Free Level 3 Manufacturing Engineering Course in Chelmsford

CostFREE
Duration42 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryWork based
StartFlexible
Awarding bodyEAL awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Course. Work-based training at your workplace, supported by Chelmsford College. You learn while you earn, working toward a skilled role in advanced manufacturing.

The course covers materials, design principles, and manufacturing processes. You'll study assembly techniques, quality standards, and how to interpret engineering drawings. Units also include health and safety, measurement, and the mathematical principles used in engineering roles. The course typically takes 42 months to complete.

You'll need GCSEs in English and Maths at grades 4 to 9, or Level 2 Functional Skills in English and Maths. You'll finish with a Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Knowledge).

Who this course is for

The broad purpose of the occupation is to produce complex high value, low volume components or assemblies in full or part, using machines, equipment or systems, to the required specification; for example, turbines, cranes, gearboxes, production lines, rigs and platforms. Fitters may typically have a mechanical, electrical, electronic, control systems, pipe fitting or instrumentation bias or operate across multiple disciplines depending on the type of assembly. To produce or re-furbish the components, fitters will interpret drawings/specifications and plan their work. For example, ensuring they have the right tools, equipment and resources to complete the task to the required specification. Fitters are required to check their work against quality standards and make adjustments as required based on their knowledge. On completion of the task a fitter will hand over the product and prepare the work area for the next task by checking equipment meets the standards required to operate.

Entry requirements

Typically GCSEs in English and Maths at grades 9-4 OR Level 2 Functional Skills in English and Maths.

For further entry requirement information, please email [email protected] as these can vary by individual.

What you will learn

  • You'll interpret engineering drawings and plan your work to meet specifications.
  • You'll identify and select materials used in components and assemblies.
  • You'll apply manufacturing and assembly processes for complex, high-value components.
  • You'll use tools and equipment safely and correctly.
  • You'll apply measurement, marking, cutting, and drilling techniques.
  • You'll check work against quality standards and make adjustments as needed.
  • You'll apply engineering maths and scientific principles in your role.
  • You'll follow health, safety, and environmental regulations with minimal supervision.

How you will learn

This is a work-based qualification. You learn on the job, applying skills directly in your workplace. Training is employer-supported throughout. Assessment covers both knowledge and practical skills, including work-based observations and written assessments. Contact Chelmsford College at [email protected] for details on how assessment is structured for your role.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Chelmsford College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Engineering Technician, works on complex mechanical or electrical assemblies.
  • Manufacturing Technician, supports production of high-value components.
  • Engineering Fitter, assembles and maintains turbines, gearboxes, and similar equipment.
  • Control Systems Technician, works on automated manufacturing systems.
  • Instrumentation Technician, installs and maintains measurement and control equipment.
  • Pipe Fitter, fits and maintains pipework in industrial settings.

What you could study next

  • Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Engineering, a natural next step for technicians moving into higher technical roles.
  • Level 4 Engineering Degree Apprenticeship, combines further study with continued workplace learning.
  • Incorporated Engineer (IEng) registration, a professional recognition route for experienced engineering technicians.

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