was utilised (involving a limited number of learners) to establish the practice for online lectures and the administration of assignments. The pilot programme was also launched to address (and refine) potential operational, logistical and administrative challenges (including financial challenges for learners) that may arise with the formal roll-out of the entry-level Water Reticulation Practitioner Qualification. The online lectures were / are scheduled every Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 17h00 to 19h00. Assignments were / are issued and completed on a weekly basis.

Water Business College (WBC) opted to enrol a small number (5) of learners for the pilot programme. The attributes for the initial learner group are as follows:

  • The learners are employed full-time in both the public and private sectors.
  • The learners are located in different provinces, including rural areas.
  • An RPL process was applied for several learners.

Water Business College (WBC) currently employs a technical director and appointed two component, young engineers with appropriate qualifications and relevant experience w.r.t. water treatment / water processing and water reticulation (during the pilot programme).

The first ‘hands-on’ laboratory / field site (i.e. a prototype water reticulation system with telemetry systems) was built to simulate, for training purposes, the water reticulation processes / systems of especially water service providers (i.e. municipalities) as well as the water reticulation processes for industries (eg. mines).

Two, 2-week practical sessions were conducted during the pilot implementation phase. These practical sessions resulted in the development and updating of a practical manual.

Water Business College (WBC) renewed the rental agreement to utilised Unit H4 (Willows Office Park) for online lectures. 

WBC also rented a 200m2 unit at N4 Gateway, Pretoria to establish the first hands-on’ laboratory / field site (i.e. to build the prototype water reticulation system under roof).

WBC partnered with FESTO DIDACTIC (please see video on water processing at: Blog Page – Water Business College). The partnership with FESTO DIDACTIC will enable Water Business College to apply the latest technology, software and virtual reality simulations to deliver the knowledge, practical and workplace experience modules for the above-mentioned and other qualifications.

Partnership agreements were concluded with established financial institutions offering affordable student loans, including MANATI and FUNDI.

WBC is also developing a WBC student loan agreement to cater for learners that can’t afford the financial terms / requirements of MANATI and FUNDI.

The lessons learnt during the pilot programme led WBC to develop and implement the Non-Contractual, Modular ‘Pay-As-You-Learn’ (MPAYL) system (see link: Qualification Rules & Regulations – Water Business College).

No, all applications are subjected to a rigorous selection process based on a number of factors, including a limit on the number of places available per intake period.

There has been a steady stream of applications for the NQF Level 4 Qualification – Water Reticulation Practitioner. 

No application fees will be charged, and the submission of an application form is not binding on the prospective learner and/or sponsor.

To apply (online) for the please follow the link: Occupational Qualification Application Form – Water Business College

Not yet. A new occupational qualification on water processing was published in 2022.

WBC will apply (during 2023) to the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) for accreditation to implement additional occupational qualifications at different National Qualifications Framework (NQF) levels, including the qualification on water processing.

Water Business College (WBC) recognises and will meet the national requirements for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). 

  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), applicable to all qualifications, will be based (amongst other factors) on an applicant’s:
    • Informal learning or non-accredited formal studies are assessed as being equivalent to the prerequisite qualification.
    • Work experience (a minimum of 3 years’ experience within the industry in conjunction with the academic record of the candidate).
    • Implementation of advanced standing in instances where the candidate does not meet the minimum entry requirements.
    • Relevant modules that have been successfully completed at other accredited Higher Education Institutions where modules are equivalent in content and standard to the comparable modules offered in the qualification.
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for access to a Qualification: Where applicable, exemption cases are dealt with in accordance with the Policy for the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). The final responsibility rests with the Board of Water Business College (assisted by the relevant programme / specialisation leader) and the Approved Workplaces (where relevant) in the application of the policy.
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment must be confirmed by both the Board of Water Business College as well as Approved Workplaces (where relevant) by applying relevant Internal Assessment Criteria to establish and confirm prior learning.
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) applications will be assessed (where relevant) in consultation with the Assessment Quality Partner (AQP) and/or the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO).
  • The RPL process will be more rigorous in circumstances where there is a significant difference between the current academic standing of the applicant and the NQF level of the intended qualification.

In summary, the assessment / evaluation of an applicant’s Portfolio of Evidence (i.e. relevant and credible work experience, prior educational modules / history, etc.) is a rigorous / intensive process that involves the academic institution(s) as well as the regulating authorities (where relevant) for the qualification. The RPL process may additionally include an interview with the applicant, a questionnaire to the applicants’ employer (based on the applicant’s Portfolio of Evidence) and a requirement for the applicant to complete an independent project / assignment based on the learning outcomes for the qualification.

The RPL (or ARPL) applicant submits / uploads supporting documentation during the application process for an occupational qualification – please follow the link: Application Procedures – Water Business College

The following components constitute the RPL (or ARPL) application:

  1. The RPL (or ARPL) applicant must provide a Letter of Recommendation from (signed by) their immediate supervisor, manager, etc. supporting the application for enrolment to a specific occupational qualification. The Letter of Recommendation must contain the following:
  • The RPL (or ARPL) applicant’s full name and ID number.
  • The specific occupational qualification of interest to the applicant.
  • A motivation supporting the application of the applicant.

Confirmation by the immediate supervisor, manager, etc. that the Portfolio of Evidence (POE) submitted by the applicant is true and correct.

2. Portfolio of Evidence (POE): The RPL (or ARPL) applicant must submit / upload short descriptions of a maximum of three (3) relevant projects that the applicant was involved with or completed. Each project description (3 in total) should not exceed one (1) page and should contain / include the following: 

  • Applicant’s full name.
  • Project title and project dates.
  • Applicant’s role / position on the project (i.e. assistant, technician, supervisor, etc.).
  • Brief project description. 
  • Responsibilities or tasks assigned to the applicant on the project.
  • Two contactable references with contact details (email and telephone number).

3.  A short CV of the RPL (or ARPL) applicant.

Relevant certificates that the applicant obtained.

You can then apply for the NQF Level 04 qualification (Water Reticulation). There will still be a selection process since the new Occupational Certificate qualifications differ from older qualifications. 

Please apply at Occupational Qualification Application Form – Water Business College

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You can then opt to apply for the NQF Level 04 qualification (Water Reticulation). There will still be a selection process since the new Occupational Certificate qualifications differ from older qualifications. 

Please apply at Occupational Qualification Application Form – Water Business College.

New occupational qualifications at higher NQF Levels for the water services sector will be published during 2022 / 2023.

Water Business College (WBC) is a private educational institution and does not receive any funding / subsidies from the South African Government.

Students enrolling at any private, higher education institution do not qualify for NFSAS funding / loan.

WBC is implementing the Non-Contractual, Modular ‘Pay-As-You-Learn’ (MPAYL) system (see link: Qualification Rules & Regulations – Water Business College). 

WBC concluded partnership agreements with (and outsourced the financial management functions to) established and registered financial institutions offering affordable student loans, including MANATI and FUNDI. These leading student funding organisations provide affordable funding solutions for prospective students who wish to study at higher education institutions but are unable to do so because they cannot afford it or cannot secure financing.

WBC is also considering / developing a WBC student loan agreement to cater for learners that can’t afford the financial terms / requirements of MANATI and FUNDI.