Engineering (Adults) - Level 3 | Blackpool and The Fylde College

Summary

This qualification is ideal for adult learners with GCSEs or those progressing from a Level 2 programme who want to continue their education through applied learning and are aiming to progress to higher education. It provides a strong foundation for further study or direct entry into employment within the engineering sector.

All students will complete two mandatory units covering key topics:

Mathematics for engineering
Engineering principles
Mechanical principles
Engineering processes

This course equips learners with essential knowledge and skills to support their next steps in higher education or employment.

Next course dates

Start date	Location	Duration
10 Sep 2025	Bispham Campus	1 Year	Apply now
10 Sep 2026	Bispham Campus	1 Year	Apply now

Where can this subject lead?

Career progression

Upon successful completion of the BTEC Level National Certificate in Engineering, learners are well-positioned to take the next steps in their career or education. The qualification develops both theoretical understanding and hands-on technical skills that are valued by employers and higher education institutions alike.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of this course may progress into a variety of entry-level roles across the engineering and manufacturing industries, including:

Engineering Technician
Maintenance Engineer
Production Operative
Quality Control Technician
CAD Technician

These roles span across sectors such as aerospace, automotive, energy, electronics, and precision manufacturing.

Next steps at B&FC

Graduates of the BTEC Level 3 National Certificate in Engineering gain strong technical skills and knowledge, opening pathways to higher education. Progression options include HNCs in Engineering, Mechanical, Manufacturing, Electrical and Electronic, and Aeronautical Engineering. Learners can also advance to degrees such as BEng in Robotics and Automation, Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical and Electronic, Industrial, or Automotive Engineering, leading to specialised careers and advanced roles within the industry.

Other study options

Students who successfully complete this course have the opportunity to continue their learning and career development by applying for an Advanced Apprenticeship or a Higher Apprenticeship.

Employment Opportunities

Potential Job Titles:

Engineering Technician
Manufacturing Technician
Mechanical Engineering Technician
Production Operative
Maintenance Technician
Toolroom Technician
Process Operative
Junior CAD Technician
Technical Support Assistant
Machine Maintenance Assistant

These roles are typically found in sectors such as manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, energy, and electronics, and many can lead to apprenticeships or further development within the company.

Key information

Entry Requirements

Applicants are required to have a minimum of three GCSEs at Grade 4 (C) or above, including either Maths or English.

Alternatively, applicants with a relevant Level 2 qualification or appropriate industry experience will also be considered.

You must be aged at least 19 on or before 30 August, and you must be able to attend one full day per week as part of the course commitment.

Qualification obtained

BTEC National Certificate in Engineering

Extra costs and equipment

You will need to provide your own safety boots, safety goggles and overalls / boiler suit for practical activities. A typical pair of safety boots should cost no more than £12 and a pair of overalls £15. All other protective equipment will be provided by us.

All tools and equipment are provided for practical sessions and access to computers and all software required for the course is available within the College facilities.

You will be expected to provide your own pen, pencil, calculator and basic drawing equipment and a note pad.

What will I learn?

The course is made up of two mandatory units that provide a well-rounded introduction to core engineering concepts.

You will develop essential mathematical skills used in engineering, including algebra, trigonometry, calculus, and statistics, helping you apply maths confidently to real-world engineering problems.

You will also explore key principles that underpin engineering work, such as forces, energy, electrical circuits, and materials, and learn how these apply across mechanical and electrical engineering fields. You will also examine the behaviour of mechanical systems, including motion, energy transfer, stress and strain, and mechanical advantage, which will help you understand how machines and mechanical components operate and are designed.

The course also covers the methods and techniques used in engineering manufacture and maintenance, including machining, joining, quality control, and health and safety practices in the workshop.

By completing this programme, you will gain a strong foundation in the essential knowledge and practical skills needed for higher education or a career in engineering.

Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers

Although an industry placement is not compulsory, we have strong links with local employers who offer valuable work experience opportunities for our adult learners.

You will also have the chance to take part in industry visits and attend guest speaker events to further enhance your understanding of the sector.

How will I learn?

You will learn through a combination of practical workshops, classroom-based sessions, and independent study. The course is designed to develop both your hands-on technical skills and your theoretical understanding of engineering principles.

Learning methods include:

Practical tasks and projects in a workshop or laboratory environment
Classroom teaching focused on theory, technical knowledge and problem-solving
Group work to build teamwork and communication skills
Coursework assignments that demonstrate your knowledge and practical abilities
Opportunities to visit industry sites and hear from guest speakers to connect learning with real-world applications

Assessment will be through coursework and practical tasks rather than formal examinations, allowing you to apply your skills and knowledge in realistic scenarios.

How will I be assessed?

Units Covered

During the course, you will study the following units:

Unit 1 – Engineering Principles - Assessed through external exam
Unit 2 – Delivery of Engineering Processes as a team - Assessed though coursework

Assessment

The course uses a mix of external assessment and coursework to evaluate learners’ understanding and skills. Unit 1, Engineering Principles, is an externally assessed unit, meaning learners will complete a written examination set and marked by the awarding body. Unit 2 is assessed through coursework, which includes a combination of practical tasks and written assignments or write-ups. This approach ensures learners are assessed both on their theoretical knowledge and their ability to apply skills in practical contexts.