This programme is aimed at school leavers who do not meet the entry requirements for Level 2/3 programmes within the School of Engineering, but who seek entry into these programmes. Successful completion of the Level 1 programme, together with a positive endorsement from tutors, will allow learners to progress to Level 2 programmes after one year.
Prospective learners should have, at minimum, 3 GCSEs at Grade 2 or
above.
The Level 1 programme consists of a Pearson BTEC Level 1 Introductory Diploma in Engineering and a mandatory tutorial session. Learners without a GCSE Grade 4 (or equivalent) in English and/or Maths will be required to complete a suitable qualification in these areas alongside their engineering course.
The Pearson BTEC Level 1 Introductory Diploma has been designed to maximise opportunities for learners to progress by focusing on the development of transferable and sector-related skills. It is also unique in the broadness of its scope in terms of the areas of the engineering world it covers.
Learners may complete a number of sector-based units covering:
- mechanical fitting & manufacture
- mechanical maintenance
- computer-aided design
- machining
Not only are the units designed to give learners an insight into each sector, they also focus on developing transferable skills such as self-evaluation & improvement, inspection of manufactured components, self-management, safe working, presentation & communication skills, and customer interaction skills. Alongside these sector-based units are a number of soft-skills units covering organsation, personal progression, teamwork and research skills.
The mandatory tutorial session will allow learners to interact with their assigned tutor for progress and development, as well as engage with the Hartlepool College of Further Education tutorial programme.
A variety of teaching strategies will be employed in delivering this qualification, dependent upon the unit content. This may include lectures, seminars, practical work, simulated work environments and group activities.
Teaching and learning will take place in a range of specialist facilities, laboratories and classrooms.
The programme is delivered on a full-time basis; classes will be taught Monday to Friday.
Assessment is 100% coursework and at unit-level. Each unit will have one or two pieces of assessed work, which will be criterion-referenced and graded at either Pass, Merit or Distinction. Assessed work must be submitted by a strict deadline.
The overall qualification will be graded between a P (pass) and D (distinction), based on the combination of the individual unit outcomes. Learners not meeting the minimum threshold for a P grade will receive a U (unclassified) grade.
Upon successful completion of the programme of study, together with the endorsement of the course team, learners will hold a qualification that will enable them to progress to Level 2 study and beyond.
Suitable progression opportunities within the School of Engineering include:
- Level 2 Mechanical/Electrical Engineering (Pearson BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate in Engineering)
- Level 2 Fabrication & Welding (City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Engineering (Fabrication & Welding)
- Level 2 Automotive Engineering (City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles)
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided to learners for use in the workshop.
