Level 3 Engineering Course in Nottingham

CostCheck if you can do this free
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

Free if you're on certain benefits. Fees apply if you're not eligible. Contact Nottingham College for more info.

About this course

Level 3 Engineering Course in Nottingham. Classes run at Nottingham College Highfields Campus, full-time during the day. Students aged 16 to 18 years old do not pay tuition fees. If you are 19 or over, you may still be eligible for funding.

The course covers two specialist pathways: Mechanical Manufacturing and Welding. The Mechanical Manufacturing pathway includes precision machining, CNC operation, mechanical assembly, technical drawing, and quality control. The Welding pathway covers MIG, TIG, and MMA welding processes, plus fabrication techniques such as cutting, forming, and assembly. Both pathways combine classroom study with practical workshop sessions. You'll need at least five GCSEs, including grade 5 in Maths and grade 4 in English. The course takes one year full-time.

You'll finish with a City and Guilds Level 3 Technical Diploma in Engineering.

Who this course is for

This qualification is for you if you are looking to start in the broad, advanced manufacturing and engineering sector in more specialised roles.

Entry requirements

You will need a minimum of 5 GCSEs with a grade 5 in Maths and a grade 4 in English. GCSE in Science is preferable but not essential.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop skills in precision machining and CNC operation (Mechanical Manufacturing pathway).
  • You'll learn mechanical assembly and technical drawing interpretation.
  • You'll apply quality control and safe working practices in a manufacturing environment.
  • You'll gain competency in MIG, TIG, and MMA welding processes (Welding pathway).
  • You'll practise fabrication techniques including cutting, forming, and assembly.
  • You'll study engineering principles and materials science.
  • You'll work with computer-aided technologies used in modern engineering.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom-based theory, practical workshop sessions, and project work. Assessment includes practical tasks completed to industry standards, alongside written and project-based assessments. Both pathways place strong emphasis on hands-on skills development and applying knowledge in workshop environments.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Nottingham College Highfields Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Engineering technician, supports production and manufacturing processes in industry.
  • CNC machinist, operates computer-controlled machinery to produce precision parts.
  • Fabricator, cuts and assembles metal components in manufacturing or construction.
  • Welder, joins metal structures using MIG, TIG, or MMA techniques.
  • Mechanical assembly operative, builds and tests mechanical systems and components.
  • Quality control inspector, checks products meet engineering and safety standards.

What you could study next

  • Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Engineering, a Level 4 qualification for those wanting to move into technician or supervisory roles.
  • NVQ Level 3 in Engineering, a work-based route that builds on your practical skills and is recognised by employers across manufacturing and engineering.
  • Degree Apprenticeship in Engineering, combining university study with paid employment for those aiming toward professional engineer status.

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