Culture and Arts - Design Studies
The purpose of the qualification is to advance learners who can contribute to the economy of South Africa through the visual arts, specifically as jewellers and jewellery designers. The goal is to train individuals who can serve society in a more inclusive and diverse manner, whether through employment opportunities or entrepreneurial ventures. The qualification empowers learners with creative and technical skills such as visual and manual skills in jewellery design and manufacture, creativity and innovation, research skills, and conceptual and critical thinking. These skills prepare learners for careers in the creative or commercial jewellery industry, thereby contributing to the economy of South Africa.
Upon completion of this qualification, learners can pursue various career paths depending on their specializations, such as CAD designer, advanced bench worker, product developer, enamellist, jewellery retailer, artist jeweller, and others. The qualification aims to enhance employability in the jewellery industry by providing practical, intellectual, educational, and entrepreneurial skills that are applicable to a broad range of jewellery-related disciplines. Additionally, the incorporation of both practice-based and theory-based research components prepares candidates for academic pathways, enabling them to contribute to the knowledge base and economy of South Africa through further studies.
The qualification is designed to align with the requirements of the Higher Education Qualifications Sub-Framework (HEQSF) and industry standards, creating a coherent pathway for learners interested in pursuing vocational or academic careers in jewellery design and manufacture. It aims to support the development of skill, expertise, culture, and heritage within the South African jewellery industry by offering training related to the latest industry trends. The programme is intended to equip learners with advanced skills in jewellery design and manufacture that are relevant to the creative industries in a South African context.
By providing specialized training in areas such as Advanced CAD/CAM, alternative jewellery materials, and advanced manufacturing techniques, the qualification enhances graduates' employability and entrepreneurial capabilities. The inclusion of a professional practice module and an advanced theory module further prepares learners for industry-specific challenges and research opportunities. The qualification also aligns with the objectives of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) by offering advanced skills education that allows for career progression and contributes to government policies aimed at creating vocational pathways for learners in the creative industries.
This page includes information from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) . Builtneat Pty Ltd trading as Study Start, has modified all or some of this information. SAQA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.