Higher Level Apprenticeship in Advanced Technician Mechanical & Manufacturing (General)

Studying General Engineering at Level 4 offers a broad and versatile foundation in engineering principles, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enter the engineering field or advance their careers.  This program provides a comprehensive understanding of various engineering disciplines, with a slant towards manufacturing automation.  It equips students with practical skills and theoretical knowledge that are highly valued by employers, enhancing employability and opening up diverse career opportunities.  Additionally, it serves as a stepping stone for further education, such as progressing to a Level 5 HND or a bachelor’s degree in Engineering.  

General Entry Requirements  

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme. Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application.  You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment.  Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.   

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills- Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills- Application of Number, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• Passes in 4 different subjects (can include English Language and Mathematics and as above), with 1 at GCE Advanced (A) level (grades A-E), and 3 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.  

Course Entry Requirements

A minimum of 48 UCAS Tariff points including:

• GCE A level (A2): Typical grade profile DD [to include 1 from Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Technology & Design, Design & Technology, Engineering, Electronics or Double Award Science/Applied Science.]

OR

• Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Engineering with overall award profile MP

OR

• Access to HE Diploma (NI): 45% overall in an Engineering Access course and [45% in level 2 Access Mathematics.

OR

• An equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.  

Employment Requirements

You will need to be employed in an engineering role in a SERC approved company on or before the start date for the programme.

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL). Further details on APL can be found in the HE Admissions Process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.    

International Students English Language Requirements

International applicants, from Non-Native English-speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)
• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)
• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test

For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk

Higher Level Apprenticeship Eligibility

To be eligible for a Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA), in addition to the entry requirements identified above, you need to:

• be employed or be about to take up permanent paid employment as an apprentice, or be an existing employee moving to a new job role, allowing you to gain appropriate industrial experience, with a Northern Ireland based company (does not include public sector) who is willing to support you as an HLA candidate,
• work a minimum of 21 hours per week (which includes time for ‘off-the-job’ training),
• be the minimum school leaving age in Northern Ireland.

Assessment is scheduled throughout the course using a combination of assignments and practical work/observations.

Each unit is graded individually with an overall single final grade (Pass, Merit, or Distinction) awarded at the end of the course.

Students are assessed using a range of methods. These may include:

Coursework: You will be asked to complete research and/or report on your development activities in a formal report.

Presentations: Students will present their findings to peers with some external entities involved where appropriate.

Practical: You may be asked to demonstrate your skills by completing assigned tasks/activities.

This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study. Oral, written or online feedback will be provided during the course to help improve and monitor performance.

Students that successfully complete the HN programme traditionally progress to one of the following areas:

Level 5 HND Top Up Programme Students that wish to further their studies may undertake a Level 5 HND Engineering qualification at SERC.

Related Degree Programmes Students that wish to further their studies may undertake a related Level 6 qualification, at a university.

Employment  This Higher National programme has been designed to equip students with the knowledge required to thrive in the changing world of work.

A Level 4 HN in General Engineering can open doors to various career opportunities, including roles such as:

Engineering Technician: Working on the design, development, and maintenance of engineering systems

Quality Technician: Ensuring products meet quality standards and managing quality control processes

Maintenance Technician: Overseeing maintenance operations and ensuring machinery and equipment are in optimal working condition Manufacturing Technician: Involved in the production process, ensuring efficient and effective manufacturing operations.

These roles leverage the technical skills and knowledge gained from the HNC program, providing a solid foundation for a successful engineering career.

This course will equip you with formal qualifications which will improve your job opportunities and employability skills in the engineering sector. 

You will also gain a range of soft skills regarded as highly desirable by employers and you will receive training on a wide range of industry standard equipment and software.

Technical Skills

• CAD skills (likely Solidworks)
• Practical skills (Digital circuits, PLCs, Mechatronics)
• Design Tools and Techniques
• Project Management Skills
• Employability Skills
• Critical Thinking
• Emotional Intelligence
• Entrepreneurship
• Leadership
• Reflective Practice
• Decision Making
• Team working