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Engineering
Level 3 ‘Technical Level’ Engineering
Course Description
This course is a triple award qualification, equivalent to 3 'A' Levels. A wide range of topics are covered including Health & Safety, Electronics, CAD, Maths and Science for Engineers, Workshop skills and commercial manufacturing techniques. A range of visits to employers and universities compliment the work covered in school.
Basic engineering skills are developed using both traditional workshop skills and more advanced manufacturing techniques. Health & Safety is a big focus in all units, not only when students are working, but also the commercial implications to companies of Health & Safety Law. Students maths and science understanding is also developed during the first year looking at the mathematical and scientific principles which underpin Engineering.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
A variety of assessment tasks are undertaken. Some are practical assessments, some involve written documentation of skills gained, and some are research-based tasks. Students sit exams in Unit 1 (Maths, Physics and Electronics), Unit 3 (Engineering Design) and Unit 6 (Microcontrollers). Unit 1 and 3 are sat in Year 12, and Unit 6 in January of Year 13. One assessment is in the form of a formal written exam; the others are a practical assessment and is completed over a number of lessons. You will be set a problem by the Exam board, and have to design and manufacture a working solution.
Why study Level 3 Engineering?
This course enables student to pursue their interest in Engineering, allowing access to either studying Engineering at University, or entry onto an apprenticeship programme.
How will I be assessed?
A variety of assessment tasks are undertaken. Some are practical assessments, some involve written documentation of skills gained, and some are research based tasks. Up to 2 units will be assessed externally depending on the size of the qualification you choose. One assessment is in the form of a formal written exam; the other is a practical assessment and is completed over a number of lessons. You will be set a problem by the Exam board, and have to design and manufacture a working solution.
What independent study will I have to do?
Independent study is vital to success on this course. This might be preparing for topics that will be taught, recapping work covered in lessons or writing up assessed tasks which will be assessed. Developing a good understanding of the role Engineering plays in our everyday lives will also ensure success
Who is suitable to study this course?
The course is particularly suited to students who have successfully completed a DT or Engineering subject during KS4. However, we have had many students who have achieved excellent grades in Engineering having not studied DT previously. Students who have an aptitude, good work ethic, and willingness to learn are successful even without previous experience.
What other courses complement Engineering?
This course is particularly suited to students who also study A level maths and/or physics as this provides a solid grounding for students wishing to study Engineering at a higher level. This course also provides students with many transferable skills which can be applied to their other studies.
What are the options post-18 and what are the career pathways if you study this course?
Many students continue to pursue something within the field of Engineering. Whilst the majority of students go on to study an Engineering degree at University (in a variety of disciplines) some successfully apply for apprenticeship programmes whilst others gain employment in an engineering environment.
