Engineering Fitter Apprenticeship – Level 3

This apprenticeship is designed to produce skilled engineering fitters capable of working in manufacturing and process sectors. Apprentices will learn to produce complex, high-value, low-volume components or assemblies, such as turbines, cranes and gearboxes.

Key Benefits for Employers:

• Skilled Workforce: apprentices gain hands-on experience and technical knowledge, ensuring they can meet industry standards and contribute effectively from day one.
• Versatile Skills: training covers mechanical, electrical, electronic, control systems, pipe fitting and instrumentation, making apprentices adaptable to various roles.
• Quality and Safety: apprentices are trained to adhere to strict quality, health, safety and environmental regulations, reducing risks and improving workplace standards.
• Continuous Improvement: apprentices learn and apply continuous improvement techniques, such as 5S and kaizen, enhancing productivity and efficiency.
• Professional Development: the programme aligns with IET standards for Eng Tech, ensuring apprentices are recognised professionals in their field.

The apprenticeship includes a comprehensive End Point Assessment (EPA) to ensure apprentices are fully prepared for their roles. The EPA consists of a knowledge test, practical observation, professional discussion and a portfolio of evidence.

GCSEs in Maths and English grades 4-9 (C or above) or Level 2 Maths and English Functional Skills.

Apprentices will be required to attend all off-the-job training during term time to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours of the standard and complete their mandatory qualification. Employers will actively be involved in the 12-week review process and will support target setting to develop the apprentice. Employers will also provide support in preparing the apprentice for their End Point Assessment (EPA).

1. Personal Responsibility and Resilience:
   • Demonstrates a health and safety-first attitude.
   • Works diligently with minimal supervision.
   • Manages time and workload effectively.
   • Stays motivated and committed when facing challenges.
2. Teamwork:
   • Integrates well with the team.
   • Supports colleagues and considers the impact of actions on others.
   • Works effectively to complete tasks.
3. Effective Communication:
   • Communicates openly and honestly.
   • Uses appropriate methods for clear communication.
   • Listens well and maintains a positive, respectful attitude.
   • Adjusts approach to consider equality and diversity.
4. Quality and Problem Solving:
   • Follows instructions and guidance accurately.
   • Pays attention to detail.
   • Uses a logical approach to problem-solving.
   • Seeks opportunities to improve quality, speed and efficiency.
5. Continuous Personal Development:
   • Reflects on skills, knowledge and behaviours.
   • Seeks opportunities for development.
   • Adapts to different situations, environments or technologies.
   • Positively accepts feedback and advice.

These behaviours ensure apprentices are well-rounded, responsible and effective in their roles.

Level 3 Engineering Fitter Apprenticeship

The apprentice will be assessed using a variety of assessment methods. This will include observations, completing job write-ups, question and answers and witness testimonies from the employer. The apprentice will build a portfolio of work-based evidence that they will present for their End Point Assessment (EPA).

The End Point Assessment (EPA) for the Engineering Fitter apprenticeship consists of several key components designed to evaluate the apprentice’s skills, knowledge and behaviours:

1. Knowledge Test:
   • Multiple-choice questions covering the technical knowledge required for the role.
2. Practical Observation:
   • A hands-on assessment where the apprentice demonstrates their ability to complete specific tasks and use tools and equipment safely and effectively.
3. Professional Discussion:
   • An interview-style assessment where the apprentice discusses their work, experiences and understanding of the role with an assessor.
4. Portfolio of Evidence:
   • A collection of work completed during the apprenticeship, showcasing the apprentice’s skills, knowledge and development.

The apprentice will attend College on a day-release basis over three academic years depending on their prior skills and learning.

The apprentice will be required to come equipped with the following personal protective equipment (PPE): safety boots, safety glasses and company workwear/overalls.

They can consider advancing to the following programmes:

• Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician
• Level 6 Manufacturing Engineer

Fitters may typically have a mechanical, electrical, control system or instrumentation bias. The apprentice will learn to be proactive in finding solutions to problems and identifying areas for improving how the business operates. 

You may already have someone in your organisation – or someone who has come to you directly asking for an apprenticeship. However, if you don’t, we have a free recruitment service to help you hire the best candidate for your organisation from our talent pool and can provide external advertising through social media and the National Apprenticeship Service’s website.

If you are an employer and you would like to know more, please email businessenquiries@derby-college.ac.uk or call 01332 387421