Northlink College ARPL for Boilermaker, Diesel & Welder – 31 Aug 2026

If you have spent years working as a boilermaker, diesel mechanic, motor mechanic or welder but still lack a formal artisan qualification, you can turn that experience into recognised status now – thanks to a merSETA‑funded programme at Northlink TVET College.

What the opportunity is

Northlink TVET College has received funding from the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA (merSETA) to support qualified applicants through the Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) process. The funding will cover the assessment costs for workers who already have practical experience in the four listed trades.

Who can apply (Eligibility)

• Age 19 years or older
• Minimum three (3) years of relevant South African industry experience in the trade you are applying for
• Currently unemployed
• South African work experience only – overseas experience will not be counted
• Must be able to provide the documents listed below

What you gain

Successful applicants will be guided through the ARPL assessment. If you meet the standards, you will receive a nationally recognised artisan qualification in one of the four trades. This formal qualification can improve your job prospects, enable higher wages and give you access to further training. The programme does not guarantee a job or a stipend; it only funds the qualification pathway.

How to apply (Step‑by‑step)

1. Gather the required documents:
   • Updated CV
   • One or more service letters that clearly show the employer, your role, dates of employment and the work you performed in the chosen trade
   • Certified copy of your ID (no older than three months)
   • Certified copy of your highest qualification (no older than three months)
2. Ensure every document is legible. Scan rather than photograph.
3. Save each file with a clear name, for example John_Doe_ID.pdf and John_Doe_Qualification.pdf.
4. Compose an email to madams@northlink.co.za. Use a subject line such as “ARPL Application – Welder – John Doe”.
5. Attach all four documents to the email and send it before the deadline.

Tips to improve your chances

• Apply early. The notice says places are limited per trade and recruitment is first‑come, first‑served until targets are reached.
• Match the trade on your CV to the trade on your service letters. Do not apply for a different trade just because the work overlaps.
• Double‑check that your service letters cover at least three years of South African experience in the specific trade.
• Make sure the ID and qualification copies are certified and dated within the last three months.
• Proofread your email and attachments before sending. A broken attachment can delay your application.

Conclusion – next steps

If you meet the criteria, there is no reason to wait until the 31 August 2026 deadline. Prepare your documents now, send your application to the address above, and you could be on the path to a recognised artisan qualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Northlink TVET College merSETA opportunity? It funds the ARPL process for eligible applicants to become qualified artisans in the four listed trades.
2. Which trades are funded? Boilermaker, Diesel Mechanic, Motor Mechanic and Welder.
3. Do I need work experience? Yes – at least three years of relevant South African experience in the specific trade.
4. Can I apply if I am currently employed? No. Applicants must be unemployed at the time of application.
5. Is there an age limit? The minimum age is 19 years; there is no upper limit.
6. Will overseas experience count? No. Only South African work experience is accepted.
7. Do I need a Matric certificate? The notice does not require a specific school qualification, but you must submit a certified copy of your highest qualification.
8. Are certified documents mandatory? Yes. Both the ID and the qualification copy must be certified and no older than three months.
9. Is there a stipend? The advert does not mention any stipend or allowance.
10. Will completing ARPL guarantee a job? No. The programme only provides the qualification; employment is not guaranteed.
11. When does the application close? 31 August 2026 at 16:00, but early submission is advised.
12. Where do I send my application? Email all required documents to madams@northlink.co.za.
13. Can I apply without service letters? No. Service letters confirming relevant trade experience are required.
14. What if I have no trade experience? This opportunity is not for beginners. Look for apprenticeships or learnerships instead.

Disclaimer

SETA SA is an independent education, career and opportunities information platform. SETA SA is not Northlink TVET College, merSETA or the Department of Higher Education and Training, and does not control recruitment, funding, assessment, shortlisting or selection.

The eligibility criteria and document requirements listed here are taken directly from the official Northlink TVET College notice. Applicants should verify all information with the college and follow the official instructions.

There is no application fee. Do not pay anyone who asks for money to guarantee selection.

Editorial Integrity

SETA SA presents opportunities using information published by official organisations. Where this article states requirements, dates, documents or application steps, it reflects the official notice. Where we give advice on CV preparation, email subjects, document organisation or application strategy, those are clearly labelled as SETA SA guidance and are not additional official requirements.

We do not create stipends, guaranteed jobs or other benefits that are not mentioned in the source material.

SETA SA IS A REGISTERED NON‑PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. SETA SA DOES NOT SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. USE THE SETA SA SCAM DETECTOR TOOL TO SPOT A SCAM BEFORE YOU APPLY.