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Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering technicians, also known as mechanical fitters or installers, design, build, operate and service plant machinery and parts. They use a number of different skills in their work, depending on the job, for instance welding or CNC machining. An apprenticeship is an ideal foundation to develop your skills in this field.
What does the course involve?
The course involves working from engineering drawings using hand skills to:
• Install couplings and shafts
• Fit keys
• Alignment of shafts
• Repair and maintain detailed mechanical systems
• Selecting and using hand tools to produce a range of components
• Working from pneumatic/hydraulic circuit drawings
• Designing and building pneumatic/hydraulic circuits
Interested candidates should have the following skills & interests....
• Practical hand skills for handling tools, instruments and components
• Mathematical ability for engineering calculations
• Spoken and written communication skills
• Computer literacy
• Ability to understand engineering drawings
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Safety awareness is essential
The programme consists of the following five areas:
1. Initial Engineering Training
Initial Stage Training is intended to equip apprentices with a broadbase of basic engineering skills, knowledge and understanding. It is intended as a firm basis on which further work based skills can be developed. Apprentices entering the industry straight from school or college may require a substantial period of structured off-the-job training, under close supervision, before any on-the-job training can be undertaken. Learners will complete a number of units (depending on the Apprenticeship level) to satisfy this element.
2. NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Mechanical Engineering
The NVQ consists of a number of units (dependent on the Apprenticeship level) and is assessed in the learner’s workplace. The learner produces a portfolio of evidence that is used to prove competence on a variety of engineering disciplines.
3. Technical Certificate
This covers knowledge and understanding of engineering disciplines.
4. Key Skills
There are five key skills that will need to be completed: Communication, application of Number, IT, Improving Own Learning and Performance, Working With Others. These will be met through off-the-job training and the NVQ. Depending on the GCSE grades, relaxations or proxies may be claimed (your Learning and Development Officer will discuss this with you).
5. Employment Responsibilities and Rights
The Government has decided that everyone on an Apprenticeship programme must understand their responsibilities and rights within the working environment. Your Learning and Development Officer will supply you with the workbook which must be completed within 6 months of the start date of your training. You will also need the support of your employer in completing some of the tasks.
