Level 3 Pre-Apprenticeship Academy: Enhanced Mechanical Manufacturing (VRQ Option)

The Enhanced Engineering Programme is a one-year programme, which has been developed to equip learners with the skills, knowledge and understanding they need to enter into a career in the Engineering industry. The programme is spread over 5 days of the week (30 hours). The main aims of the Enhanced Engineering Programme are to: • progress learners into employment upon completion of the programme; • progress learners onto a full apprenticeship in a craft occupation in the Engineering industry. As part of the Enhanced Engineering Programme there will be a work placement within an engineering environment. This will likely take place during half term holidays and arrangements for the placement will be made by the college.


The VRQ (Vocationally Related Qualification) focusses on the practical aspects of Engineering. You will learn by completing advanced practical projects and assessments that are based on realistic workplace situations that have been identified in order to operate effectively job roles within the Engineering Sector. All full-time learners will be expected to attend skills sessions as well as their chosen vocational course. You will also be asked to attend tutorial sessions as part of your full-time course timetable.

What Will I Learn?

The VRQ route would follow the Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Engineering Technologies. This also includes both external and internal assessment methods but is a more practical course.


The VRQ units include: • Environment Health and Safety • Mechanical Principles • Engineering Mathematics • Computer Aided Design Techniques • Advanced Turning You will also complete the Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Performing Engineering Operations (PEO), which makes full use of our sector leading mechanical workshops. In the PEO you would study 6 units: • Complying with statutory regulations & organisational safety requirements • Working efficiently & effectively in Engineering • Using & communicating technical information • Producing components using hand fitting techniques • Preparing and using lathes for turning operations • Preparing and using milling machines

Entry Requirements

5 GCSE’s A*-C including Maths, English Language /Welsh (First Language) & Science or a Level 2 qualification with the appropriate selection and grades of units. Learners with a D grade in English language can be considered upon interview.


For progressing Coleg y Cymoedd learners you will need a pass in L2 Diploma in Engineering Technologies and a merit grade in Unit 35 Applied Mathematics. Individual circumstances may also be taken into account upon interview.

Assessment

Assessment methods within the VRQ qualification include an on-screen multiple-choice examination for the mandatory unit and a Centre marked practical and theory assessments for the optional units. The on-screen multiple-choice examination is set by EAL and marked by EAL. The internal assessment is set by EAL and marked by members of the delivery team at the Centre. With regards to the QPEO Level 2 qualification the assessment for each unit consists of 3 practical assessments and 1 underpinning knowledge booklet. The practical assessments are set by the college and marked by members of the delivery team in accordance to Awarding Body guidelines.

Career Progression

Having developed fundamental practical skills and a basic understanding of Mechanical Engineering concepts, employment opportunities exist as an apprenticeship in the field of Tool-making, Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering. You will also be encouraged to seek apprenticeships within the relevant industry.

Further Notes

If you are offered a place on this course, you’ll need to buy your own Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that’s suitable for the practical activities you’ll be doing.

You can talk about this in more detail during your interview with a member of staff.

Financial help may be available, depending on your personal circumstances.

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Course Details
Level:Level 3
Mode:Full Time
Start Date:01/09/2026
Location:Rhondda
Course Code:04F313RB
Fees
FT Registration Fee: £15

Please note: Fees are payable for each year of study.

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