Colliery Training College
Surface Excavations

National Certificate: Rock Breaking – Surface Excavations- Part Time/RPL

This nationally accredited qualification, aligned with the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA), prepares learners for competency in surface drilling and blasting operations within open cast mining environments. The programme develops core proficiencies in rock-breaking techniques, explosives handling, environmental impact management, and compliance with statutory and site-specific regulations. Successful learners are recognized as qualified surface blasters, authorized to execute controlled blasting activities under the Mine Health and Safety Act and associated licensing requirements.

Entry Requirements:

• 2 years’ experience in a supervisory position that exposed the applicant to blasting related activities
• Letter of service
• CV and qualifications
• Complete an assessment interview with CTC HOD

To qualify for enrolment, learners must meet the following criteria based on their registration pathway:

🔹 Route 1: Registration via Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA)

• Minimum academic qualification: Grade 11 with Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
• Certified copy of Identity Document (ID)
• Certified copy of highest school qualification
• Employment contract and Confirmation of employment: Issued by a MQA levy-paying employer (Not applicable for Private learners).

🔹 Route 2: Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) Pathway

• Minimum academic qualification:
  • N1 Certificate with six (6) subjects, or
  • ABET Level 3 (or recognised equivalent), or
  • Grade 10 school qualification
• Certified copy of Identity Document (ID)
• Certified copy of highest school qualification
• Employment contract and Confirmation of employment: Not applicable for private learners.

Training Approach and Duration:

The Surface Excavations Rock Breaking qualification is structured over a period of 7 weeks, combining core foundational learning with targeted operational modules. The programme begins with 2 weeks of fundamentals, covering essential literacy and numeracy skills to support technical understanding.

This is followed by monthly 1-week training phases that focus on key operational competencies. Each phase is designed to build progressive knowledge and practical readiness in the following areas:

• Health, Safety, and Environmental Awareness
• Drilling Operations and Explosives
• Blasting Practices and Procedures
• Mine Plan Interpretation and Transport Systems

After completion of the technical phases, learners undertake 1 week of board preparation, culminating in a final summative assessment. Successful candidates may then apply to the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) to be considered for the Opencast Blasting Board Examination, with exam dates scheduled and confirmed directly by the DMPR.

Learners will receive a class attendance schedule, indicating on which dates they are required to attend class at CTC = one week every month for a period of 6 months

After completion of the above application will be made to the DMR for acceptance to the DMR Opencast Blasting Board Exam.

Date for this examination will be supplied by the DMR.

To be accepted as a candidate for the On-site route, learners must have:

• Proof of at least 2 years supervisory experience (acting on and off will not be regarded)
• Diploma or degree in Mining or relevant field