Course Summary
Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
This apprenticeship is ideal for those who are aged 16-21 who have just entered engineering with no prior knowledge and skills in the sector. This apprenticeship will provide you with the foundations skills in Health and Safety, using engineering tools and equipment safely, learning how to read engineering drawings and basic hand and machining techniques.
Entry Requirements
If you wish to progress to a Level 3 – GCSE 2/E or above/equivalent Maths and English
or L1 Functional Skill in Maths and English.
If you are not wishing to progress onto the L3 then would accept lower.
What will you learn?
Introduction to the World of Engineering and Manufacturing.
Health, Safety and Sustainability in Engineering and Manufacturing
Basic Drawing Skills and Work Area Preparation
Engineering and Manufacturing Tools and Equipment
Basic Hand and Machine Based Engineering and Manufacturing Techniques
How will you learn?
There will be a mix of classroom knowledge and practical skills in a workshop environment.
What will you need to bring with you?
Personal Protective Equipment – Safety boots, safety glasses and work overalls/safety work wear.
How will you be assessed?
You will be assessed through an knowledge exam and a practical observation,
Where next?
Level 3 Engineering Fitter Apprenticeship
Level 3 Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship
Level 3 Engineering Design Apprenticeship
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information contact Derby College on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Is there any financial support available?
N/A – this apprenticeship is fully funded for ages 16-21
Course Information for Employers
Apprenticeship summary
This apprenticeship is aimed at 16-21 year olds who require the foundational knowledge and practical skills to work within an engineering and manufacturing environment.
Are they any entry requirements for my apprentice?
If you wish them to progress to a Level 3 – GCSE 2/E or above/equivalent Maths and English
or L1 Functional Skill in Maths and English.
If you are not wishing them to progress onto the L3 then would accept lower.
What is required from the employer in the workplace?
You will be required to provide the apprentice with sufficient learning in the workplace to support them in embedding their knowledge and skills learnt at college. They will need to be given the time to attend college one day per week for 8 months.
Behaviours expected within the role
The apprentice will be required to work safely and effectively within a team, showing a willingness to learn and develop.
What qualification will my apprentice gain?
A Level 2 Foundation Apprenticeship.
What will the assessment look like?
The apprentice will be assessed through a knowledge exam and a practical observation, which will be completed in college.
Will my apprentice need to come into college?
One day per week during term time for 8 months.
Is there any specialist equipment required?
Standard PPE including safety boots, overalls and safety glasses.
What progression can my apprentice expect after completion of their apprenticeship?
The apprentice can progress onto a level 3 engineering apprenticeship providing their role is suitable.
What job roles will this apprenticeship be suitable for?
Machine Setter/Operative.
Processing and Finishing Operative.
Maintenance Operative.
Will the college help me find an apprentice?
You may already have someone in your organisation or someone has come to you direct asking for an apprenticeship, but if you don’t we have a free recruitment service to help you hire the best candidate for your organisation from our talent pool and external advertising through social media and the national apprenticeship services website
Contact us
If you are an employer and you would like to know more, please email businessenquiries@derby-college.ac.uk or call 01332 387421
Career Information
DCG Success Stories
Discover how our students have achieved success. Their hard work and dedication to learning has enabled them to succeed in rewarding careers or progress onto higher education.
We encourage progress and aspirational outcomes by guiding people onto learning pathways that lead to positive destinations. Our students have gone on to achieve great things since leaving the College. We would like to share some of their inspiring success stories with you.
Find out what funding could be available to you:
Thinking about returning to education or developing new skills? Use our funding calculator below to get an estimate of the financial support you may be eligible for based on where you live.
Whether you’re looking to retrain, progress in your career, or try something new, funding could make your next step more accessible than you think.
Simply enter your postcode into the calculator to see an estimate of the funding that may be available in your area. This is based on regional funding allocations and typical eligibility criteria for adult learners.
Important:
The results shown are a guide only and are not a guarantee of funding.
Funding availability can vary depending on:
- Your personal circumstances (such as age, employment status, and prior qualifications)
- The course you choose
- Government and local funding rules at the time of enrolment
If you’re considering adult learning, there’s never been a better time to explore your options.
Our courses are designed to fit around your life, with flexible study options and expert support every step of the way.
Find out more about the courses available. Adult Courses
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Course Information Last Updated On: February 5, 2026 3:50 pm
