A good general education level equivalent to 4-GCSE’s grade-4 or equivalent in English and mathematics would be a good starting point.
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate provides a broad basis of study for the engineering sector. It has been designed to support progression to higher education when taken as part of a programme of study that includes other appropriate BTEC nationals or A-levels.
This is a 360 guided learning hours course equivalent in size to one A-level.
Engineering covers a broad variety of roles and it involves the application of scientific principles and practical knowledge to transform ideas and materials into products and systems safely and support them during their lifetime. This qualification has a focus on a broad range of engineering specialist areas including electrical and electronic, mechanical, and others for example manufacturing. Learners will study 3-mandatory units and 1- optional units including the following topics: engineering principles, health and safety, engineering product design.
The optional unit selection will reflect the local and industrial needs. The content of this qualification has been developed in consultation with employers and professional bodies to ensure relevance to current industry practice in engineering occupational disciplines. In addition, academics have been consulted on the content development to ensure the qualification supports progression to higher education.
There are 3-mandatory units; two of which are externally assessed examinations and the remaining 1-unit selected from a banks of units that are internally assessed. Learners must complete and achieve at Pass grade or above in all mandatory external units and achieve a Pass or above in all mandatory internal and optional units.
This qualification supports progression to job opportunities in the engineering sector at a variety of levels as well as being a pre-requisite to progress to higher levels of study. Jobs that are available in these areas include:
