Level 2 Fabrication & Welding Apprenticeships

What does a Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprentice?

Engineering Operatives are predominantly involved in engineering operations which are key to the success of the Manufacturing and Engineering sector allowing employers to grow their business while developing a work force with the relevant skills and knowledge to enhance the sustain the sector.

The role covers a wide range of common and job specific skills sets that can be transferred across the manufacturing engineering industry sectors during their careers. Dependent on the sector that they are employed in there may be subtle differences in terms of composition and application of the job role specific skills and knowledge they will require, however the core skills and knowledge will be the same regardless of the sector/area they work in.

Examples of the occupational roles from across the engineering and manufacturing sector that would align with the Fabrication and Welding pathway would be operatives working in an environment where they are heavily involved in manufacturing, fabricating, and welding products. Examples of this could be gates, railings, barriers, or bespoke fabrications for customers.

What are the entry requirements?

Candidates must be aged 16 or over and should have:
- Practical abilities and the desire to work with your hands
- High motivation and are keen to work in the engineering environment
- The ability to follow instructions and diagrams
- The ability to work accurately and a good eye for detail
- Good communication and problem solving abilities
- Good numeracy and literacy abilities to work with data
- The ability to work on your own initiative, but also be a good team worker

What is the duration of the course?

The Level 2 Engineering Operative Apprenticeship takes approximately 22 months to complete. This will be delivered on day release for approximately 20 months practical training, taking you to the gateway and a further 2 months preparation for End Point Assessment.

How can I progress in Metal Fabricator Engineering?

After completing the Level 2 Apprenticeship, you could progress onto Higher Apprenticeship at Level 3 in Engineering, appropriate to the apprentices job role.

What Qualifications will I gain?

This qualification provides a foundation in engineering operations and techniques, as well as theoretical and practical experience in this occupational area.

1. Diploma in engineering operations (skills):

An example of units that can be studied within this pathway are provided below:
• Complying with Statutory Regulations and Organisational Safety Requirements
• Working Efficiently and Effectively in Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering
• Using and communicating Technical Information
• Preparing and using semi-automatic MIG, MAG and flux cored arc welding equipment
• Producing Sheet Metal Components and Assemblies
• Preparing and Using Manual TIG or Plasma-arc Welding Equipment
• Producing Platework Components and Assemblies

2. Diploma in engineering operations (knowledge):
This is the technical knowledge that you will be required to study towards and achieve. This is mainly delivered in a classroom to ensure a high level of technical ability and understanding and will be assessed through a mixture of practical assessments or exams.

3. End Point Assessment:
An external assessor will be arranged by your employer to review all evidence, conduct a full observation and hold an interview with you to determine your ability in the role and ensure that the 20 months training has developed your competence and confidence as an engineer. The final grading based on all assessments and evidence provided will be scored on a Fail, Pass, or Distinction basis.

4. Functional Skills in English and Maths Level 1:
Functional Skills are qualifications in Maths and English that equip learners with the practical skills needed to learn, live and work successfully. This will only be required if you haven’t already attained this level through GCSE.

How do I apply?