ACTOM Apprenticeship 2027 Checklist

1. Minimum requirements

For 2027, prepare for requirements similar to ACTOM’s previous apprenticeship intake:

• South African citizen/eligible applicant as specified in the official advert

• 12 school results/certificate or

• NATED qualifications or

• NCV qualification

• Relevant Mathematics/Physical Science/technical subjects may be required depending on the trade

• Relevant N-level/trade theory qualifications may be advantageous or required for certain trades

• Ability to work in an industrial/manufacturing environment

• Willingness to complete both theoretical and practical training

• Ability to pass ACTOM’s selection and assessment process

Important: ACTOM’s current application page specifically says applicants must have certified copies of their NATED/NCV qualifications or 12 certificate/results ready.

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2. Trades to prepare for

ACTOM Training Centre currently identifies apprenticeship training as one of its programmes. Its documented trade-training areas include:

The older ACTOM Training Centre profile specifically lists Electrician, Metal Machinist, Mechanical Fitter, Tool/Jig & Die Maker and Fitter & Turner, while also identifying Boilermaker and Welding training needs. The 2027 advert should be checked for the exact trades available that year.

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3. Main apprenticeship duties

The exact duties depend on your trade, but you can expect a combination of theoretical training + practical workplace training.

⚡ Electrical Apprentice

Typical duties include:

• Assist with electrical installations.

• Read electrical diagrams and drawings.

• Test electrical equipment and circuits.

• Assist with fault-finding.

• Perform preventative maintenance.

• Work with motors, control equipment and electrical systems.

• Follow electrical safety procedures.

• Complete theoretical modules and practical competencies.

• Keep training records/logbooks up to date.

🔧 Mechanical Fitter Apprentice

• Assemble and disassemble machinery.

• Install mechanical components.

• Perform preventative maintenance.

• Inspect machinery for defects.

• Replace worn components.

• Use hand and power tools.

• Measure components accurately.

• Read engineering drawings.

• Assist qualified artisans.

• Follow workplace safety procedures.

⚙️ Fitter & Turner Apprentice

• Operate engineering machinery.

• Perform turning and machining operations.

• Manufacture mechanical components.

• Read technical drawings.

• Measure components using precision instruments.

• Perform fitting and assembly.

• Maintain workshop equipment.

• Learn machining tolerances and procedures.

🔥 Boilermaker Apprentice

• Read fabrication drawings.

• Measure and mark materials.

• Cut and prepare metal.

• Fabricate structures and components.

• Assemble steel components.

• Assist with welding and fabrication.

• Perform inspections and repairs.

• Follow safety procedures.

🔩 Welding Apprentice

• Prepare materials for welding.

• Perform different welding processes.

• Read engineering drawings.

• Set up welding equipment.

• Inspect welds.

• Repair defective welds.

• Maintain welding equipment.

• Follow PPE and safety requirements.

🛠️ Tool, Jig & Die Maker

• Manufacture precision tooling.

• Read engineering drawings.

• Machine components.

• Use measuring equipment.

• Assemble and maintain tools, jigs and dies.

• Work to tight tolerances.

• Inspect finished components.

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4. Stipend 💰

2027 ACTOM stipend: TBC.

I would not rely on a specific rand amount circulating on social media until ACTOM publishes it for the 2027 intake.

ACTOM’s training profile confirms that where learners are hosted by participating companies, the respective employers pay the learner stipend, and the employers also provide COIDA coverage.

So your 2027 application should be checked for:

• Monthly stipend

• Duration of apprenticeship

• Employer/host company

• Benefits

• COIDA/workplace insurance arrangements

• Whether transport/meals/PPE are provided