What is the purpose of this qualification?
This qualification is suitable if the learners need an extended introductory level 1 course in engineering. It is particularly appropriate for:
• Young people interested in a career in engineering who intend, but are not yet ready, to access level 2 qualifications or a level 2 apprenticeship
• Young people and adults, including those who have had a significant break from or disjointed experience of education, who wish to work in engineering but need an extended grounding in the subject and an opportunity to develop more general workplace skills, before applying for work.
What skills, knowledge, or understanding does this qualification develop?
This qualification provides you with a broad range of introductory engineering skills and relevant knowledge, alongside generic employability skills which are needed both in engineering and across other sectors. The learner must take the following mandatory units:
• Working Safely in Engineering
• Using Mathematics and Science in Engineering
Optional units include knowledge and skills relevant to different job roles in the sector (such as electronic assembly, welding, CAD) alongside generic employability skills (such as time-management and effective communication in the workplace).
How is this qualification different from other, similar qualifications?
This qualification is part of a suite which includes an Award, Certificate, Extended Certificate and Diploma. Learners should take the Extended Certificate if they need an extended introduction to the sector, as well as more generic workplace skills, before progressing to a level 2 Apprenticeship, a Level 2 qualification, or to employment (with further training where possible) as illustrated in the target learner profiles provided above.
Which sector does this qualification support?
The main purpose of the qualification is to support your progression to a level 2 qualification. However, the learner could progress to an entry-level or trainee job role such as machine operator, manufacturing or production operative or workshop assistant.
What are the progression options?
The learner can progress to a level 2 certificate or diploma in engineering, including Gateway Qualifications’ Level 2 Certificate and Diploma in Skills for Engineering and other level 2 qualifications such as Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Welding and Fabrication, Performing Engineering Operations, and Technical Certificates in Engineering.
Progression & entry requirements
The learners do not need any prior qualifications or a specific level of attainment to take this qualification. It is available to learners of any age.
