Manufacturing Engineers primarily support the activities involved in bringing design programmes into manufacture. This role is pivotal to the launch planning and smooth delivery of exciting new products or product refresh programmes. The focus is on the advanced manufacturing techniques and project management skills required to launch products on time, on cost and to the right quality. Typically Manufacturing Engineers work closely with a range of other engineers, functions, and managers both within their own company and supplier base.
Overview of apprenticeship
Manufacturing Engineers primarily support the activities involved in bringing design programmes into manufacture. This role is pivotal to the launch planning and smooth delivery of exciting new products or product refresh programmes. The focus is on the advanced manufacturing techniques and project management skills required to launch products on time, on cost and to the right quality. Typically Manufacturing Engineers work closely with a range of other engineers, functions, and managers both within their own company and supplier base.
Delivery Plan and Assessment
The Apprentice will study over 4 years part time (APL as listed in the entry criteria section above will possibly decrease this duration) to achieve the Foundation Stage of the knowledge elements in the competence qualification. It will support the fundamental scientific and mathematical principles that equip Apprentices with the understanding required to operate effectively and efficiently at high level within this sector. For the Development Phase the Apprentice will build on their foundation knowledge by completing a further 2 years part time study. Here they will expand their understanding to a higher level and commence on specialised modules during the latter part of this qualification.
Where will this course take me?
This standard has been designed to meet the professional standards of the Engineering Council for initial registration as an Engineering Technician (Eng Tech) in partnership with the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET). Further professional development and registration is subject to candidates successfully completing the appropriate learning, developing the appropriate competence, and undergoing professional review.
Entry requirements
Candidates entering will be required to have a minimum of GCSEs at Grade C (5) or above in Mathematics, English and Science or Technology, as well as either A-Levels at grade C or above in both a Mathematical based subject and a Science, Technology, Engineering or additional Mathematics related subject, or 90+ credits in an Engineering BTEC at Level 3 with Merit or Distinction grade. Learners with additional prior learning (APL) such as a HNC or D in Engineering will be individually assessed and mapped in the programme accordingly from their previous completed studies. All learners will be required to complete an interview with West Suffolk College – University Studies, prior to acceptance on the programme.
Qualifications
Learners will attend a weekly taught session at the University and Professional Development Campus – WSC Bury St Edmunds. You will be supported on your academic programme by Personal Academic Tutor and have access to lectures, workshops, seminars, and assessment sessions. Topics include: - Engineering science and materials - Engineering mathematics - Computer aided design - Workshop principles and practices - Engineering design - Lean management - Industrial automation Apprentices will also receive 1:1 support in the workplace from their allocated Programme Tutor and have access to resources via an e-portfolio system.
How is this funded?
Learners
Apprentices are not required to contribute financially towards Apprenticeship training.
Employers
If you are an employer with an annual wage bill of £3 million or more, you will pay into an apprenticeship levy. This levy is then used to pay for the training element of the apprenticeship course. The total figure for the Apprenticeship is negotiated before enrolment and once confirmed will be taken in monthly payments from your account directly to us or paid to us via invoice should additional fees be required. Once your levy fees are exhausted for 16-24 year old Apprentices the training fee would be paid in full by The Government. For 25+ Apprentices the training fee would be a 25% employer contribution and a 75% Government contribution.
If you are an employer with an annual wage bill of under £3 million, the Government will fund 100% of the training fee for Apprentices aged 16-24. For Apprentices aged 25+ working for a Non-levy paying employer there will be a 5% employer co-investment. You may be required to contribute additional fees which we will invoice the company for. The additional fees will be made known and negotiated prior to the Apprentice enrolment.
There are additional incentives available if you are a small employer (under 50) and if you train/recruit a 16-18 year old or 19-24 year old with an Education Health and Care Plan. Contact us on 01284 716235 or apprenticeships@easterneducationgroup.ac.uk for further details of costs and how Apprenticeships are funded.
Try out our apprenticeship levy calculator here
I'm interested. What should I do now?
Please contact our Apprenticeship team who will be more than happy to support your recruitment needs and build a plan of training specifically for you and your staff. 01284 716235 / Apprenticeships@wsc.ac.uk
Days & times
Please contact us for dates and further information







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