Terms & Conditions

Based on the South African Consumer Protection Act (CPA) of 2008, your Payment Terms & Conditions to ensure compliance and clarity. Key additions to protect both GCAT and the apprentices, especially around cancellation, refunds, and fair dealing. 

PAYMENT TERMS & CONDITIONS 

German Craft Academy of Technology (GCAT) 
Cape Town, South Africa 
Effective: August 2025 

1. Introduction 

GCAT Education: Empowering Africa’s Plumbing Artisans for a Green Future 
GCAT delivers holistic vocational education and hands-on skills training inspired by the German dual system. Our programs combine online learning with practical workshops, preparing ethical, globally competitive artisans for sustainable employment and entrepreneurship. 

2. Definitions 

  • Apprentice: An individual registered with GCAT for vocational training. 

  • Education: A 10-month plumbing/HVAC learnership including online theory and seven one-week practical courses. 

  • Artisan: A individual with a grade 11 diploma  

3. Tuition Fees 

Total tuition for the Plumbing/HVAC Apprenticeship: R85,699 incl. VAT 

Breakdown: 

Theory 

  • Level 1 – Fundamentals of Plumbing Technology: R1,999

  • Level 2 – Water Systems & Pipework Installation: R3,900 

  • Level 3 – Sanitary & Drainage Systems: R6,900 

  • Level 4 – Heating & Renewable Energy Systems: R8,900 

Practice

Package Contents Number of courses Price Comment

Phase A

Fundamentals

Modul Technical training: Pipe & metalworking Plant mechanics

Module Manifold installation & pipe systems – practical module

 2 R16 000 Entry Requirement

Phase B

Structure

Module Wastewater & Sanitary Technology Compact

Module Storage tank and heat generator connections

 2 R19 000 Builds on A

Phase C

Specialization

Module Heating technology & cabins/room installation

Module Pre-wall and cabin installation

 2 R26 000 Final Exam Preparation
Final Examination Practice and theory R3000 Paid Separately

Total R 64000        

  • All materials, tools, and equipment are included in the course fees and supplied by the academy.
  • In order to complete the practical course and to receive your qualification certificate you need to complete Phase 1 – 3

3.1 Theory Completion Requirement Prior to Practical Training 

Before an apprentice may begin any practical training modules at GCAT, the following theoretical components must be successfully completed: 

• The Basic Theory Course 

• The first three parts of the Advanced 1 Theory Course 

This prerequisite ensures that apprentices have the foundational knowledge necessary to safely and effectively engage in hands-on workshop instruction. GCAT reserves the right to postpone or deny access to practical courses if these theory modules are incomplete. 

3.2 Practical Course Group Size Policy 

To ensure the highest quality of instruction and hands-on learning, GCAT enforces the following group size requirements for all practical training modules: 

• Each practical course must have a minimum of 6 registered participants to proceed. 

• Each course is capped at a maximum of 14 participants to maintain personalized instruction and workshop safety. 

GCAT reserves the right to reschedule or consolidate practical courses that do not meet the minimum enrollment threshold. Apprentices will be notified in advance and offered alternative dates or arrangements where possible. 

4. Payment Deadlines 

  • Theory fees: Full payment due 7 days before course start 

  • Practical fees: Full payment due 14 days before course start 

5. Payment Options 

Option A: Monthly Installments

  • Payment in installments

  • 3 x R 20000

  • Examination at the end after full payment

Option B: Full Payment with Early Discount 

  • 5% discount for full payment

6. Method of Payment 

  • EFT only ?

  • Use student number as reference ?

  • Send proof of payment to: finance@blulever.com 

Banking Details 

  • Bank: ABSA 

  • Account No: 4066642109 

  • Account Holder: GHT 

  • Branch Code: 632005 

  • Reference: Student Number 

7. Payment Compliance 

Failure to comply may result in: 

  1. Withheld grade reports 

  1. Ineligibility for placement opportunities 

  1. Restricted re-registration 

  1. No graduation clearance 

Interest: Prime +1% monthly on overdue balances from 1 January 2026 

8. What Tuition Covers 

  • Instruction and facilitation 

  • Online learning  

  • Access to workshops, tools, and machinery 

  • Soft skills and technical theory 

  • First trade test attempt 

  • Use of toolbox (must be returned) 

  • Training materials 

9. What Tuition Excludes 

  • Accommodation 

  • Meals 

  • Transport 

  • PPE 

  • Additional trade test attempts 

10. Cancellation & Refund Policy 

In line with the Consumer Protection Act (CPA): 

  • Cancellation must be submitted in writing to admin@gcat.de.com 

  • If cancelled more than 20 business days before course start, a full refund minus a reasonable admin fee will apply 

  • If cancelled within 20 business days, GCAT may retain a reasonable portion of the fee to cover costs 

  • No refund for non-attendance without written cancellation 

  • Refunds will be processed within 15 business days of cancellation confirmation 

11. Right to Review & Amend 

GCAT reserves the right to amend these Terms & Conditions in line with changes to legislation or operational needs. Apprentices will be notified in writing of any updates. 

Absolutely, Jurgen. Here's the updated section fully integrated into the existing Terms & Conditions, placed under a new heading to ensure clarity and compliance with South African consumer law: 

12. Certification and Employment Disclaimer 

  • Certificate Release Conditions 
    Under no circumstances will a student be granted access to their certificate(s) until all outstanding tuition fees and any other amounts due under this agreement are paid in full, and all required assessments have been successfully completed. 
    Certificates will only be issued to the registered student and are not transferable. 

  • Employment Disclaimer 
    GCAT and its affiliated companies do not guarantee employment upon completion of any program. 
    However, GCAT will actively leverage its local and international network to support graduates in applying to partner companies and industry organizations. While placement is not assured, GCAT remains committed to expanding access to career opportunities through its strategic alliances. 

 

This addition reinforces GCAT’s credibility while protecting the academy from unrealistic expectations. If you'd like, I can also help you draft a short version of this clause for use in marketing materials or enrollment forms—something that’s legally sound but apprentice-friendly.