Are you interested in a career in the skilled trades, specifically in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry? The Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Academy (ACRA) is now accepting applications for its apprenticeship program, funded by the HWSETA, starting in 2025. HWSETA-funded Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Apprenticeship 2025
This program offers a fantastic opportunity for young South Africans to gain valuable technical skills, practical experience, and a recognized trade qualification.
What is the HWSETA-Funded Apprenticeship?
The HWSETA (Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority) is a government-funded body responsible for providing quality skills development and training in various sectors across South Africa. Its mission is to promote artisan development and to ensure the availability of skilled workers in key industries. The apprenticeship offered by ACRA is funded by HWSETA, making it affordable and accessible to eligible learners.
An apprenticeship is a formal learning pathway that combines theoretical knowledge with practical work experience. In this case, the program focuses on Air Conditioning and Refrigeration—a highly specialized and technical trade that is in demand across South Africa and beyond.
Why Choose a Career in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration?
The HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) sector is growing rapidly due to increased demand in both residential and commercial spaces. Refrigeration and air conditioning technicians play a vital role in installing, maintaining, and repairing cooling systems that are essential for comfort, food preservation, and industrial processes.
Completing an apprenticeship in this trade offers numerous benefits, including:
- Job Security: Skilled technicians are always in demand.
- Good Earning Potential: Qualified artisans can earn competitive salaries.
- Career Growth: Opportunities to advance in technical and managerial roles.
- Entrepreneurship: Many technicians start their own businesses.
Key Information About the Apprenticeship
- Program: HWSETA-Funded Apprenticeship: Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
- Training Provider: Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Academy (ACRA)
- Locations: Kempton Park (Gauteng), Pinetown (KwaZulu-Natal), Kimberley (Northern Cape)
- Eligibility: Open to male and female candidates aged 18–35
- Application Deadline: November 20, 2025
- Application Email: projects@acra.co.za
- Required Education: High school diploma (Grade 12) with Math and Science preferred
- Citizenship: South African citizens only
About the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Academy (ACRA)
The Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Academy (ACRA) is a fully accredited training and trade test center, recognized by various industry bodies. ACRA operates campuses in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Northern Cape, offering industry-approved training in refrigeration, air conditioning, and related engineering fields.
The academy’s approach balances classroom-based theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical experience. This dual approach ensures learners not only understand the technical concepts but can also apply them effectively in real-world scenarios.
ACRA is renowned for producing highly skilled tradespeople who meet the standards required by employers and the industry. Graduates from ACRA often find rewarding careers in HVAC companies, manufacturing plants, and service providers.
Program Details and Structure
ACRA is in the process of creating a database of eligible candidates for potential enrollment in upcoming intakes of the HWSETA-funded Apprenticeship in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration.
Upon acceptance, successful applicants will be assigned to the ACRA branch closest to them, where they will engage in:
- Classroom-based instruction to learn foundational and advanced principles of refrigeration and air conditioning.
- Hands-on workshop training to develop practical skills in system installation, repair, maintenance, and safety.
- Real-world, on-the-job learning, where apprentices gain invaluable workplace experience under the supervision of experienced technicians.
The program is a complete apprenticeship designed to produce fully qualified refrigeration and air conditioning technicians ready for the industry.
Available Branches
- Kempton Park, Gauteng
- Pinetown, KwaZulu-Natal
- Kimberley, Northern Cape
Application Requirements and Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the ACRA HWSETA Apprenticeship Program, applicants must fulfill the following essential criteria:
- South African Citizen: You must be a South African citizen aged between 18 and 35 years old.
- Education: Completion of high school (Grade 12) is required, with preference given to applicants who have taken Mathematics and Science subjects.
- Location: Applicants must reside near one of the ACRA campuses: Kempton Park, Pinetown, or Kimberley.
- Physical Fitness: You must be physically fit and healthy enough to perform the tasks required in this trade, which can be physically demanding.
- Entry Criteria: You must meet specific entry requirements set for artisan training.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documentation for submission:
- Certified copy of your South African ID document.
- Certified copy of your Grade 12 certificate.
- An up-to-date resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing your educational background and any relevant experience.
- Proof of your current residential address.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their resumes/CVs along with all supporting documents by email to:
projects@acra.co.za
Ensure your application is complete and sent before the deadline to be considered for enrollment.
Benefits of the HWSETA-Funded Apprenticeship Program
- Funded Training: Because the program is HWSETA-funded, eligible learners can access training at a reduced cost or even for free.
- Industry-Recognized Qualification: Completing the apprenticeship results in a formal qualification, making you a recognized tradesperson in refrigeration and air conditioning.
- Practical Skills: The program emphasizes hands-on learning, which is crucial for mastering the trade.
- Job-Ready: Apprentices gain exposure to workplace environments, improving employability upon graduation.
- Supportive Learning Environment: Experienced instructors and mentors guide learners throughout the program.
Career Opportunities After Completion
Graduates of the ACRA apprenticeship program can pursue various career paths such as:
- Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician
- HVAC Service and Maintenance Technician
- Installation Specialist
- Sales and Technical Support in HVAC companies
- Self-Employed Artisan or Business Owner in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is this apprenticeship funded?
A: Yes, HWSETA provides funding for this apprenticeship program, meaning eligible learners receive training at a reduced cost or sometimes for free.
Q2: Do I need previous technical experience?
A: No. This apprenticeship welcomes entry-level candidates who have completed Grade 12, even without prior technical experience.
Q3: Is accommodation provided?
A: No, accommodation is not provided. Applicants must live near one of the ACRA campuses to attend the program.
Q4: Can females apply?
A: Yes, both male and female candidates are encouraged and welcome to apply.
Q5: What qualification will I receive?
A: Upon successful completion, you will be qualified as a Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician.
Q6: How long is the apprenticeship?
A: While the exact duration is not specified in the announcement, typical artisan apprenticeships last approximately 3 years.
Q7: Will I be paid during training?
A: The program’s funding allocation may or may not include stipends. This detail depends on HWSETA policies and is not explicitly mentioned.
Q8: What if I do not live near any of the campuses?
A: Unfortunately, applicants must reside near an ACRA campus since accommodation is not provided and attendance in person is required.
Q9: How often do the intakes happen?
A: Intakes vary, but ACRA frequently organizes new cohorts to meet industry demand. Candidates are encouraged to apply early and be registered in the database for upcoming intakes.
Q10: What kind of work will I be trained to do?
A: Training covers installation, maintenance, and repair of refrigeration and air conditioning systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
Final Notes and Reminder
If you are passionate about building a technical career in air conditioning and refrigeration and meet the eligibility criteria, this is a golden opportunity to take a significant step forward. The combination of funded training, hands-on learning, and a respected qualification can open doors to a stable and rewarding profession.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: NOVEMBER 20, 2025
Make sure you prepare all required documents and submit your application to projects@acra.co.za on time.
