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Engineering Courses for School Leavers

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Engineering at West Suffolk College provides a practical and theoretical introduction to mechanical and electronic engineering, computer aided drawing and microprocessing. You’ll get the skills to help solve the problems of tomorrow – from how aircraft work to the electronics in your mobile phone.

The Level 3 course could earn you enough UCAS points to study engineering at any UK university or take an advanced apprenticeship, working with an engineering firm and career off to an early start.

Engineering Apprenticeships

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The UK is once again one of the global leads for Engineering and Manufacture. Our innovation and high quality, together with efficient timescales of delivery make us stand out. The East of England is a powerhouse for the UK economy much of which comes from the outstanding engineering companies in the region.

At West Suffolk College we offer organisations and learners the chance to learn and develop the skills required to ensure engineering remains prominent in the local area. We offer Level 2 to Level 6 and work with employers across many different pathways such as Mechanical, Electrical, Electronic, Maintenance, Welding, Tool Making, Design, Installation etc. Our excellent facilities allow for learning to be conducted in a very supportive environment and our work based team helps to embed that classroom knowledge fully in the workplace.

Engineering Degrees, HNCs & HNDs

Overview of apprenticeship

Manufacturing Engineers primarily support the activities involved in bringing design programmes into manufacture. This role is pivotal to the launch planning and smooth delivery of exciting new products or product refresh programmes. The focus is on the advanced manufacturing techniques and project management skills required to launch products on time, on cost and to the right quality. Typically Manufacturing Engineers work closely with a range of other engineers, functions, and managers both within their own company and supplier base.

Delivery Plan and Assessment

The Apprentice will study over 4 years part time (APL as listed in the entry criteria section above will possibly decrease this duration) to achieve the Foundation Stage of the knowledge elements in the competence qualification. It will support the fundamental scientific and mathematical principles that equip Apprentices with the understanding required to operate effectively and efficiently at high level within this sector. For the Development Phase the Apprentice will build on their foundation knowledge by completing a further 2 years part time study. Here they will expand their understanding to a higher level and commence on specialised modules during the latter part of this qualification.

Where will this course take me?

This standard has been designed to meet the professional standards of the Engineering Council for initial registration as an Engineering Technician (Eng Tech) in partnership with the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). Further professional development and registration is subject to candidates successfully completing the appropriate learning, developing the appropriate competence, and undergoing professional review.

Entry requirements

Candidates entering will be required to have a minimum of GCSEs at Grade C (5) or above in Mathematics, English and Science or Technology, as well as either A-Levels at grade C or above in both a Mathematical based subject and a Science, Technology, Engineering or additional Mathematics related subject, or 90+ credits in an Engineering BTEC at Level 3 with Merit or Distinction grade. Learners with additional prior learning (APL) such as a HNC or D in Engineering will be individually assessed and mapped in the programme accordingly from their previous completed studies. All learners will be required to complete an interview with West Suffolk College – University Studies, prior to acceptance on the programme.

Qualifications

Learners will attend a weekly taught session at the University and Professional Development Campus – WSC Bury St Edmunds. You will be supported on your academic programme by Personal Academic Tutor and have access to lectures, workshops, seminars, and assessment sessions. Topics include: - Engineering science and materials - Engineering mathematics - Computer aided design - Workshop principles and practices - Engineering design - Lean management - Industrial automation Apprentices will also receive 1:1 support in the workplace from their allocated Programme Tutor and have access to resources via an e-portfolio system. 

How is this funded?

If you are a Levy paying employer, you will be required to pay for the Apprenticeship training from your Digital Apprenticeship Account. If you do not pay the Levy or have insufficient funds within your Levy account, you will be able to access Government funding also via the Digital Apprenticeship Account. As an employer you will be required to contribute 5% of the training fee with the Government adding the further 95%. All fees will be negotiated before the commencement of an Apprenticeship.

Try out our apprenticeship levy calculator here

I'm interested. What should I do now?

Please contact our Apprenticeship team who will be more than happy to support your recruitment needs and build a plan of training specifically for you and your staff. 01284 716235 / This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Days & times

Please contact us for dates and further information


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