Performing Engineering Operations – Level 2 NVQ

Level: 2 | Duration: 1 Year | Start Date: September

What is this course about?
These level 2 courses will develop practical and theoretical engineering skills including welding, hand fitting as well as machining (turning) in a workshop environment. The course is delivered over one year and includes a combination of theory and practical activities. You will cover topics such as, working safely in engineering, using and communicating technical information and carrying out engineering activities efficiently. This programme will allow you to develop work related skills in preparation for further training or employment. The practical elements of the course include MIG welding, hand fitting and machining. During all the practical lessons you will develop new skills and produce components from scratch to a very high standard.

Why choose to study this course at Riverside College?
You will be joining a supportive and enthusiastic team of qualified engineers who will provide support and guidance throughout your course. You will have the opportunity to work in industry standard workshops and develop the necessary skills to progress further in engineering. Engineering is one of best paid trades in the UK and with a huge shortfall in qualified engineers there has never been a better time to enter the industry.

What will I learn on this course?
You will learn how to work safely and competently in an engineering environment and develop skills in workshop practices to allow you to progress to the next level or to an apprenticeship. You will also have Career development sessions which will involve 1 to 1 discussion with your personal tutor to monitor your progress and support you during your course. On completion of the course, you will be able to confidently operate a lathe, MIG welding set and produce parts from metals using hand tools.

Entry Requirements:
You will need to have at least 4 GCSEs at grades 9 – 3 including English Language and Maths or Level 1 Engineering.

What will this course lead on to?
On successful completion of this course, you could progress to the Level 3 EAL Diploma in Engineering. Alternatively, you could also apply for an engineering apprenticeship if not already selected through the college networks.

Enrichment Opportunities:
You will have an opportunity to take part in a range of enrichment activities including trips to some of the biggest and most advanced engineering companies in the country, Go-karting, Paintballing and lots of career events featuring local companies. We also run many activities on the College campus including 5-a-side football tournaments, engineering competitions and fund-raising events

How will I be assessed?
You will produce a portfolio of evidence that you can keep and will support you during your job applications. The majority of your course is practical meaning you will be physically making or fixing thing that you will keep as evidence.

Are there any costs associated with this course?
A course kit list will be provided, this briefly consists of Personal Protective Equipment: College polo shirts, boots, overalls and eye protection, with the option of purchasing your own welding helmet. Stationary is also required for your studies, including pens, paper and notepads.

What have previous students said about this course?
“I did have the qualifications to start at level 3 but considering that all apprentices need to complete this level 2 NVQ I decided to start on this course, my decision was warranted as l gained an apprenticeship in the new year which meant that l had already completed half the work when l returned on day release.”