Engineering and manufacturing Apprenticeships

Footwear Manufacturer

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Shoe design apprenticeship

If you’re interested in footwear and would love to get involved with a highly respected and skilled trade – this new apprenticeship is one for you. This role includes exciting opportunities available with the likes of sportswear, high-street staples and luxury makers such as New Balance, Dr Martens, Cheaney Shoes and Gaziano & Girling.  

History

The British footwear manufacturing industry, like Saville Row, supports the pursuit of excellence that embraces innovation and technology. With approximately 30 larger footwear manufactures in the UK and 60 smaller specialist ones, they together make up 5.6 million pairs of footwear that is exported and dotted around on our pavements from one street to another.

An artisanal craft that is greatly rewarding, footwear manufacturers are now looking for apprentices to join their small-scale operations making specialist or bespoke / personalised footwear. Depending on the company, your apprenticeship can have you working all the way up to larger factories with extensive teams and international departments, creating larger runs of footwear that can be exported overseas.

Saville row London

The Role of a Footwear Manufacturer

This Level 2 Apprenticeship teaches everything you need to know about the full end-to-end process on how to manufacture a piece of footwear.

Over the course of 12-15 months, you will learn how to work quickly and accurately use hand tools, technical equipment and machinery. You’ll learn how to follow briefs with specification for different types of footwear and learn how to create a majestic range of shoes with varied timescales and quality standards.

If you have a strong eye for detail and quality with a flare for design – this is one to consider!

Footwear manufacturers will join a team, reporting to Team Leaders, Supervisors or Owners as well as interacting with Production Managers, General Managers, Quality Managers and production colleagues. For those in a smaller team, you will also have possible access to clients and designers

Typical day-to-day duties of a Footwear Manufacturer include:
  • Cutting materials (mainly leather) by hand or by machine/laser
  • Skiving (thinning materials)
  • Closing (sewing the upper part of the footwear)
  • Lasting (forming the footwear)
  • Attaching the sole either cemented or stitched
  • Finishing the footwear
  • Quality inspection and packing to company specification

This falls under the engineering and manufacturing route with maximum funding of £5000.

Close up of footwear process

Core Requirements – Knowledge & Skills

Health, Safety & the Environment

  • Safe working practices to minimise hazards and risks from storing equipment to maintaining work procedures
  • Health & Safety legislation to your area of responsibility for others and the environment
  • Effective use of equipment and safe working methods
  • Hazard and risk identification in the work area

Footwear Construction Process

  • Learning the importance of brand quality standards with attention to detail throughout
  • Understanding footwear construction terminology as well as sizing and variations of production for different product types
  • Gaining insight on materials, machinery and equipment required for each stage of the production process

Footwear Materials Tools & Equipment

  • Understanding the characteristics, properties and behaviour of a variety of materials and components used in footwear construction and their suitable application (such as high quality leather for premium footwear or softer materials for ballet dance shoes)
  • Identification of production problems and correct materials and components
  • Preparation for quality check and reporting faults to upper management
  • Learning advancements of production problems and associated corrective actions
  • Performing routine maintenance to ensure the efficiency of machinery, tools and equipment

Footwear Work Practices

  • Instilling company’s history, policy, brand values towards the customer base and product range
  • Helping run a cost effective workflow, following through on specification and appropriate work instructions to meet customer and company requirements
  • Implementing efficient and effective use of materials by closely following instructions and minimising waste
  • Undertaking processes to consistent speed and quality requirements as outlined by the company
Core Requirements – Behaviours
  • A proactive approach to Health & Safety procedures, personally and towards colleagues
  • Demonstrates a positive mind-set towards maintaining high standards of quality, precision and excellence
  • Self motivated, punctual individual who is flexible with change, new requirements and changing priorities
  • Team player that upholds equality and diversity in the workplace
Learner studying book
Entry Requirements:

Individual employers will set the selection criteria and specify the entry requirements applicable to their work.

Should you be without a Level 1 English and Maths certificate, you will be required to take a test for Level 2 prior to taking the end-point assessment towards the end of your contract.

For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, an Entry Level 3 and British Sign Language qualification will also be allowed.  

Conclusion

There are plenty of training opportunities out there, whether you’re looking to up skill, grow dynamically or kickstart your career in another direction whether it’s design, engineering or marketing based. Feel free to browse our other apprenticeships to see what’s best for you.

More on Engineering and Manufacturing opportunities can be found here.

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(Level 3 Apprenticeship) – Food and Drink Maintenance Engineer.

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Image of food and drink for maintenance engineer apprenticeship.

Food and Drink Maintenance Engineer.

Love the food industry and have a passion for engineering? Looking to enhance your skills by using the most advanced and innovative food machinery? This level 3 apprenticeship allows individuals to work with mechanical and electrical machinery plus highly automated programmable control systems. Ideal for students looking to enter the engineering and manufacturing industry with this level 3 food and drink Maintenance engineer apprenticeship.

Job role requirements for Food and Maintenance engineer apprenticeship.

As a food and drink maintenance engineer, employers would expect basic knowledge from their apprentices. Knowing this field will help the apprentice exceed further and succeed to their maximum potential! Achieving these skills will put confidence in the employer when hiring. These simple skills can range from health and safety regulations to operating heat exchange equipment.

Furthermore, entities will be responsible for their daily undergoing tasks and desire to collaborate well within a team environment. Additionally, you should also be able to understand the key features of working with products and how they can affect the food industry. A crucial part of this job role is for individuals to help optimize the food and drink production levels. An apprenticeship allows you to develop your skills while earning at the same time also gain valuable field knowledge.

Core Knowledge

This role requires core knowledge from apprentices on Food processing, manufacturing, and product knowledge such as Dairy, Confectionery, and meat processing. Additionally, apprentices should have knowledge of Legislation and regulations in the food and drink industry a few examples include food safety, health and safety, and hazard analysis critical control point. Apprentice should acquire basic knowledge of sustainability and environmental legislation.

Moreover, apprentice’s should be able to identify the impact of customer requirements and demand on the food supply change, including knowledge on key principles of cleaning. Having knowledge of both in place and out of place processes will be beneficial for an individual progression.

Additional core aspects to consider:

  • Operation of mechanical equipment in the food and drink industry.
  • Learn to produce replacement components.
  • The mobility of fluid power systems.
  • The operation of heat exchange equipment.
  • Bases of electrical systems, including their uses, safety, and legislation.
Image of fruits and laptop.
Use of technology in the food and drink industry.

Core Skills

Plan and prepare for the maintenance of engineered systems in the food and drink industry. Secondly, perform first-line routine mechanical maintenance, including removing and replacing components, cleaning, lubrication, inspection, and fault finding.

Besides, apprentices should be also Apply ‘best practice’ techniques, including condition monitoring and proactive maintenance as well as produce replacement components, using manual and machine processes. As well as being able to apply mathematical techniques to solve engineering problems. Lastly, having the ability to perform first-line electrical maintenance which includes testing, fault finding, repairing, and replacement components.

Entry requirements for level 3 food and drink maintenance engineer apprenticeship.

Applicants must obtain a minimum of level 2 in English, Maths, A Science, and ICT. Level 2 is equivalent to GCSE qualifications. To apply for this apprenticeship applicants must show evidence of the qualifications listed above. This level 3 apprenticeship will help apprentices complete a level 3 diploma in food and drink engineering maintenance and gain valuable work experience within the field.

Also to progress onto the Endpoint assessment for this apprenticeship, apprentices must complete this level 3 apprentices. Additionally, apprentices must complete level 2 Maths and English if not completed already before taking the End Point Assessment.

Apprenticeship duration – (42months – 48months).

Conclusion

This apprenticeship offers individuals a great career path into the mechanical engineering field within the food industry. The food industry is one of the largest industries in the world puts an individual in a great position in their careers. The skills gained from this apprenticeship can help apprentices move onto a higher-level apprenticeship or even full-time job roles within the engineering field.

This is a great opportunity for young individuals who will get the chance to learn and earn while gaining valuable work experience.

To find out additional information on apprenticeships visit the government’s website for a deep dive into apprenticeships. To learn more about Digital marketing Analytics, read our article on Creating reports using – Google Analytics/Adobe analytics.

Food and Drink Engineer Apprenticeship (Level 5)

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Food and Drink Engineer

Are you the kind of person interested in getting into one of the largest, most dynamic, and fastest growing sectors of industry? If so, then find out more below about the Level 5 Food and Drink Engineer apprenticeship opportunity we have on offer.

The role of a Food and Drink Engineer Apprentice

Engineers will manage, maintain and install a diverse range of specialist equipment and technology used in the manufacture of food and drink products. The Food and Drink Engineer apprenticeship is suitable to people new to this sector, together with existing technicians and engineers, who wish to diversify and develop their skillsets, into this specific market. The course will deliver against the nationally recognised Level 5 Food and Drink Engineer Apprenticeship standard, which is equivalent to a higher national diploma.

You’ll fulfil a variety of duties over the 36-month duration within food businesses, dealing with mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, process development, and project engineering.

You will usually work as part of a team including working with other engineers and will interact with other functions and teams within their own company, such as Manufacturing, Production Planning, Health and Safety and Quality. They are responsible for their own work and may be responsible for teams.

Key Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Co-ordinate site-based engineering activities using site standards
  • Implement and operate engineering activities within regulatory requirements
  • Assist the site/company to deliver operational targets, achieving optimal operational efficiency at the lowest cost
  • Support the transition from a reactive to proactive approach to engineering
  • Maintain and optimise the performance of current food and drink manufacturing equipment and machinery
  • Design and install new process lines to meet emerging business needs
  • Embed reliability centered maintenance strategies and techniques
  • Identify the root causes of process and equipment failure and address through the implementation of continuous improvement techniques
  • Lead the development of systems to drive planning and control focussed improvements
  • Lead the efficient and effective delivery of asset care
Food and Drink Engineer

Core technical knowledge, skills and behaviours expected

 Knowledge:

  • Food science and technology; how engineering is used in food and drink production
  • Legislative, regulatory and ethical requirements
  • Engineering processes and equipment including automation and controls to make and deliver products to market
  • Engineering theory and techniques to develop processes
  • Hygienic engineering principles relating to the type of material, machine assembly, design and practice
  • Packing materials in food; inter-relationships with food ingredients, final product and their effects on safety, quality and performance through the supply chain 
  • Problem-solving tools to analyse e.g. Define, Measure, Analyse, Improve Control principles
  • Risk management techniques
  • Overall Equipment Efficiencies
  • Interpretation and evaluation techniques
  • Life Cycle Asset Management, Criticality Analysis & Technology Selection, Intelligent Maintenance, Repair and Operations Optimisation
  • Customer/food trade association standards, such as British Retail Consortium
  • General manufacturing services
  • Manufacturing services specific to food
  • Factory digitisation/optimisation
  • Effective planning and scheduling, including effective communication, team working and project management techniques

Skills:

  • Use engineering principles to deliver products/packaged food
  • Assess team and individual performance, provide feedback to improve; coach and mentor
  • Use IT, digitisation and manual methods to collect data from systems to support engineering projects within the business
  • Plan, for example, labour and engineering materials
  • Influence and communicate with colleagues and others
  • Comply with standard operating procedures, company, legal and regulatory requirements and customer/consumer and engineering standards
  • Use continuous improvement techniques
  • Contribute to the construction and commissioning of equipment and machinery used for producing preserved/fresh and safe food and drink products
  • Evaluate possible failure modes and identify strategy, for example, technical risk assessment methods
  • Analyse operational performance, specification and data
  • Use and develop planned preventative maintenance (PPM) strategies

Behaviours:

  • Takes ownership of work, for example, takes responsibility and ownership of decision making for good food practice; is proactive, and demonstrates initiative
  • Shows pride in work, for example, a strong work ethic, displays a positive mindset and pays attention to detail
  • Committed to self-development, for example, seeks to learn
  • Safe working, for example, promotes a culture of food safety and safe working practices
  • Team player and works collaboratively
  • Shows integrity and respect, for example, promotes good communication at all levels
  • Flexible to changing working environment and demands – responsive to change
  • Shows company/industry perspective for example keeps up to date with industry and market advancement, commercially aware

Entry Requirements & Qualifications

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Individual employers will set their own entry requirements in terms of prior academic qualifications and experience. Typically candidates will have:

Typical Entry Requirements  Requirements
Individual employers will set their own entry requirements in terms of prior academic qualifications and vocational experience. Typically candidates will have 2 A-levels at Grade B or equivalent, including A-level in maths or equivalent and at least one further STEM based subject and 5 GCSEs including English and maths (grade C or above). 
English and Maths Apprentices must achieve level 2 English and maths prior to taking end-point assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement the apprenticeships English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3.

Conclusion

Whether you are currently taking part in a lower level Food and Drink Engineering apprenticeship or are completely new to the sector, the Level 5 apprenticeship is filled with opportunity to grow your skill set in order to kickstart your career in one of the most dynamic industries. Alternatively, if you’d like to browse our variety of other Engineering and Manufacturing apprenticeships, we have a full list for you.

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Level 3 Fashion and Pattern Cutter Apprenticeship

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fashion and pattern cutter at work

Are you the kind of person who loves fashion and patterns to create new styles and designs? If this sounds like you, read on to discover the benefits and technical aspects of completing a Level 3 Fashion and Pattern Cutter apprenticeship. There’s lots to learn in a fashion role and this could be the start of your new career in an exciting and ever-changing industry.

Jobs and Entry Criteria for the Level 3 Fashion and Pattern Cutter Apprenticeship

Fashion and Pattern Cutter apprenticeships can lead to a career in the industry, with the average base salary at around £30k as you get more experienced. As an apprentice, your role may be ‘Assistant Pattern Cutter’ whilst you learn the ins and outs of the role.

It’s important to understand the entry requirements that you will need before enrolling for a Fashion and Pattern Cutter apprenticeship. Although entry requirements will be decided by your employer, you would typically be expected to have achieved an appropriate level of English and Maths in your GCSEs (at a C grade or higher).

If you don’t have these qualifications, don’t worry you can still apply to the apprenticeship but ensure you have your English and Maths grades before undertaking the End-Point Assessment.

If you have an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement the apprenticeships English and Maths minimum requirements will be Entry 3 for you. Additionally, British Sign Language is a recognised qualification as an alternative to English, if this is yours or the applicant’s primary language.

An Overview of the Role

You will be responsible for producing a variety of products from clothing and fashion items and this might range from leather goods, soft furnishings, marine and medical textiles.

It’s important to know who your potential employer might be; pattern cutters can be employed by a range of different sized businesses. The role will involve interpreting a product design brief and you will then draft patterns that reflect the design and technical specifications. You will become familiar with different pattern cutting methods like adjusting and shaping a standard pattern ‘block’, modifying a non-standard pattern base taken from the company library, or creating a pattern using ‘modelling’, which involves draping and pinning fabric over a mannequin and hand-cutting the fabric to form the pattern base. You’ll also learn how pattern production software packages are used using manual and computerised systems.

There are a lot of different layers to the role but the key steps will include interpreting product design briefs and executing these designs by producing product samples. You’ll also learn to adjust your prototype patterns to meet the design and fit of the specification before creating the final product.

Fashion and Pattern Cutter Apprentice – Knowledge

  • Supply Chain and Customer base – aware of quality standards, timescales and production stages.
  • Aware of materials used in production and characteristics– e.g. woven, knitted, non-woven.
  • Understand delivery timescales, production deadlines etc
  • Be aware of the Quality Assurance procedure – recognising any faults, errors and inspect products against specifications.

Working Practices to be aware of:

  • Product Design Briefs, pattern construction techniques, standard and international sizing, measuring techniques, calculations, principles of grading, specialist terminology, tools, sample review techniques, computerised pattern production systems, technical documents and path management process to meet timescales and deadlines.
  • Understand the company’s communication protocol.
  • Policies and procedures: awareness of health, safety, welfare, environmental, workplace policies and understand legislative requirements.

Skills:

  • Understand design briefs.
  • Create template/block patterns.
  • Produce prototype patterns for given designs, evaluate prototype patterns and produce the final master pattern.
  • Able to have good communication skills to maintain good relationships and complete relevant documentation.

Behaviours:

  • Be responsible for work produced and responsive to changes in priorities.
  • Demonstrate a methodical and calm approach and work positively.
  • Be assertive and reflective on behaviour to develop.
  • Have a safety-first attitude.

Conclusion

The Level 3 Fashion and Pattern Cutter apprenticeship is filled with opportunity to grow and learn more if this is the career path for you. The core skills, behaviours and knowledge competencies will be a great way to kickstart your new role. You could work with some large fashion businesses when you start your apprenticeship. Alternatively, if you’d like to learn of other Engineering and Manufacturing apprenticeships, we have a full list for you to browse.

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Level 3 Engineering Design & Draughtsperson Apprenticeship

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Engineering and design image showing the use of digital design and drawing software

Question: Do you like computer aided design? What about industrial and commercial design? Perhaps a multi-disciplinary design qualification could be the start of your new career. Read on to find out more about the Level 3 Engineering Design & Draughtsperson Apprenticeship.

Job opportunities and entry requirement for level 3 engineering design apprenticeship

The engineering design apprenticeship gives successful candidates the opportunity to gain the required knowledge to produce engineering designs and drawings for components, structures and systems used in industrial and commercial construction. The Engineering Design and Draughtsperson apprenticeship provides the apprentice with an understanding across multiple commercial design disciplines:

  • Electrical Design and Draughtsperson
  • Control and Instrumentation Design and Draughtsperson
  • Mechanical Design and Draughtsperson
  • Piping Design and Draughtsperson
  • Structural Design and Draughtsperson

The average Draughtsperson salary in the UK is £23k, ranging up to £32k per year for Piping Design and Draughtsperson job roles. The Engineering Design and Draughtsperson apprenticeship opens the door to a wide range of design disciplines within the commercial environment, a career choice that offers room for movement within industrial design, giving you the ability to find new and exciting opportunities in different areas as you navigate through your career. The level 3 apprenticeship will act as a sturdy foundation for continued growth and development as you progress and discover new prospects.

How do you get on board? Well, typically employers set the entry criterea, but the usual apprenticeship requirements are a minimum of 5 or more GCSE grades A* – C (or equivalent grading). Apprentices must have achieved a GCSE to at least a grade C, a level 2 qualification in Functional Skills or an equivalent qualification in both English and Mathematics before being entered for their final apprenticeship assessment. An employer may still consider you suitable for a job role irrespective of background if you fit the bill for their business. You will be provided with the opportunity to attain English Maths certification during the apprenticeship if required.

Core responsibilities of an Engineering Design and Draughtsperson apprentice

The core responsibilities of an Engineering Design and Draughtsperson is to design engineering concepts to solve engineering challenges, identify inaccuracies or discrepancies in engineering drawing and specifications and propose solutions, evaluation of engineering designs to determine the most effective solution, and produce detailed engineering drawings to relevant standards and codes, using paper and computer. An Engineering Design Draughtsperson will work across a wide range of projects ensuring good communication and co-ordination of engineering designs with relevant stakeholders, colleagues and clients using sketches, schemes, models, detailed drawings, and reports.

Level 3 Engineering Design and Draughtsperson Key Competencies

Your job role will consist of responsibilities that will fulfil a range of competencies. These include:
• Work safely at all times, complying with relevant national and industry health and safety requirements.
• Work in accordance with company management systems, policies and procedures
• Employ the appropriate use of computer-based technology.
• Review and interpret technical information and requirements from different sources e.g. specifications, concepts, stakeholders
• Identify and assess factors that affect designs e.g. materials, application, location, risk and environment
• Develop effective solutions which satisfy the required standards and can be manufactured, proven, operated and maintained in a cost-effective way whilst minimising costs.
• Check completed drawings for quality, technical compliance and completeness – both own or those of peers.

Technical engineering design of medical equiptment on digital CAD software

Engineering Design and Draughtsperson knowledge modules and vendor exams

To complete the Engineering Design and Draughtsperson qualification, you must gain the required knowledge to work within a wide range of engineering design disciplines, in a safe and professional manner. The assessments will enable your understanding of the following:

Discipline – Electrical:

  • Electrical power generation & distribution including the principles of voltage transformation
  • Lighting & small power systems design
  • The principles of earthing & lightning protection
  • Cable types, specification, and installation requirements

Discipline – Control and Instrumentation:

  • Combinational and sequential logic and control systems
  • Process and Instrument Diagrams (P&ID)
  • Instrument principles and application
  • Digital and analogue devices and circuits and their application in measurement and control
  • Cable types, specification, and installation requirements

Discipline – Mechanical:

  • Mechanical principles, material selection and application
  • Mechanical annotation including geometrical tolerances, limits and fits, surface finishes
  • Mechanical handling
  • Welding, fasteners and fabrications

Discipline – Piping:

  • Piping and flow control
  • Service conditions such as flow rates, material characteristics, temperature and working pressures
  • Isometrics
  • Pipe supports, welding, fittings, valves and associated equipment
  • Process and Instrument Diagrams (P&ID)

Discipline – Structural:

  • Structural principles and application
  • General arrangements of structures showing multiple materials including: steel, concrete, masonry, timber
  • Construction processes, methods and details
  • Detailed production drawings for steel and reinforced concrete

In order to complete the qualification successfully you must demonstrate your skills and knowledge gained throughout the apprenticeship. The apprentice will be required to complete an EPA (End-point assessment) to show they are fully competent in their occupational job role. The EPA is made up of three assessment tools:

  • Knowledge Test
  • Practical Test
  • Structured Interview

Further detail on the End-point assessment can be found in the Egineering Design and Draughtsperson document below.

engineering_design_and_draughtsperson.pdfDownload

Conclusion

So, do you like the idea of starting a career as an Engineering Design and Draughtsperson. This level 3 qualification gives you the opportunity to earn while you learn, offering a wide range of specialist technical knowledge and transferable skills that will give you the foundation to progress and level-up your career. If you are looking for a route into the engineering and manufacturing industry, this is it.

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Level 4 Brewer Apprenticeship

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Brewery is the art of fermenting and producing the widely enjoyed, alcoholic beverage: Beer. As well as beer production, a Brewer apprentice can be expected to understand and take responsibility for compliance with relevant regulatory requirements, you may also have a role in design and development of new brands. With nearly 30 apprentice employers in the UK, a level 4 Brewery apprenticeship provides you with the unique opportunity to launch your career in the beverage industry and earn while you learn.

Brewer’s Knowledge

Over the course of your brewer apprenticeship, you will gain knowledge and understanding of:

  • The provenance, quality and characteristics of principle beer ingredients and their contribution to beer style and character.
  • Ingredient processing and requirements.
  • Stock control, handling and storage of beer and its ingredients to preserve quality.
  • Principles of brewing, fermentation, yeast management, conditioning, maturation, stabilization, clarification, processing and packing, plant design, operation and the impact of processing conditions on the characteristics, quality and consistency of beer.
  • Principles and importance of plant hygiene.
  • Transport and supply chain conditions (including but not limited to beer dispense from Brewery to glass).
  • Brewery monitoring systems controlling quality, consistency and safety of ingredients and raw materials.
  • Drivers of brewery operation and performance including costing and maintenance.
  • Commercial awareness of brewery operation and all brewery inputs and outputs.
  • Sustainability factors and environmental considerations.
  • Regulation compliance.
  • Continuous improvement processes
  • The heritage and structure of the beer industry.

Brewer’s Skills

A Brewer is expected to demonstrate the following skills:

  • Control and safe operation of automated and / or manual plant and equipment required for beer production.
  • Maintenance of accurate beer recipes
  • Design and adjustment of beer specifications
  • Planning to ensure production schedules are met.
  • Quality and safety control checks
  • Monitoring quality control and consistency
  • Implementation and monitoring of cleaning and sanitation processes.
  • Monitoring and maintenance of yeast hygiene, vitality and viability.
  • Use of computer word processing and data manipulation packages.
  • Contribution to CI activities to improve and optimise production processes.
  • Promotion of the brewery and attributes and characteristics of key brands and styles.

Brewer’s Behaviours

Brewers are expected to demonstrate the following behaviours:

  • Lead by example in behaviour and approach to working safely.
  • Passion for the industry and products
  • Demonstration of integrity and confidence.
  • Curiosity and desire to innovate and expand knowledge.
  • Calmly and consistently react to information.
  • Committed to delivering and maintaining high-quality product and work place standards.
  • Demonstration of responsibility, personal accountability and professionalism in all aspects of the role.
  • Flexible and adaptable to working environment.
  • Confidently and competently communicated relevant information to team members and others in an appropriate manner.
  • Works collaboratively as part of a team.

Level 4 Brewer Apprenticeship: Course Details

If a brewer apprenticeship appeals to you, you can find more details below or alternatively start your search for all approved apprenticeships here on the UK government website.

Duration: 18-24 months

Requirements: Level 2 English and Mathematics. British sign language qualification is an alternative to English qualifications for those whom this is their primary language.

Potential Employers for a brewer apprenticeship:

Adnams, Arran Brewery Plc, Big Hug, Brewdog, Brewhouse & Kitchen, Castle Rock, East London Brewing, Five Points Brewing, Frederic Robinson Ltd, Fullers, Greene King, Hall and Woodhouse, Heineken, Hepworths, Hobsons Brewery, Hogsback brewery, Ignition, Innis and Gunn, London Brewing co, Marstons, MolsonCoors UK, Shepherd Neame, Southbourne Ales, Thameside brewery, Thwaites, Wadworth, Wimbledon brewery.

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Level 3 Engineering Design and Draughtsperson Apprenticeship

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If the sound of problem solving, engineering design, gaining industry experience and a recognised qualification sounds like the perfect mix; then the Level 3 Engineering design and draughtsperson apprenticeship is perfect for you. Want to know more? Read on and kick-start your dream career.

Engineering design and draughtsperson overview

An engineering design and draughtsperson apprenticeship is the perfect route if you have a passion for construction/engineering, problem solving and design. This apprenticeship will cover a number of areas such as: Electrical Design, Control and Instrumentation Design, Mechanical Design, Piping Design and Structural Design. When you become and official engineering design and draughtsperson you could be looking at an average salary of £28k, meaning that this is not a career path you want to miss out on. The engineering design and draughtsperson apprenticeship will provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to progress into a full-time career. Engineering design is needed now more than ever due to population, business and economic growth; this is the perfect time to build your skills and knowledge and start a career path that you can be proud of.

Entry criteria for the engineering design and draughtsperson apprenticeship

The level 3 engineering design and draughtsperson apprenticeship will take up to 42 months to complete, so patience and dedication will be needed. Depending on the employer’s needs, the entry requirements for the engineering design and draughtsperson apprenticeship typically stands with a minimum of 5 GSCEs. If you have completed A-Levels or have experience in areas such as engineering, it can increase your chances of being offered an interview. If you haven’t been able to complete or gain the results needed in Maths and English, don’t worry! You will be given the opportunity to complete your qualifications during the apprenticeship.

Key Responsibilities of an engineering design and draughtsperson apprentice

The main objectives to the role of engineering design and draughtsperson are to help with the inner workings of the build. This includes looking at and designing the layouts for electrical, structural, mechanical and piping elements. You can primarily focus of one of these areas, but you will explore and understand each section. Your role will be to understand technical drawings and specifications for each build and design you own layouts; be able to identify problems and offer solutions; produce CAD (computer aided design); be able to effectively communicate with 2nd and 3rd parties and much more. An important aspect to this apprenticeship is communication as you will be discussing designs/layouts, changes made etc. to ensure the everything runs smoothly and up to standard.

Level 3 engineering design and draughtsperson apprenticeship Core Elements

By the end of the apprenticeship, you will have the knowledge and understanding to progress and become a full time Engineering design and draughtsperson.

What you will learn by the end of the apprenticeship:

Skills

  • Work safely at all times, complying with relevant national and industry health and safety requirements
  • Work in accordance with company management systems, policies and procedures
  • Employ the appropriate use of computer-based technology
  • Review and interpret technical information and requirements from different sources e.g. specifications, concepts, stakeholders
  • Identify inaccuracies or discrepancies in engineering drawings and specifications and propose solutions
  • Identify and assess factors that affect designs e.g. materials, application, location, risk and environment
  • Design engineering concepts to solve engineering challenges
  • Develop effective solutions which satisfy the required standards and can be manufactured, proven, operated and maintained in a cost-effective way whilst minimising costs
  • Evaluate engineering designs to determine the most effective solution
  • Produce detailed engineering drawings to relevant standards and codes, using paper and computer
  • Check completed drawings for quality, technical compliance and completeness – both own or those of peers
  • Communicate and co-ordinate engineering design options with relevant stakeholders, colleagues and clients using sketches, schemes, models, detailed drawings and reports

Knowledge

  • Relevant national and industry health and safety, standards and legislation and those relevant to the specific disciplines, as appropriate
  • Company management systems, policies and procedures
  • Document management and change control
  • Engineering codes and standards
  • Common engineering principles and the application of maths and science to engineering
  • Fundamentals of engineering drawing and design
  • Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, its appropriate application including 2D and 3D modelling
  • Understand the impact of relevant factors that are important to the design e.g. the context in which you are working, the materials, components, assemblies, cost, quality, safety, security, risk, environmental impact, ergonomics, aesthetics, the end use and purpose of the design
  • Manufacturing and/or construction methods as appropriate to the specific disciplines
  • Relevance and application of Building Information Modelling (BIM)

Behaviours

  • Have a strong work ethic including attention to detail and commitment to completing the task in hand
  • Take personal responsibility for own work, set the right example for others and actively seek opportunities for quality improvement
  • Apply and uphold principles of ethics and sustainability
  • Commitment to advancing own learning and competence, showing a willingness to learn new skills and an openness to others’ ideas and input
  • Use effective communication and interpersonal skills, showing sensitivity to others and working collaboratively
  • Accept and promote equality and diversity

Conclusion

The level 3 engineering design and draughtsperson apprenticeship isn’t something to take likely, a lot of time and dedication will be involved but it will be worth every minute. By going through the apprenticeship you will not just gain a highly recognised qualification, but first-hand experience and industry knowledge. Other advantages to the apprenticeship scheme are that you earn while you learn, the apprenticeship is free to you and you can continue down the apprenticeship route once you have completed your Level 3! There is no better time to start your dream apprenticeship then now and gain the skills for a successful career.

To find out more about apprenticeships, you can view more blogs here at Apprentice Tips or contact Apprentice Now. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive up to date information and articles on apprenticeship standards.

Level 6 – Embedded electronic systems design and development engineer (degree) Apprenticeship

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Apprentice working through an electronic engineering apprenticeship
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If working on and helping design the latest smartphones, electric cars, and satellites sounds like the role for you, then read on to find out how the Level 6 Embedded electronic systems design and development engineer apprenticeship could help you kick-start your career with an electronics qualification.

Jobs and entry criteria for the level 6 Embedded electronic systems design and development engineer (degree) Apprenticeship

An embedded electronic systems design and development engineer usually works within a variety of industrial sectors such as; Aerospace, Automotive, Automation and Instrumentation, Robotics, Telecommunications, Information and Computer Technology, Defence, Energy (including renewables), Transport, and Consumer Electronics. The electronic circuits or devices the engineer designs;

  • Provide a useful function.
  • Are capable of being manufactured at a competitive cost.
  • Are reliable and safe in use.

Being able to do this effectively requires the engineer to have in-depth knowledge of electronics and electronic principles coupled with knowledge on how the end result works and is to be used.

Individual employers will set their own entry requirements in terms of prior academic qualifications and experience. Typically candidates will have attained A-Level standard or equivalent, in Maths and at least one further STEM based subject such as Physics, ICT, Computing or Electronics and will have English Language at GCSE (grade C or above).

Key responsibilities of an embedded electronic systems design and development engineer apprentice

The primary role and key responsibilities of an embedded electronic systems design and development engineer is to design electronic circuits or devices for a variety of purposes within various industrial sectors.

Embedded electronic systems design and development engineers are experts in both electronics and electronic principles, they must apply their vast knowledge and understanding of CAD technology in order to design electronics with understandings of all the factors that come into play, creating the desired circuit or device.

Level 6 – Embedded electronic systems design and development engineer (degree) Core Competencies

As a part of this electronic engineering apprenticeship, apprentices will learn the fundamental scientific and mathematical principles that equip them with the understanding required in order to successfully fill their role to a high level within their chosen sector. The apprentice will also be supported with additional vocational training to develop specific competencies for a particular role.

Successfully completing the level 6 – Embedded electronic systems design and development engineer (degree) apprenticeship will award you with an Honours Degree in Electronics or Electrical & Electronic Engineering which has been accredited by one of the Professional Engineering Institutions licensed by the UK Engineering Council.

Embedded electronic systems design and development engineer assessment

The embedded electronic systems design and development engineer (degree) apprenticeship will typically take 3 years (36 months) to complete. In order to demonstrate the knowledge you’ve gained, you will be required to complete an assessment. The assessment of this apprenticeship will include both on-programme assessment and a synoptic, end-point assessment.

Upon successful completion of this apprenticeship, the individual will have achieved an electronics qualification degree recognised by the relevant Professional Engineering Institutions.

Conclusion

As you can see, the level 6 embedded electronic systems design and development engineer (degree) apprenticeship is an in-depth and complex apprenticeship that covers a wide range of electronic specialisms and can be very rewarding to those passionate about electronics. The skills and knowledge gained from this electronic engineering apprenticeship will supply the apprentice with a recognised degree in their field, helping them to kick-start the career in a wide range of industrial sectors, helping design some of the most important and widely used electronic technologies used in the modern world. Electronics are always moving forward meaning that this career path has huge potential for leaps and bounds of development in the future.

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Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprenticeship

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Do you love Boats, building, and repairing? Are you handy with tools, interested in engineering, or looking to change careers altogether? Read on to find out how the Level 3 Boatbuilder apprenticeship could land you your dream job and kick-start a new career!

Key responsibilities of the Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprenticeship

What does a Boatbuilder Apprentice do?

A boatbuilder apprentice builds boats such as yachts, workboats, and superyachts and/or refit and repair existing boats. A variety of different materials such as composites, metals, or wood will be used. A boatbuilder apprentice will learn to work with and understand the capabilities of these materials.

You will learn to read and interpret engineering and technical drawings to produce molds, jigs, plugs, and templates during your boatbuilder apprenticeship. As an apprentice, you will learn to use these to create complex shapes using and variety of measuring equipment, machines, and hand tools. You will be expected to work individually and as part of a team.

You will manufacture and assemble components that form the structure of a boat as well as the interior and exterior as a boatbuilder. A understand and compliance with organisational and statutory safety including sustainability requirements is a must.

During your apprenticeship, you will be responsible for the quality and accuracy of your work. Apprentices should eventually be able to work with minimum supervision, therefore, you must be able to communicate and solve problems well.

During your boatbuilder apprenticeship, you will have the opportunity to work with associated trades such as Marine Engineers, as a result, you will gain a strong understanding of the marine industry.

Upon successful completion of the boatbuilder apprenticeship, you will be multi-skilled and capable of adapting to changing demands. Boats are becoming more complex, and new materials and methods are regularly being introduced. This means throughout your exciting career as a boatbuilder, you will be learning, adapting, and evolving.

This apprenticeship will be recognised by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) at ‘Engineering Technician’ level on successful completion.

Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprentice working with mentor.
Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprentice working with mentor.

Entry criteria for the Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprenticeship

Wondering how to become a boatbuilder?

Individual employers will identify any relevant entry requirements when applying for a boatbuilder apprenticeship. Most candidates will typically have GCSEs (or equivalent) at A*- C including maths, English, and possibly a relevant science.

If you’re applying for the boatbuilder apprenticeship without GCSE English and maths will need to achieve this level before taking the End-Point Assessment (EPA). Your apprenticeship provider will be able to assist you with this. Head over to ApprenticeNow.com to find out more about this.

For those with an education, health and care plan, or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is an alternative to the English qualification for those whose primary language is BSL.

Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprentice working.
Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprentice working with material.

Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprenticeship Core Competencies

Behaviours – Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprenticeship

  • Appropriate safety behaviours individually and towards others
  • A commitment to quality and continuous improvement
  • Commercial awareness and business acumen
  • A focus on the requirements of the customer
  • An ability to work effectively individually and as part of a team
  • An ability to communicate with all levels of the organisation
  • A strong work ethic including motivated, committed, meticulous, reliable, proactive, and adaptable behaviours
  • A recognition and appreciation of equality and diversity in the workplace

Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprenticeship – Skills

Work method – Skills:

  • Prepare the work area and maintain safe, clean, and efficient work methods and environments
  • Identify and minimise hazards and risks in the workplace
  • Select, use, maintain and store equipment, tools, and materials
  • Follow and maintain work procedures, method statements, and production records
  • Make the most efficient and effective use of resources, time, and materials

Identify and respond to customer needs – Skills:

  • Prepare for meetings and discussions and use appropriate listening, questioning, recording, and presentation techniques
  • Use appropriate marine terminology
  • Use estimating techniques to support discussions

Planning and set up – skills:

  • Review and verify designs and plans
  • Finalise time and cost of the work to be done
  • Identify and source equipment, machinery, tools, and materials
  • Make, produce and use jigs and templates as required
  • Set up tools and machinery

Manufacture and assemble/ disassemble and repair components – Skills:

  • Manufacture or repair components to the required specification
  • Move components using the appropriate safe methods
  • Check components for robustness, fit, and tolerances
  • Analyse problems with machinery, equipment,
  • tools and material, proposing/implementing solutions where appropriate
  • Move, shape, and manipulate components to achieve the best fit
  • Select and use appropriate methods for holding materials and components in place, and for the connecting, fixing, and assembly of materials and components
  • Safeguard materials and components during assembly
  • Select suitable methods of repair that are effective and maintain original construction
  • Select suitable methods for fault finding and analysis
  • Make repairs whilst safeguarding the integrity of components and the surrounding area
  • Identify, mark, store and organise dismantled parts for reassembly

Fit-out – skills:

  • Determine the order and work methods
  • Install and fix components using the most appropriate method and material
  • Ensure that joins are suitably made and treated
  • Position and fit items
  • · Finalise fit-out for deck hardware

Finish – skills:

  • Check joins are sealed and fit for purpose
  • Prepare surfaces, treat suitably and ensure are free from defects and protected
  • Soften or suitably finish edges
  • Assess the quality of work

Support commissioning and sea trials – Skills:

  • Assess fixtures and fittings for quality and stability
  • Contribute to the commissioning of the boat as required
  • Assemble required documentation
  • Brief recipients verbally with the necessary documentation

Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprenticeship – Knowledge and understanding

Work methods – Knowledge and understanding:

  • The purpose of a range of equipment, tools, and materials
  • The characteristics and reaction of materials to their environment e.g. temperature, humidity, pressure
  • Safe and efficient methods of use, maintenance, movement, protection, and storage of materials
  • Work hazards and safe working methods
  • Broad knowledge of other marine trades to understand their needs
  • How to produce and interpret engineering drawings and understand boatbuilding terminology

Identify and respond to customer needs – Knowledge and understanding:

  • The international marine industry and the company’s place within it
  • The company’s products and services
  • The role of formal and informal communication
  • The uses of information technology in the workplace
  • Principles of costing, pricing, and budgeting

Planning and set up – Knowledge and understanding:

  • The company’s process for design, planning, and set up
  • How to obtain the required specifications using selected procedures
  • The conventions underpinning technical documentation the roles and safe and efficient uses of machinery
  • The uses of templates
  • Vessel design and construction, complex shapes, and the applications of geometry
  • The bill of materials methodology and reporting of discrepancies
  • Feedback on drawing and specification errors of modifications required

Manufacture and assemble/ disassemble and repair components – Knowledge and understanding:

  • The appropriate uses of measuring aids and equipment
  • The basic principles of contingency planning and of problem-solving
  • The options and constraints during assembly
  • Working with complex shapes and curves
  • The scope of materials for shaping and manipulation
  • Methods ptions for holding and clamping components before assembly
  • The properties, uses, and limitations of materials for connecting, fixing, and assembling components
  • De-storing a vessel for repair, safeguarding and protecting all removed items.
  • Methods of disassembling boats for repair
  • Fault finding techniques
  • A range of new and traditional techniques for boatbuilding

Fit out – Knowledge and understanding:

  • The options for connecting similar and dissimilar materials
  • Types and uses of deck hardware and the forces applied
  • The options for fixing components in place
  • Understanding service and maintenance requirements

Finish – Knowledge and understanding:

  • The options for connecting similar and dissimilar materials
  • Types and uses of deck hardware and the forces applied
  • The options for fixing components in place
  • Understanding service and maintenance requirements

Support commissioning and sea trials – Knowledge and understanding:

  • Manufacturers’ specifications and requirements
  • Guidance for the care and maintenance of materials
  • The relevant documentation
  • Boat handling skills
  • Understand the requirements for basin and sea trials
  • Principles of practice for working on or near water

Conclusion

As you can see, the level 3 Boatbuilder apprenticeship is an exciting and excellent starting point for anyone looking to pursue a career in boatbuilding. The core skills, knowledge, and behaviours covered in this apprenticeship will open up a range of future opportunities for you.

With an apprenticeship you will earn while you learn, also your training is free to you, and there are plenty of opportunities for further education after completion. Why not take a look at our full list of approved Engineering & Manufacturing Apprenticeships here.

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Aerospace Engineer Apprenticeship (Level 6 – Degree)

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Do you have a high level of attention to detail, excellent numeracy and IT skills, and a love of flying vehicles? Aerospace Engineering could be the career for you! Read on to find out more.

Table of Contents

  1. Career Overview
  2. Entry Criteria
  3. Key Responsibilities
  4. Core Competencies
  5. Knowledge Modules and Vendor Exams
  6. Conclusion

Career Overview

Completing the level 6 Aerospace Engineer apprenticeship unlocks many doors into the world of Aeronautical and Astronautical engineering: in other words, you will be able to make anything from drones to rockets fly in the sky or beyond.

The duration of this degree apprenticeship is typically 48 months; however, this will vary based on factors such as job role, prior qualifications, etc.

Specific careers titles that are typical of this degree include Aircraft Mechanic, Aerospace Engineer, Aircraft Engineer and Advanced Aircraft Manufacturer. The average salary for careers in Aerospace Engineering field in the UK is £48,000 per annum*; £18,400 higher than the national average. As your career progresses, you can expect a salary of £70,000+ in a senior job role.

*according to jobted.com

Entry Criteria

As this is a degree apprenticeship, applicants are often required to have at least level 3 qualifications or 96 UCAS points or equivalent, preferably including STEM based subjects. An example of this could be A levels which include. Some example STEM subjects would be Maths, Physics, ICT, or Computing.

This would be alongside 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including the foundation subjects of Maths, English, and Double science or equivalent.

As with most apprenticeships, you must have level 2 Maths and English qualifications to complete the qualification, however if you don’t already have these you will get the opportunity to complete these during the apprenticeship if required.

Key Responsibilities

As an Aerospace Engineer, you will be working in research and development, testing, and production and maintenance of aircraft or spacecraft technology. It is vital that quality checks and procedures are carried out regularly and correctly to remain in line with health and safety regulations in this job role, as there is a lot of equipment and resources used that could pose a high risk.

Rocket launch - Aerospace Engineer Apprenticeship Career
Rocket launch at Aerospace Engineering Station

Core Competencies

As part of the apprenticeship, you’ll have to carry out duties in order to satisfy a number of core competencies. Some examples are:

  • complying with statutory, organisational, environmental, health and safety regulations
  • applying analytical methods (engineering mathematics – algebra, differentiation, function, geometry, trigonometry, statistics)
  • a wide range of technical skill sets that can be applied in a range of aerospace disciplines and contexts that could include research, development, design, procurement, logistics, planning, production, quality assurance, inspection, testing, installation, commissioning, maintenance, life cycle management, decommissioning, and environmental compliance such as:
    • Planning what has to be done, when and by whom
    • Ensuring that resources are available and capable of achieving the required outcomes.
    • Allocating and deploying resources in a timely manner
    • Completing/project managing work outputs/programmes to the required specification
    • Monitoring programmes of work and report progress to appropriate personnel.
    • Agreeing any amendments to work specification/work requirements
    • Ensuring that quality assurance requirements are adhered to
    • Retaining and storing documentation and records for traceability

Knowledge Modules and Vendor Exams

There are three qualifications that need to be completed in order to complete the apprenticeship. These are:

  • Level 2 Diploma in Aerospace and Aviation (Foundation Competence)
  • Level 4 Diploma in Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing (Development Competence)
  • Level 6 Bachelor Honours Degree (BEng) Stipulated by the employer and accredited by an Engineering Council licenced Professional Engineering Institution

All of these have to be completed in order to get the final certification. The apprenticeship is industry recognised, aligning with the current UK Standard for Professional Engineering Competence (UK-SPEC) at Incorporated Engineering (IEng) level.

Conclusion

You’ll certainly come very close to the common childhood dream of becoming an astronaut in the Aerospace Engineering career, working with prestige companies behind the scenes shaping the future and helping unlock much more of the undiscovered universe.

To find open positions offering an Aerospace Engineer degree apprenticeship, you can check out the Government website or by contacting training providers such as Apprentice Now. Not the career for you? That’s fine, you can find more apprenticeships in the UK here on our blog.