Metal Fabricator - Advanced Apprenticeship

Knowledge

By the end of their apprenticeship, your apprentice should understand:

• The importance of following health, safety, environmental and organisational regulations, and the consequences of non-compliance.
• Mathematical, scientific and technical principles used in engineering, including calculations, symbols, and graphical representations.
• The structure, properties, and behaviours of different metals, and how they react to processes such as heating and cooling.
• How to carry out marking out, cutting, shaping, forming, assembling and finishing using approved processes, tools and equipment.
• The principles and safe use of joining techniques, including both manual and mechanised welding methods, testing procedures and the use of consumables.
• How to carry out inspection and measurement techniques to check quality, accuracy and compliance with specifications.
• The purpose and interaction of different roles within a fabrication environment and how to follow and interpret technical drawings and documentation.
• Common problems encountered in fabrication and how to use approved methods to diagnose and address them effectively.

Skills

Your apprentice will learn how to:

• Work in line with health, safety, and environmental procedures and maintain a safe and clean working environment.
• Read and understand technical instructions, drawings and specifications, and plan work accordingly.
• Use correct tools and techniques to mark out, cut, form and assemble components to required standards.
• Prepare and carry out joining activities such as welding, following correct procedures and using appropriate equipment and consumables.
• Conduct checks and inspections to ensure work meets quality, dimensional and technical standards.
• Identify and resolve fabrication problems within their level of responsibility and escalate when needed.
• Complete all relevant documentation accurately and in a timely manner throughout the work process.
• Restore the work area on completion and ensure tools, equipment and materials are returned and stored appropriately.

Behaviours

Your apprentice should be able to demonstrate:

• A responsible and motivated approach to managing their own safety, workload and time, even when working under pressure.
• The ability to work well with others, support teammates, and recognise how their actions affect people and outcomes.
• Clear and respectful communication, both verbal and written, while listening to feedback and contributing positively to discussions.
• Attention to detail and a logical, methodical approach to problem solving and improving work quality and efficiency.
• A willingness to learn and improve by reflecting on performance and taking on board feedback and advice.
• A respectful, professional attitude that contributes to a positive working environment and strong team relationships.
• Flexibility in adapting to new situations, changing work environments or evolving technologies.
• An awareness of risk and a commitment to maintaining a safe and compliant workplace for themselves and others.

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. This is especially important for apprenticeships where off-the-job training needs to align with apprentices' on-the-job experience.