Welding Training School
From beginner to Red Seal certified artisan. Master Arc, TIG, and MIG welding with hands-on training, expert instructors, and guaranteed job placement support.
Build a High-Demand Career
Welding is one of South Africa's most sought-after trades with excellent earning potential and job security across multiple industries.
Excellent Earnings
Entry-level: R8,000-R12,000/month. Experienced: R15,000-R25,000/month. Red Seal certified: R25,000-R40,000+/month.
High Demand
Shortages in mining, construction, manufacturing, automotive, and oil & gas sectors ensure steady employment.
Quick Entry
Start working after just 5 days of basic training. Pursue full certification while earning.
Global Recognition
Red Seal certification opens doors worldwide. Work internationally or start your own business.
Types of Welding & Career Paths
Each welding process offers unique advantages and career opportunities. Learn which one matches your goals.
Arc Welding (SMAW)
Shielded Metal Arc Welding
The most versatile process. Perfect for construction, maintenance, and field repairs. Works on thick metals and outdoor environments.
Best for: Heavy industry, construction sites, pipeline work, structural steel.
MIG Welding (GMAW)
Gas Metal Arc Welding
Fast and efficient wire-feed process. Ideal for fabrication shops and production environments. Clean, strong welds with minimal cleanup.
Best for: Automotive repair, fabrication shops, manufacturing, sheet metal work.
TIG Welding (GTAW)
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding
Precision welding for highest quality. Essential for aerospace, motorsport, and specialized manufacturing. Highest paying specialty.
Best for: Aerospace, automotive performance, stainless steel, aluminum work, artistic fabrication.
Oxy-Acetylene
Gas Welding & Cutting
Traditional flame welding and cutting. Essential for repairs, maintenance, and artistic metalwork. Low equipment cost for independent contractors.
Best for: Maintenance work, artistic sculpture, cutting applications, small business owners.
💡 Our Recommendation
For maximum career flexibility and highest earning potential, we recommend completing our NQF Level 4 Artisan Programme which covers all four processes. This makes you a multi-skilled welder employable across all sectors, with the ability to command premium rates.
World-Class Facilities
Train with the same equipment you'll use in industry. Our modern workshops ensure you're job-ready from day one.
Welding Courses
From 5-day introductory courses to complete NQF4 Red Seal certification. Choose the path that fits your goals.
Basic Arc Welding (SMAW)
Perfect entry point to welding. Learn safety, equipment operation, and basic arc welding techniques. No experience required.
- Workshop safety and PPE
- Arc welding fundamentals
- Electrode selection
- Basic welding positions
- Equipment maintenance
MIG Welding (GMAW/CO2)
Master wire-feed welding for fabrication work. High-demand skill in manufacturing and automotive sectors.
- MIG process fundamentals
- Wire feed system operation
- Shielding gas selection
- Multi-position techniques
- Equipment setup
TIG Welding (GTAW)
High-precision welding for aerospace, automotive, and specialized applications. Command premium rates with TIG certification.
- TIG welding principles
- Tungsten electrode prep
- Stainless & aluminum welding
- Filler metal selection
- Clean welding techniques
Oxy-Acetylene Welding
Gas welding and cutting for repair, maintenance, and artistic work. Essential supplementary skill for all welders.
- Gas safety and handling
- Flame adjustment techniques
- Welding and cutting methods
- Brazing applications
- Equipment maintenance
Advanced TIG Training
Master all-position welding including 6G pipe welding. Essential for high-pressure pipeline and specialized fabrication work.
- All-position fillet welds
- Groove welds mastery
- 6G pipe welding techniques
- Advanced machine setup
- Quality control methods
NQF4 Welder Artisan Programme
Complete pathway to Red Seal welder certification. Master all processes with theory, practical skills, and workplace experience.
- All welding processes (SMAW, GTAW, GMAW, FCAW)
- 16 knowledge modules (81 credits)
- 11 practical skills modules (95 credits)
- Workplace exposure (185 credits)
- Trade test preparation
- Red Seal certification
Trade Test Preparation
Intensive preparation for the welder trade test. Includes ARPL assessments, gap closure, and complete skill refinement.
- Trade test simulation
- ARPL written assessments
- Practical assessment prep
- Knowledge gap closure
- Time management strategies
Trade Test Only
Official trade test evaluation for prepared candidates seeking Red Seal certification through NAMB assessors.
- Practical demonstrations
- Multi-position testing
- Theory examination
- Safety verification
ARPL Assessment
Recognition of Prior Learning for experienced welders seeking formal qualification without full training.
- Portfolio review
- Written assessment
- Practical demonstration
- Experience verification
Where Our Graduates Work
TFET-trained welders are employed across South Africa's leading industries and companies.
Mining & Heavy Industry
Anglo American, Glencore, Sasol, Eskom. Heavy equipment maintenance, structural repairs, pipeline work.
Construction & Engineering
Murray & Roberts, WBHO, Stefanutti Stocks. Structural steel, reinforcement, on-site fabrication.
Maintenance & Repair
Industrial maintenance teams, mobile welding services, plant shutdowns and turnarounds.
Self-Employment
Start your own welding business. Gate manufacturing, custom fabrication, mobile repair services.
🤝 Job Placement Support
We maintain relationships with over 150 companies actively seeking qualified welders. Our career services team provides CV preparation, interview coaching, and direct referrals to employers.
Who Can Register?
We offer pathways for everyone from complete beginners to experienced welders seeking certification.
Basic Courses (5-Day Programs)
- No prior experience required
- No formal education requirements
- Minimum age: 16 years
- Must be physically fit
- Good hand-eye coordination
- Willingness to learn safety protocols
NQF4 Artisan Programme
- NQF Level 1 (Grade 9 minimum)
- Mathematics & Science required
- Minimum age: 16 years
- Grade 12 preferred but not essential
- Medical fitness certificate
- Commitment to 24-month program
Trade Test & ARPL
- Completed apprenticeship OR
- Minimum 3 years work experience
- Portfolio of welding work
- Employer letter (if employed)
- Valid ID document
- Proof of prior learning
Corporate Training
- Groups of 5+ employees
- Customized training schedules
- On-site or facility-based
- SETA funding assistance
- Skills levy reclaim support
- Flexible payment terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about starting your welding career with TFET.
How long does it take to become a qualified welder in South Africa?
+What is the salary of a qualified welder in South Africa?
+Which welding course is best for job opportunities?
+Do I need matric to study welding?
+Is welding training funded by SETA or government?
+What safety equipment do I need for welding training?
+Can women become welders?
+What happens after I complete my training?
+How do I start my own welding business?
+What is the difference between basic training and Red Seal certification?
+Ready to Start Your Welding Career?
Join 2000+ successful graduates building high-paying careers in welding. Classes start monthly.