Fabrication and Welding (Intermediate) - Level 2
Overview
Are you interested in a hands-on career in fabrication and welding? This course is designed to help you progress into a variety of roles, including plater/fabricator, sheet metal worker, steel erector/fabricator or welder.
During the course, you will develop your skills on a range of welding platforms such as MIG & TIG and gain a basic understanding of material fabrication. We'll cover engineering knowledge with both theory and practical solutions, and you'll have the opportunity to participate in extensive enrichment activities, such as fabricating and welding a basic structure linked to the course project, as well as trips and visits.
This course is a great foundation for progression to a Level 2 Diploma in engineering programme, including mechanical engineering, welding and fabrication or an apprenticeship. You'll be equipped with the skills and knowledge to pursue a range of careers, including mechanical engineer, CNC operator, toolmaker, aircraft fitter, and composites engineer.
With our strong links to local businesses, we offer work placements that provide valuable on-the-job experience. Many learners have secured permanent, full-time employment with their work placement.
Our partnership with industry employers, such as Toyota, Land Rover, and Pirelli UK, provides exciting work experience opportunities and ensures that you develop the skills and expertise employers in the engineering industry are looking for.
You'll learn in our purpose-built Fabrication and Welding Academy, based at the Engineering Innovation Centre campus.
Join us and start your journey to a successful career in engineering today!
Attend our specialist open event
Discover the exciting opportunities in fabrication and welding at our specialist open event. Get a first-hand look at our courses and apprenticeships, explore our amazing facilities, and meet our expert instructors.
Start dates and fees
| Start Date | Code | Annual Fee (Age) | Actions |
| 16-18 | over 19 |
| Sep 2025 | 1725A1334 | FREE | £500.00** E | Apply |
E You may be eligible for fee exemption depending on your circumstances. Please see our fees for adult learners page for more information.
What will I study?
Working in engineering
This unit will equip you with the fundamental skills and knowledge essential to succeed in engineering or manufacturing sectors. You will learn about safe working practices, environmental awareness, and effective teamwork, which are crucial for success in any industry. Additionally, you'll discover the communication methods that engineers use in their day-to-day work.
Principles of engineering technology
In this unit, you'll explore the core principles of mathematics, science, and materials technology that are essential to engineering applications. You'll learn how to perform commonly used engineering calculations and how to select and modify materials based on their properties and types. We'll also cover the different forms of supply for materials and how to change their properties to suit specific engineering needs.
Principles of fabrication and welding technology
In this unit we'll cover the fundamental principles of welding, fabrication materials, weld symbols and terminology, distortion, weld defects, heat effects of welding, forming allowances, and non-destructive and workshop testing. By the end of this unit, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of the principles that underpin these processes and how they're applied in practice.
Welding by MIG process
In this unit, you'll develop your metal inert gas (MIG) welding skills to meet the defect acceptance requirements of BS 4872 part 1. You'll explore a range of applied knowledge topics, including health and safety hazards and how to avoid them, preparation, electrical requirements, consumables, welding techniques, welding positions, distortion control and rectification, BS 4872 part 1 requirements, and non-destructive and workshop testing. By the end of this unit, you'll be equipped with the skills and knowledge to confidently produce high-quality MIG welds that meet industry standards.
Welding by TIG process
In this unit, you will develop the skills to weld with tungsten inert gas (TIG) and meet the high standards required by BS 4872 part 1 for steel or stainless steel, as well as part 2 for aluminium/aluminium alloys within their scopes. You will learn about health and safety hazards and effective ways to avoid them, as well as the essential techniques for preparing materials, selecting electrical requirements, choosing consumables, positioning the welding torch, and controlling distortion. You will also gain a deep understanding of BS 4872 requirements and learn how to test your welds for defects in non-destructive and workshop settings.
Fabricating sheet metalwork
This unit focuses on the process technology behind creating sheet metal products, covering everything from cutting and forming to assembly and joining. You'll also learn about the crucial health and safety considerations associated with each step of the process.
Entry requirements
- GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 3-9.
If you are not studying a traditional GCSE programme, we accept alternative qualifications like Functional Skills and vocational courses. If you are not planning on sitting GCSE exams, we can also support you with completing an English Language and Maths assessment. Please contact our admissions team for further details:
Applicants aged over 19
If you don't meet the listed entry requirements, you may still be accepted with relevant experience, a strong portfolio, and a commitment to the subject.
Study programmes - essential skills for employment
If you're a student between the ages of 16 and 18 (or 19 to 25 with an EHC Plan) we want to make sure you have the best possible chances of landing an awesome job once you finish college.
Students who haven't achieved a grade 4/C in GCSE maths or English to continue studying these subjects while you're here with us. By doing so, you'll be building a strong foundation of skills that will significantly boost your employability in the future.
Think of it as a chance to supercharge your knowledge and abilities. You'll be equipped with the tools necessary to tackle the world beyond college with confidence. Plus, we'll be right here to support you every step of the way.
In addition, to help you gain essential skills for employment, all students aged 19 and under and studying a full-time course with us will take part in our study programmes.
How will I be assessed?
- Knowledge and skills are assessed using a combination of methods including, practical assessments in a fabrication and welding workshop environment, written knowledge assessments, assignments and online testing.
- Underpinning knowledge will be assessed via online external tests and assignments for all units.
- Practical activities are assessed in our centre using externally set criteria. Performance evidence being the main form of evidence gathered.
- In order to demonstrate consistent, competent performance for a unit, a minimum of three different examples of performance must be provided, and sufficient to show assessment criteria has been achieved to the prescribed standards
What can I progress onto?
Career opportunities