T Level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing

This course is designed for students who are interested in engineering and want to develop the technical, practical and problem-solving skills needed for careers in engineering design and development. Throughout the course, students explore the complete design process used by design engineers: working with customers to understand their needs, researching possible solutions, developing ideas that meet relevant engineering standards, creating prototypes, testing and refining designs, and delivering a final solution that meets the customer’s requirements.

The course has been developed in collaboration with employers and education providers to ensure that students gain the technical knowledge and skills needed by the engineering industry.

Students combine classroom-based learning with practical industry experience through employer engagement activities, projects supported by employers and placements in the workplace. Together, these activities contribute towards the mandatory industry placement requirement of at least 315 hours, approximately 45 days.

The knowledge, practical skills and industry experience gained through the course can support progression into skilled employment, higher or degree apprenticeships, further study or higher education.

For more information about this qualification, visit the official T Level page for Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing:
 

Introduction of T Levels – GOV.UK

T Level Technical Qualification in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing qualifications and training courses | City & Guilds

Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in engineering and a commitment to developing their technical, mathematical and practical skills. Offers are subject to meeting the course entry requirements and successfully completing an interview.

Entry requirements

• GCSE Mathematics at grade 6 or above and GCSE English at grade 5 or above
• Five GCSEs at grade 5 or above

Applicants may also be considered individually if they have:

• A relevant engineering qualification achieved at Merit or Distinction
• Other relevant qualifications or experience, such as GCSE Science at grade 5 or above

Mathematics is a key part of the programme and is embedded throughout the course, including engineering calculations, measurement, data analysis and problem-solving.
 

The course combines core engineering knowledge with specialist skills in mechanical engineering design and development.

Year 1: Engineering Core

Students develop broad knowledge across engineering and manufacturing.

Year 2: Mechanical Engineering Occupational Specialism

Students apply their knowledge to the design, development, modelling, manufacture and testing of mechanical engineering solutions.

Every T Level also includes an industry placement with an employer, focused on developing the practical and technical skills required for the occupation. These will last a minimum of 315 hours, approximately 45 days, but can last longer.

Employers can offer industry placements on a block or day-release basis, or a mixture of these.

This course will be delivered on-site at The Roundhouse campus.

You will learn in a fast-paced environment through a combination of classroom teaching, practical workshop activities, engineering design projects and independent study. You will use equipment and software to develop skills in engineering drawing, CAD, modelling, prototyping, manufacturing and testing. Your learning will also be supported through employer-led projects, industry talks, visits and workplace experience.

Students will need to provide the following essential equipment:

• Personal Protective Equipment (organised on enrolment)
• A scientific calculator
• Basic stationery for classroom and project work

Students will have access to relevant books, e-books and online learning resources through the College library. The teaching team will provide guidance on recommended reading and any optional resources that may support further study.

The course may include optional educational visits and industry activities. Students will be informed in advance of any associated costs and the financial support that may be available.

Students are assessed through two core knowledge examinations, an Employer-Set Project, and a Mechanical Engineering Occupational Specialism practical assignment.

Engineering Core assessments:

• Core Paper 1: Mathematics and Science for Engineering and Manufacturing
• Core Paper 2: Engineering and Manufacturing in Context
• Employer-Set Project: a controlled assessment based on an industry-style engineering brief

Mechanical Engineering Occupational Specialism:

• An externally set practical assignment covering the design, development, modelling, manufacture and testing of mechanical engineering solutions

The Engineering Core grade and Mechanical Engineering Occupational Specialism grade are combined to determine the student’s final T Level grade. Students must also successfully complete all required elements of the programme, including the mandatory industry placement, to achieve the full T Level.

This course allows for progression to the appropriate Level 4, 5 or 6 Engineering qualification.

Alternatively, and with employment in a qualifying role, progression to a Higher or Degree Apprenticeship in the appropriate specialist pathway could be possible.

For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk