Welding and Fabrication Apprenticeship
Introduction to the trade:
This apprenticeship is ideal for people who have an interest and aptitude for work in many of the industries in and around the Herefordshire area. A quick visit to the Yellow Pages or a drive around one of the many industrial estates will demonstrate the ‘Engineering’ industry in Hereford is thriving. As a welder fabricator your role may involve sheet-metal work, plate-metal work, structural steel work, pipe-work or anything in between. Problem solving and preparing quotes for customers, before commencing work and carrying out the repairs, may also form part of your job.
The welder fabricator uses a variety of methods to produce a product for the customer. At one end of the spectrum is detailed drawing, which will cover all aspects of a build, at the other end is a sketch of the end product, produced by the customer. It is the welder’s job to be able to interpret both and produce the product that the customer requires.
Apprenticeships are a well respected and recommended route into this sector. Read on to find out more...
What qualifications will I gain?
Intermediate Apprenticeship (Level 2)
- Diploma in Fabrication and Welding Engineering - this is the competency part of the qualification and essential for you to achieve the full apprenticeship. This part shows that you are competent in performing the skill, trade or occupation your apprenticeship requires
- BTEC Extended Certificate in Engineering - to show that you have the necessary technical skills, knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts as well as knowledge and understanding of the relevant market and industry
- Functional Skills - providing you will a good level of English and maths. Level 1 English and Level 1 maths
How will I be trained?
Apprenticeships are designed with the help of employers in the industry, so they offer a structured programme that takes you through the skills you need to do a job well. There are targets and checks to make sure that your employer is supporting you and you are making progress.
As an employee you will be in employment for 5 days a week (at least 30 hours per week) and your employer will release you for one day to attend college - which is also PAID. As such, most of the training takes place on-the-job; the rest takes place at HCT (as day release). All the things you study at college during this time will be useful in your job and help you to succeed in your future career.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment will take place through practical training at college and work and via theory through a portfolio of evidence. Work-based assessments are also carried out.
What are the entry requirements?
GCSE grade A-C in maths, English, science and IT are desirable although not essential, in order to cope with the complexities of the course. You need practical skills and should be able to demonstrate a keen interest in welding and fabrication. Students must be in full time employment with the welding and fabrication industry.
Competition for places with employers can be fierce, so you will need to show that you are committed, and aware of your responsibilities to both yourself and the company who would employ you. You also need to be happy to work as both part of a team and individually, and be able to use your own initiative.
Key Facts
Campus: Hereford
Minimum Age: 16
Duration: An Intermediate Apprenticeship will take 2 years
Typical Employment:
Opportunities are varied and include working for construction companies, or agricultural engineering workshops with roles such as pipe fabrication, steel erection, sheet-metal work, etc.
Further Study:
Level 3 Welding and Fabrication
Contact: 0800 389 9805
busdev@hct.ac.uk
