SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

National Certificate: Rooibos Processing 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
50226  National Certificate: Rooibos Processing 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Secondary Agriculture: Processing 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
AgriSETA - Agriculture SETA  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 01 - Agriculture and Nature Conservation  Secondary Agriculture 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  121  Level 2  NQF Level 02  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 06120/18  2018-07-01  2023-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

The qualification provides learners with the opportunity to gain competence in Rooibos processing and will facilitate their securing employment in the industry. For those who are already employed on a Rooibos plantation, the multi-skilling that the qualification offers will open up a career path in the industry.

A learner achieving this qualification will be able to work effectively and productively within the Rooibos processing industry knowing:
  • The structure and supply chain of the Rooibos industry.
  • Health and safety principles for Rooibos processing.
  • The principles and practices for maintaining hygiene in Rooibos processing.
  • The procedures for the fermentation of Rooibos.
  • The procedures for processing Rooibos.
  • The value adding processes that are performed.
  • Quality assurance and good manufacturing practices for Rooibos.

    The qualification will facilitate multi-skilling, which in turn, will have a positive impact on the efficiency and productivity of the processing facilities.

    The combined commitment of the learners and employers in the achievement of this qualification will help alleviate the transient nature of the workers at this level, which will result in a skilled, stable and efficient workforce.

    Rationale:

    The qualification addresses the urgent need for the establishment of skills and accompanying standards that the industry required, especially within the SMME sector. This will allow them to operate on a more professional basis

    This qualification and the resultant skills that are learnt will have a positive contribution to the establishment of small processing plants.

    The qualification embodies the international requirements for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP), which will ensure that producers will be able to export Rooibos products to meet stringent international requirements. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Learners who would like to access this qualification should have demonstrated competency in Communication and Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 1.

    Recognition of Previous Learning:

    The qualification may be achieved in part or as a whole through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). This may include formal, non-formal learning and work experience. Where RPL is required the learner will need to prove competence in the specific area, or areas, in order to obtain recognition of these skills and knowledge. 

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of a minimum of 121 credits, composed of:
  • Fundamental: 36 - Compulsory for all learners.
  • Core: 65 - Compulsory for all learners.
  • Electives: 20 - Learners to choose unit standards totalling 20 credits from the listed elective standards. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Communicate effectively in the workplace.
    2. Utilise mathematical literacy correctly.
    3. Apply life skills in personal and community environments.
    4. Identify the characteristics that determine the grading of Rooibos.
    5. Prepare and ferment the Rooibos raw product.
    6. Pasteurise, flavour and package Rooibos.
    7. Demonstrate an understanding of the functioning of a quality assurance system for Rooibos processing.

    Critical Cross - Field Outcomes (CCFO's):

    The unit standards in the qualification are structured to contain specific and cross-field outcomes. The integration of the latter is vital to the full development and social upliftment of the learner. The critical cross-field outcomes are intended to guide the providers in developing the learning material.

    The relevant CCFO's include:
  • The learner is able to identify and solve problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made.
  • The learner is able to work effectively with others and demonstrate their willingness to be part of the team.
  • The learner is able to organise and manage themselves and their activities responsibly and effectively.
  • The learner is able to communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation.
  • The learner is able to collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.
  • The learner is able to use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
  • The learner is able to demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognizing that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    1.
  • Oral communication is carried out effectively in the workplace with clients and colleagues.
  • Reports are written for the workplace using appropriate language.

    2.
  • Number systems and rational and irrational numbers are related.
  • Workplace problems are solved using statistical data collected in the workplace.
  • Mathematics literacy is used to monitor and control finances.

    3.
  • Self management skills are demonstrated.
  • The preventative measures and implications of HIV/AIDS are explained.

    4.
  • The specifications used to evaluate and determine the grading of Rooibos are described.
  • Rooibos raw product is sampled and tested using industry processes and procedures.

    5.
  • The harvested Rooibos is cut to the specified lengths.
  • The procedures for spreading and bruising cut Rooibos are described.
  • The formation of fermentation heaps and monitoring of the fermentation process is explained.

    6.
  • The procedures for monitoring the steam temperature during the pasteurizing process are described.
  • The preparation of various flavourants to suit the client's requirements is demonstrated.
  • Rooibos products are bagged and packaged to the client's specifications.

    7.
  • The necessity of instituting a quality assurance system in a Rooibos processing plant is explained.
  • The contribution that a quality assurance system plays in the maintenance of high standards in Rooibos processing is explained.
  • The importance of following the standard operating procedures to ensure effective quality control is explained.

    Integrated assessment:

    The integrated assessment allows Learners the opportunity to show that they are able to utilize concepts, ideas and actions across unit standards. This will allow Learners to achieve competency that is in keeping with the purpose of the qualification.

    An integrated assessment will indicate how theoretical learning is demonstrated in a practical environment in such a way that the application of the work learnt becomes second nature.

    In conducting an assessment, the quality of the performance must also be evaluated i.e. both the performance and the thinking behind the action must be qualitative.

    The assessment should include both formative and summative options and should use various assessment tools i.e. not by observation only. It is suggested that a Portfolio of Assessment forms part of the summative assessment, with practical outcomes being demonstrated in a simulated or real work place situation.

    A broad range of task-orientated and theoretical tools may be used, with the distinction between practical knowledge and disciplinary knowledge being maintained.

    Unit Standards in the qualification must be used to assess the specific and Critical Cross- Field Outcomes. It is recommended that the assessment tools give Learners the opportunity to account for their decision-making and problem solving in line with the Specific Outcomes and related Assessment Criteria.

    As this qualification forms the foundation for a career in Rooibos production, learners should be assessed in occupational contexts and activities. The assessment should ensure that the foundational skills are portable and prepare them for further learning, whatever career path they may choose. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Rooibos tea production is unique to South Africa, which makes international comparability impossible. However, similarities exist between Rooibos production and Black Tea (Ceylon) production. This qualification was compared with training offered in Black Tea production and processing in Sri Lanka, India, Kenya and Malawi.

    While training in tea growing and processing in Kenya and Malawi is extensively done by the organisations and companies involved in the industry, no formal qualifications exist. However, it has been determined that the contents of the training given in those countries relates very closely to what is offered in this qualification.

    Competencies such as seed cultivation, soil preparation, plant propagation and tea processing form major parts of their training programmes. The South African qualification includes soil analyses which is not covered in Kenya and Malawi.

    Australia and New Zealand have well developed training programmes for Black Tea production and processing. The following Australian unit standards are recommended for use in their Tea processing industries. These were examined, and the notable similarities are:
  • Registration No FDFTCDC1A - Locate Industry and company products and processes (Tea and Coffee):

    > This level 1 unit standard covers the practices and procedures used in Tea and Coffee processing.
    > An emphasis on food safety and OHS (Occupational Health and Safety) is paramount for both their processes and those of Rooibos.
  • Registration No FDFTCBT2A - Blend Tea:

    > This level 2 unit standard covers the practices and procedures for the selection of various grades of Tea for blending.
    > The processes and procedures are comparable with those used for Rooibos.
  • Registration No FDFTC0S3A - Operate a system (Tea and Coffee):

    > This level 3 unit standard concerns the preparation and operation of Tea processing and packaging equipment.
    > The importance of monitoring and ensuring quality assurance in their processes, is also a prime function for Rooibos.
  • Registration No FDFZZPM1A - Pack product manually:

    > This level 1 unit standard covers all facets of manual packaging of processed goods for the food industry.
    > Various forms of packaging referred to in this unit standard, are similar to those used in Rooibos processing.
    > The emphasis placed on hygiene in the packaging environment is also a prime function of Rooibos processing and packaging.

    In conclusion, it would appear that the competencies developed in this qualification compare favourably with those offered in the countries researched. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification is designed to provide a structured learning path for employees in the Rooibos Processing industry in South Africa, be they in the employ of commercial businesses or as entrepreneurs.

    This qualification will enable horizontal articulation, where learners may move within the Rooibos industry, between the fields of Production and Processing.

    The learning areas in the qualification will facilitate horizontal articulation with the following:
  • National Certificate in Tea Production and Processing NQF level 2 (ID 48903)
  • National Certificate in Agri Trade processes NQF level 2 (ID 14851) 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    Anyone assessing a learner against these unit standards must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA and have experience, or in depth knowledge of the Rooibos industry.

    Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of these unit standards or will assess these unit standards must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA. Moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the moderation guidelines in the qualification and the agreed ETQA procedure.

    Therefore anyone wishing to be assessed against these unit standards may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution which is accredited by the relevant ETQA. 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Assessors must:
  • Be registered as an assessor by the relevant ETQA.
  • Have experience or in depth knowledge of the agricultural and food processing industry, specifically as it relates to the Rooibos sector.
  • Hold a qualification in Agriculture at NQF Level 3 or higher. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  123172  Apply health and safety in Rooibos production and processing  Level 2  NQF Level 02  7 
    Core  123160  Bruise, ferment and dry Rooibos cuttings  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Core  123156  Conduct post harvest cutting of Rooibos  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Core  8494  Demonstrate an understanding of HIV/AIDS and its implications  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Core  123165  Demonstrate an understanding of the Rooibos industry  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  123173  Demonstrate knowledge of hygiene practices in Rooibos production and processing  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Core  123251  Despatch packaged Rooibos products  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Core  123169  Flavour and pack Rooibos to clients' specifications  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Core  123167  Monitor the quality assurance in Rooibos processing  Level 2  NQF Level 02  8 
    Core  123164  Pasteurise, dry and bag Rooibos  Level 2  NQF Level 02  8 
    Core  123161  Receive and grade rooibos  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Core  123163  Screen and blend Rooibos  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  8963  Access and use information from texts  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  9009  Apply basic knowledge of statistics and probability to influence the use of data and procedures in order to investigate life related problems  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Fundamental  7480  Demonstrate understanding of rational and irrational numbers and number systems  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Fundamental  9008  Identify, describe, compare, classify, explore shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional shapes in different contexts  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Fundamental  8962  Maintain and adapt oral communication  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  8965  Respond to literary texts  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  7469  Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal and community life  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Fundamental  9007  Work with a range of patterns and functions and solve problems  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Fundamental  8964  Write for a defined context  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Elective  123158  Demonstrate an understanding of Rooibos culture practices  Level 2  NQF Level 02  12 
    Elective  116820  Drive a tractor  Level 2  NQF Level 02  10 
    Elective  9599  Lift and move material and equipment by means of a forklift  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  8000  Apply basic business principles  Level 3  NQF Level 03  9 


    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. College of Vocational Studies (Pty) Ltd 
    2. Envirocon Training Pty Ltd 
    3. New Hope Revival Organisation 
    4. Tsolo Agriculture and Rural Development Institute 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.