Summary
This course is now full for September 2026. Applications are currently being accepted for September 2027.
The Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Aerospace Engineering is a two-year, full-time programme designed to provide learners with the specialist knowledge, practical competencies, and professional behaviours required for a career in the dynamic aerospace sector. In Year 1, students complete the Certificate, which lays the essential groundwork for the full Extended Diploma delivered in Year 2.
This programme is ideal for school leavers and those progressing from a Level 2 qualification who are interested in pursuing careers in aerospace design, maintenance, manufacturing, or systems engineering. It also provides a solid foundation for those aiming to progress into higher education, aerospace apprenticeships, or employment in the aviation and defence industries.
Delivered through coursework-based assignments and hands-on projects, the programme supports continuous development and applied learning—without the pressure of formal written exams. Students engage with real-world aerospace engineering challenges and gain experience in areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion systems, materials science, and avionics.
Aligned closely with aerospace apprenticeship standards, this course ensures learners can transition smoothly into industry-based training without repeating content, making it a highly effective route into employment.
Programme Structure:
- Year 1: BTEC Certificate in Aerospace Engineering
- Year 2: Progression to BTEC Extended Diploma in AME - Aerospace Engineering (This course)
Entry Requirements
4 GCSEs grade 4 or above including English or maths grade 4 or above OR Level 2 vocational qualification in relevant subject and English or Maths grade 4 or above (Students can re-sit English or Maths GCSE alongside this course)
Plus
- A successful discussion with a tutor
- The ability to study independently
- A genuine interest in the subject
- Good communication skills
- Hardworking approach towards the industry
Next course dates
| Start date | Location | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
02 Sep 2026
|
Bispham Campus
|
2 Years
|
Where can this subject lead?
Career progression
The Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Aerospace Engineering is a highly regarded qualification that prepares students for a wide range of technical and professional roles within the aerospace and aviation industries. Whether learners aim to enter the workforce, pursue a higher-level apprenticeship, or progress into university-level study, this course provides a strong and relevant foundation for future success.
This course is ideal for learners who:
- Aspire to become aerospace engineers, technicians, or specialists
- Plan to progress into aerospace or engineering apprenticeships at Level 4 or higher
- Intend to pursue higher education in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering
- Want to develop industry-relevant skills for employment in aerospace manufacturing, design, or maintenance
Potential Career Pathways:
- Aerospace Engineering Technician
- Aircraft Maintenance Technician
- Avionics Specialist
- CAD Technician or Aerospace Design Engineer
- Propulsion Systems Engineer
- Quality Assurance or Airworthiness Technician
- Composites Manufacturing Specialist
- Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Technician
Industries You Could Work In:
- Aerospace and Aviation (Commercial and Defence)
- Satellite and Space Systems
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Technologies
- Advanced Manufacturing and Aero structures
- Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Services
- Research and Development in Aerospace Systems
Next steps at B&FC
Having successfully completed the Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Aerospace Engineering, students can progress to different higher education programmes at Blackpool and The Fylde College, including HNCs and BEng degrees in Aerospace Engineering as well as related disciplines such as Mechanical, Electrical, Robotics, and Manufacturing Engineering.
These qualifications provide opportunities for further specialisation in areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion, and aerospace materials, enabling progression into highly skilled roles within the aerospace sectors.
Other study options
For learners who prefer to earn while they learn, completing the Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Aerospace Engineering also provides a strong foundation for progression into a Higher or Degree Apprenticeship within the aerospace and wider engineering sectors.
Employment Opportunities
Students finishing the Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Aerospace Engineering will be equipped with the technical skills, practical experience, and industry knowledge to begin careers in a variety of entry-level and technician roles within the aerospace and aviation sectors, as well as related engineering fields.
Some potential job titles include:
Aerospace Engineering Technician | Aircraft Maintenance Technician | Avionics Technician |Assembly and Fitting Technician (Aerospace Components) | Composite Materials Technician | CAD Technician (Aerospace Design)
Key information
Qualification obtained
BTEC Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Technical Knowledge)Fees and funding
Courses for learners who are 16-18 years old at the start of their course and resident in the UK are fully funded. You may also be entitled to further financial help to support your studies depending on your personal circumstances. For more details of these, please visit our page on Finance Support for School Leavers.
If you are not a UK resident, we will confirm whether funding is available when we process your application. If not, you may be liable for course fees.
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 around £15.
All other personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided by the College.
All tools and equipment required for practical sessions will be supplied, and you will have access to computers and all necessary software within College facilities.
You are expected to bring your own pen, pencil, calculator, basic drawing equipment, and a notepad for theory and workshop sessions.
Please note: A small additional fee may be required to cover the cost of educational tours and site visits, where applicable.
What will I learn?
The Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Aerospace Engineering equips you with the technical knowledge, practical skills, and professional behaviours essential for success in the aerospace and aviation industries.
Building on the foundation delivered in Year 1 (Certificate in Aerospace Engineering), the second year of the programme introduces advanced and specialised units that focus on technologies, principles, and materials commonly used in modern aerospace applications.
You will learn how to:
- Solve aerospace-related engineering problems using advanced mathematics
- Understand and apply the properties of materials used in aircraft and aerospace components
- Select and program PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) used in aerospace manufacturing and automated testing systems
- Apply advanced electrical and mechanical principles to aerospace systems and equipment
- Explore the use of robotics and automation in aerospace assembly and maintenance
- Use mechanical measurement and inspection techniques for precision and quality control
- Investigate advanced composite materials used in aircraft structures and plan manufacturing processes accordingly
- Develop and present aerospace engineering solutions through structured design projects
Units Covered in Year 2 Include:
- Further Engineering Mathematics
Expands on core mathematical techniques to solve more advanced engineering problems relevant to the aerospace sector. - Helicopter Gas Turbine Engines, Transmission, Rotors and Structures
Covers the structure and operation of helicopter engines, rotor systems, and transmission components. - Aircraft Flight Principles and Practice
Explores the science of flight, including aerodynamics, forces, flight dynamics, and aircraft performance. - Airframe Construction and Repair
Focuses on airframe structures, materials, and methods used in inspection, maintenance, and repair. - Airframe Mechanical Systems
Examines key mechanical systems such as flight controls, hydraulics, pneumatics, and landing gear. - Engineering Design
Introduces the design process, including research, concept development, CAD modelling, and project work. - Advanced Composite Materials and Manufacturing
Investigates modern composite materials used in aircraft and their manufacturing, testing, and repair processes. - Aircraft Gas Turbine Engines
Provides a detailed understanding of fixed-wing gas turbine engines, their operation, and maintenance procedures. - Aircraft Workshop Methods and Practice
Develops hands-on skills in using tools, following maintenance procedures, and working safely in an aircraft workshop environment.
Essential skills: English and Maths
All school leavers at B&FC are encouraged to continue developing their English and maths skills as higher ability in both these subjects is linked to long-term career success and increased earning potential - irrespective of how well you performed at GCSE. If, however, you achieve a GCSE Grade 3 or less in either subject, you will also have the opportunity to work towards re-sitting these to enhance your paper-based qualifications. This won’t delay your career journey because you will be undertaking this programme of study at the same time as your chosen subject.
Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers
An industry placement is a required element of this course and typically begins once you’ve gained a solid understanding of safe working practices.
Whilst you are encouraged to arrange your own placement, the college will provide support to help you find one that aligns with your interests and offers valuable experience.
You will also have the chance to take part in field trips and hear from guest speakers working in the industry, giving you deeper insight into the engineering world.
How will I learn?
You will be taught through a combination of classroom-based instruction, hands-on practical activities, real-world engineering projects, and oral presentations. The programme does not include formal written examinations; instead, assessment is carried out through coursework, practical tasks, written assignments, and oral presentations. You will have opportunities to work independently as well as collaboratively in teams, gaining both technical knowledge and the workplace skills required for a successful career in engineering.
A wide range of teaching methods will be used to accommodate different learning styles and to support the development of both theoretical understanding and practical expertise. These methods include:
- Classroom-based sessions to introduce and explore core engineering principles
- Hands-on workshop activities to develop practical skills and technical competence
- Collaborative group work to foster teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities
- Independent study supported by structured tasks and guided research
- Demonstrations and practical assessments that reinforce learning through real-world application
- Guest speaker sessions featuring industry professionals who provide insight into current practices and career pathways
- One-to-one tutorials and regular progress reviews to monitor achievement and set personalised learning targets
This blended approach ensures learners are fully equipped for successful assessment outcomes and well-prepared for progression into employment, apprenticeships, or higher education.
Regular one-to-one sessions with your Progress Tutor will allow you to review your development and receive personalised guidance. The learning environment is structured and supportive, with clear target setting and progress reviews designed to help you stay focused and achieve your full potential.
Expert tutors
All tutors involved in the delivery of courses and apprenticeships within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver.
Our recruitment process ensures that tutors delivering a given programme are suitably qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and a familiarity with professional practice. The aim of this is to enrich students’ learning experience, giving them an insight into what working in the industry is really like.
How will I be assessed?
Each module will be assessed through one or two assignments, which may include a combination of:
- Practical workshop tasks
- Project-based assignments
- Research and written reports
- Presentations or demonstrations of applied knowledge