Course Summary

Delivered in Years 10 and 11, this qualification has been developed by BTEC (the awarding body) for candidates wishing to gain some understanding and practical experience of the variety of engineering disciplines.

The qualification has three units covering different types of projects.

Entry requirements

You should have an interest in engineering and you will need to undertake an interview and aptitude test.

Course Content

The course gives learners the opportunity to achieve a nationally recognised Level 1 or Level 2 Engineering qualification. It covers:

• Basic core engineering skills
• Planning practical tasks – using industry standard equipment and a range of different materials
• Key methods of production and manufacturing
• Competitions and challenges based around engineering disciplines such as electrical, mechanical and fabrication
• Tasks and challenges that encompass many aspects of the engineering world.

How will I be assessed?

To gain this qualification, learners must successfully complete the following unit assessments:

• Unit 1 – The Engineered World
• Unit 2 – Investigating an Engineering Product
• Additional optional units

Are there any additional costs or specialist equipment required?

You will need safety overalls and steel toe-capped boots. (NB: overalls must be purchased through Derby College).

What can I do after this course?

Upon completion of the qualification and depending on the grades achieved, learners may wish to progress to the:

• Level 2 Performing Engineering Operations
• Level 3 Diploma in Engineering
• An apprenticeship programme at Level 2 or 3

Further study can lead to a variety of careers within the engineering industry, including junior CAD technician, trainee manufacturing systems engineer, engineering maintenance technician and director of manufacturing. 

(This qualification is on the Department of Education headline performance measures in the technical award category).