The Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Engineering in the UK is a two-year, full-time qualification typically taken by students aged 16?19 who wish to pursue a career in engineering or progress to higher education in the field. It is equivalent to three A-levels and provides both theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to various engineering disciplines.
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What will I study?
The diploma covers a broad range of engineering principles, preparing students for roles in mechanical, electrical, electronic, or manufacturing engineering. Core subjects include Engineering Principles, Engineering Processes, Mathematics for Engineering, Health and Safety, and Electrical and Electronic Principles. Additional topics might include Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Manufacturing Processes, Pneumatics and Hydraulics, Programming, and Product Design. Students typically complete a combination of units (usually around 15) that may include exams, practical assignments, and projects.
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Who is this course for?
This course is ideal if you have an interest in the technical aspects of General/Mechanical Engineering and wish to gain a Level 3 Diploma in Engineering.
The course is aimed at those who wish to either gain entry to University or those who wish to develop their theoretical knowledge and practical skills to enable them to work in the industry.
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How is the course assessed?
The course is assessed through a mix of externally set exams and internally graded coursework. Practical projects often involve real-world applications of engineering principles, allowing students to develop hands-on skills and technical knowledge. Students are expected to demonstrate both theoretical understanding and practical abilities in areas like problem-solving, project management, and teamwork.
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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 at GCSE, we will work with you towards achieving that goal (subject to specific entry requirements for particular courses).
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Knowledge
You will develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of:
Engineering Principles, Engineering Processes, Mathematics for Engineering, Health and Safety, and Electrical and Electronic Principles.
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Skills
You will have the ability to:
-Students learn essential skills like technical problem-solving, effective communication, project planning, and analytical thinking. -The course emphasizes safe working practices, quality assurance, and efficiency, preparing students for the expectations of engineering workplaces.
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Behaviours
What is required?
- Prioritise health and safety
- Team focus to meet work goals; for example, working effectively with others and resolving issues in discussion with others
- Support an equal, diverse and inclusive culture.
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General info
Students will be expected to purchase some basic equipment relevant to the course. This will be conveyed to them in the form of a kit list, sent via email during the summer before they enrol.
There may be opportunities to go on trips throughout the year, the cost of these will be discussed with students ahead of time.
It is expected that students come prepared for all sessions ? basic stationery is a must.
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Progression and Career Opportunities
After successful completion of the course you could go on to an apprenticeship, an entry-level role in engineering, or further studies - such as an undergraduate degree in engineering or technical fields. This qualification also provides the foundational skills for apprenticeships in sectors like aerospace, automotive, energy, or manufacturing. It can lead to job roles like Engineering Technician, CAD Technician, Mechanical Engineer, or Electrical Engineer.
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Entry Requirements for new students
Four GCSEs at Grade 9-4 including English and maths
Current Level 2 Engineering students will require:
- A pass at Level 2
- 90% attendance
- A good behaviour record
- GCSE in either maths and English at grade 4.
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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.
