Free Level 4 HNC in Engineering in Swadlincote. Classes run at Stephen Burke Academy on Tuesday daytimes, part-time over two years. This Pearson Edexcel BTEC Higher National Certificate in Engineering gives you a thorough grounding in engineering concepts and practical skills. It is designed for those aiming for higher technician status in the engineering sector. The manageable part-time pace means you can study alongside work or other commitments.
Who this course is for
Recognised by employers and professional bodies, this course provides a thorough grounding in the key concepts and practical skills required to pursue a wide variety of roles within the engineering sector and the qualification itself is intended for those who wish to obtain a higher technician status within the industry, while also opening up further opportunities to progress within the engineering sector.
Please note: Specified course fee is per year.
Entry requirements
Applicants will be expected to have achieved at least one of the following:
64 UCAS points from relevant A Level/s
An Extended Diploma Level 3 or BTEC National Qualifications
An NVQ/VRQ at level 3 in a relevant discipline
Successful completion of a relevant T-Level Programme
(or) If you already have relevant industry experience but no formal qualifications, your application will be welcome and considered based on your experience.
What you will learn
You'll develop core engineering principles including mathematics, science, and design fundamentals.
You'll apply practical skills relevant to engineering technician roles in industry.
You'll study engineering systems, materials, and manufacturing processes.
You'll analyse and solve engineering problems using industry-standard methods.
You'll develop project management and professional practice skills used in engineering workplaces.
You'll build knowledge of health, safety, and quality standards in engineering environments.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom based, with Tuesday daytime sessions at the centre. The BTEC Higher National Certificate uses a combination of assignments, projects, and practical assessments. Much of your work is coursework based, so you build evidence of your skills throughout the course rather than sitting a single final exam. Some units may include written tasks or presentations alongside practical work.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Stephen Burke Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Engineering technician: support design, testing, and maintenance in engineering teams.
Manufacturing technician: oversee production processes in factories and plants.
Mechanical engineering technician: work on mechanical systems and equipment.
Electrical engineering technician: install, test, and maintain electrical systems.
Quality control technician: inspect products and processes to meet industry standards.
Maintenance engineer: keep plant and machinery running safely and efficiently.
Technical sales engineer: advise customers on engineering products and solutions.
What you could study next
Level 5 HND in Engineering (Pearson Edexcel): the natural next step, deepening your technical knowledge and moving you closer to graduate-level engineering roles.
BEng (Hons) Engineering degree: many universities accept an HNC for entry into the second or third year of an engineering degree, shortening the time to a full honours degree.
Engineering chartership routes: bodies such as the IMechE or IET recognise HNC study as part of the journey toward Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status.
