The T Level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing (Mechanical Engineering Pathway) is a rigorous and industry-focused qualification for students ready to take their passion for engineering to the next level. This two-year Level 3 programme combines classroom learning with substantial industry placement, offering a deep dive into mechanical design, CAD, materials analysis, and systems integration. Students will explore how mechanical engineering drives innovation across sectors such as aerospace, automotive, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. The course is ideal for motivated individuals who enjoy solving complex problems, working with precision, and thinking creatively about design and function. With access to modern facilities and expert teaching, learners develop the technical and professional skills needed to thrive in a fast-evolving industry. Successful completion opens doors to higher education in engineering disciplines or direct entry into skilled employment. Career options include mechanical design engineer, product development technician, or engineering project coordinator. The integrated work placement ensures students graduate with real-world experience and a clear understanding of industry expectations. This T Level is perfect for those who aspire to shape the future of engineering through innovation, design, and technical excellence. All students will take part in a six-week monitoring period at the start of their programme. Towards the end of this period, we?ll discuss with you the most suitable course level based on your progress.
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What will I study?
In this T-level, students study core engineering principles and specialize in mechanical design and development. Key areas of study include:
Engineering Principles: Learning the basics of how engineering works, including forces, materials, and mechanics. Mechanical Systems: Studying how parts work together to create functioning machines, such as engines, gears, and levers. Computer-Aided Design (CAD): Using software to design parts and products in 3D, creating models and blueprints. Health, Safety, and Risk Management: Understanding how to work safely, minimize risks, and follow health and safety guidelines. Engineering Project Management: Learning how to plan and manage engineering projects, from initial design to production.
A key part of the T-level is the industry placement, where students spend at least 315 hours (around 45 days) working with an employer. During this placement, students apply their learning in a real engineering setting, gaining experience and insights into the industry. This placement helps develop practical skills, confidence, and an understanding of what working in engineering is really like.
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Who is this course for?
The City and Guilds T-level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing (Mechanical pathway) is a great choice for students interested in mechanical engineering, offering both academic knowledge and hands-on experience to start a career in the field.
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How is the course assessed?
Assessment for the T Level in Mechanical Engineering is a blend of externally set exams, employer-set projects, and ongoing coursework. Students will sit core exams covering engineering principles, mathematics, and science, alongside completing a substantial employer-set project that reflects real industry challenges. In addition, occupational specialism units are assessed through practical tasks and portfolio work, allowing learners to showcase their technical skills in mechanical design and development. The integrated industry placement?lasting a minimum of 45 days?is also a key part of the qualification, offering valuable experience and contributing to the final grade. This varied assessment structure ensures students are well-prepared for both higher education and employment, with a clear understanding of professional standards and expectations.
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Your Study Programme
If you are aged 16-18, you will join a Study Programme this could be a vocational or technical qualification. We will make sure you are working at the right level on your core qualification and are challenged to achieve the highest level of qualification you can.
Work experience will be part of your study programme and complement your college study and prepare you for employment. You will also get involved in activities to help you develop life skills and to build your confidence so you can make progress in your career.
If you have chosen to study for a T Level qualification, this will involve college-based theory and practice lessons along with relevant work placement to enable you to gain the knowledge, skills and behaviours that employers are looking for.
Weekly timetables will include tutorial support which may comprise of full group activities or one to one sessions to discuss individual progress or support needs.
All students will continue to improve their maths and English and if you don't have a grade 4 (C) at GCSE, we will work with you towards achieving that goal (subject to specific entry requirements for particular courses).
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General info
Students on this course will need:
- T level textbook
- General stationery
- Travel costs to placement may be incurred.
You may be required to go on trips or purchase a kit and uniform to undertake this course. Information about individual items and their associated costs will be sent to you in June/July before you enrol.
Some students may be eligible for support from the Student Bursary Scheme with the costs of coming to college. Applications are available on the college website under Student Support. If you require further assistance or would like to speak with a member of Student Services, please email financial.support@northamptoncollege.ac.uk or call 01604 734066.
If you are applying for financial assistance, please do not purchase any kit items. If your application is successful, the necessary items will be provided to you.
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Progression and Career Opportunities
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Entry Requirements for new students
Five GCSEs at grade A*- C (9-5) English Language, Maths and Science GCSEs must be at grade 5 or better Equivalent qualifications will be considered. In exceptional circumstances, applications which do not meet the formal entry criteria may be considered on an individual basis.
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Admissions Process
We recommend that you attend one of our exciting open events so that you can look around the department, the college and meet the tutors. You are welcome to do this before or after you apply. These events have proved very successful in ensuring students and their families see the best of what the college has to offer such as our inspirational teaching areas, teachers, library facilities and places to eat.
Once you have applied our experienced Enrolment Team will consider your application carefully and will let you know, by email, if the College would like to make you a conditional offer based on you meeting the specified entry requirements.
If your predicted grades or career aims suggest that an alternative subject area or course level would be more appropriate for you at this stage, we will contact you either by telephone, email or text. If you have told us that you have some additional support needs, we will contact you to find out more so that we can help you.
