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Considering a future in Mechanical Engineering? Do you aspire to acquire qualifications that will pave the way for further studies and lucrative job opportunities in this dynamic field? If so, this innovative technical program is tailored to provide you with the fundamental knowledge necessary to kickstart your ideal career. Through this programme, you will undertake a Level 3 T Level qualification in Engineering and Manufacturing with a Mechanical Engineering specialism.

This T Level curriculum is meticulously crafted to impart comprehensive insights into the onsite Engineering industry, along with instilling the essential occupational skills essential for industry entry (referred to as 'threshold competence'). Upon completion, learners are strategically positioned to advance towards full occupational competence with appropriate support and training.

Complementing the technical qualification is a pivotal industrial placement component, where students engage in day-release arrangements, actively participating in industry operations. This hands-on experience not only facilitates the acquisition of vital knowledge and skills but also cultivates the necessary behaviours required to thrive in the industry, ensuring you are primed for immediate employment upon course completion.

  • What will I study?

    The qualification will help you gain an understanding of the engineering industry and the sector, you will cover topics such as:

    • Customer and client requirements
    • Principles of design
    • Design processes
    • Communication in design

    Mechanical Engineering occupational specialism units may include:

    • Knowledge of design methodologies and processes
    • Knowledge of the tools, equipment and materials used in mechanical engineering
    • Knowledge of mathematical theories and methods used in mechanical engineering
    • Skills in producing mechanical drawings and representations
    • Skills in designing and developing working models
    • Skills in testing models and prototypes.
  • Who is this course for?

    This qualification is for 16?19-year-old learners who wish to work within the Engineering industry. It has been designed to deliver a high level of knowledge about the industry as well as the occupational skills required to enter the industry. A learner who completes this qualification is well placed to develop to full occupational competence with the correct support and training.

  • How is the course assessed?
    • Two exams
    • Employer set project
    • Synoptic assignments
    • Formative assessments and homework throughout the course.
    • Observations in placement.
    • Supported by a package of employability and enrichment opportunities to strengthen the core knowledge, skills and behaviours developed during your studies.
  • 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).

  • 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.

  • Progression and Career Opportunities

    When students complete a T Level study programme, students can choose between moving into a skilled occupation, further study, such as higher or degree apprenticeship or a higher-level technical qualification/university.

    Typical job roles may include Engineering Technician, Aerospace Technician, Aviation Engineer, Maritime Engineering, Machinist, Mechatronics Engineer and Toolmaker.

  • 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.

  • 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.