Free Level 3 Fabrication and Welding Course in South Shields. Classes run at South Tyneside College, full-time during the day. This fabrication and welding qualification covers the engineering skills you need to work in metal fabrication and welding roles. The course takes one year to complete. There are no specific entry requirements, and the college will talk you through what to expect before you start.
Who this course is for
Programme Title = SFABWELD | Course Title = Fabrication & Welding Courses (STC) | Qualification Aim Reference = 60008829 | Qualification Aim Title = Diploma in Engineering | College Delivery Area = STEM Motor Vehicle and Green Initiatives (Note: 1 other start date(s) for this course exist. Please contact the college for further information.)
Entry requirements
No specific entry requirements - contact the College for further details.
What you will learn
You'll develop core welding techniques including MIG, TIG, and manual metal arc welding.
You'll learn to read and interpret engineering drawings and fabrication plans.
You'll practise cutting, shaping, and joining metal components to specification.
You'll apply health and safety practices relevant to fabrication and welding environments.
You'll understand the properties of metals and how they affect fabrication processes.
You'll use hand tools and power tools safely and accurately.
You'll inspect and test completed welds and fabricated structures for quality.
How you will learn
You'll learn through practical workshop sessions and classroom-based study at South Tyneside College. Assessment includes practical tasks where you demonstrate welding and fabrication skills, alongside written assignments and knowledge tests. Your progress is assessed throughout the course rather than in a single end exam.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. South Tyneside College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Welder. How to become a welder in manufacturing or construction.
Fabricator. Cutting and assembling metal structures to engineering specs.
Welding fabricator. Combining both disciplines on industrial projects.
Structural steelworker. Working on steel frames for buildings and infrastructure.
Pipe welder. Specialist welding for pipework in energy and utilities sectors.
Sheet metal worker. Forming and joining sheet metal components.
Engineering technician. Supporting engineers in fabrication and production settings.
What you could study next
Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Fabrication and Welding Engineering. An NVQ gained in the workplace that strengthens your CV for skilled welding roles and supports applications for a CSCS-equivalent card in engineering.
Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Engineering. A step into higher-level engineering study, useful if you want to move into supervisory or technical roles.
Coded welder qualifications (BS EN ISO 9606). Industry-standard weld tests that many employers require for specialist or high-integrity welding work.
