This apprenticeship will provide you with the skills and knowledge required for a wide variety of engineering activities in the mechanical or manufacturing engineering sector. It will combine the practical hands-on experience of the workplace with the knowledge and understanding gained through a college course, giving you the chance to gain technical knowledge and real practical experience, along with the essential functional and personal skills required for both your current job role and your future career. You and your employer will decide which pathway will be most suited to your job role and which units you will study within that pathway.
Entry requirements
Grade requirements: You will need a minimum of four GCSEs at grades A*-C or 9-4 including English, maths and science , or equivalent, or a technical subject such as engineering or product design. Alternatively you can progress from a relevant Level 2 Intermediate apprenticeship programme.
Course content
During this apprenticeship you will study a range of topics, including:
- Engineering and Environmental Health and Safety
- Engineering Organisational Efficiency and Improvement
- Electrical and Electronic Principles
- Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding
- Metal Inert Gas (MIG) welding
- Advanced Milling
- Advanced Turning
You will also study specialist units depending on the pathway you choose.
Assessment methods
You will be assessed for the NVQ (work-based learning) in the workplace in a practical environment. Assessment of the knowledge requirements within the Technical Certificates (classroom-based learning) will consist of a range of methods, including examinations, written tasks and presentations, or through portfolio development.
Qualifications
The qualifications you will study to achieve will depend on your chosen pathway, and include:
NVQs (work-based learning)
- Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering NVQ Level 3 Extended Diploma
- Engineering Maintenance NVQ Level 3 Extended Diploma
- Fabrication and Welding Engineering NVQ Level 3 Extended Diploma
- Engineering Technical Support NVQ Level 3 Extended Diploma.
Technical Certificates (classroom-based learning)
- Fabrication and Welding Engineering Technology Level 3 Diploma
- EAL Engineering Technology Level 3 Diploma.
You will also have the opportunity to achieve the following additional qualifications:
- English, maths and ICT Functional Skills
- Employee Rights and Responsibilities
- Personal Learning and Thinking Skills.
Further study and career options
Further study: You can continue your studies by undertaking an Engineering HNC/D. Although not part of the apprenticeship many employers will sponsor their apprentices to complete a Higher National Certificate (HNC – equivalent to the first year at university) and / or a Higher National Diploma (HND – equivalent to the first two years at university) both offered at Bedford College. You may also look to join a professional organisation, such as the Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) or the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
Future careers: On successful completion of this apprenticeship you will be able to undertake a full range of duties related to your job role confidently and competently to the standard set by the industry, so you will be well-prepared to seek further employment.