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LEVEL 3 METAL FABRICATOR

Location: Derby.

Duration: 33 months.

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Since starting my apprenticeship I have found everything very helpful and enjoyable. Learning all the techniques to welding and the science to theory. I have been given advice anytime I needed help. My tutors and apprenticeship leader have been top notch. I would highly recommend this apprenticeship for anyone wanting to do welding. My company have been so helpful and supportive for my learning. My time at Glapwell Contracting Services and my time at college with Jenny and Matt have been probably the best decision I made to start my learning and career. 

Entry requirements

Apprentices will be required to achieve level 3 English and level 4 maths prior to taking their End Point Assessment.

Assessment methods
  • Practical observation
  • Professional discussion with supporting portfolio
Progression

Upon successful completion, apprentices will be eligible for the following job roles or further studies:

  • Metal Fabricator
  • Assembler
  • Fabrication Manager
  • Coded Welding
  • Specialist Welding e.g. aerospace, underwater or electrical maintenance
  • Opportunities to progress within employment or to a higher level qualification or apprenticeship are available.

This occupation is found in the advanced manufacturing engineering and engineering construction sectors. The broad purpose of the occupation is to carry out metal fabrication work using rolled steel joists, columns, channels, steel plate and metal sheet etc. Work includes manufacturing bridges, oil rigs, ships, petro-chemical installations, cranes, platforms, aircraft, automotive and machinery parts, sheet metal enclosures, equipment supports, and anything that can be fabricated out of metal. Fabricators use a large range of metals including steel, aluminium and titanium at a range of thicknesses. The size and weight of the fabrications can range from components that can easily be picked up by hand, to massive structures that require several cranes to manipulate.

Skills you will learn during this apprenticeship

  • The importance of complying with statutory, quality, organisational and health and safety regulations.
  • Understand general engineering mathematical and scientific principles, methods, techniques, graphical expressions, symbols formulae and calculations.
  • The structure, properties and characteristics of common materials.
  • The tools and techniques available for cutting, shaping, assembling and finishing materials.
  • Inspection techniques that can be applied to check shape and dimensional accuracy.
  • Know the principles, procedures and testing of different joining techniques (mechanised or manual).
  • Identify and follow correct metal work instructions, specifications, drawing etc.
  • Cut and form metal for the production of fabricated products.
  • Produce and assemble metal products to required specification and quality requirements.
  • Identify and follow correct joining instructions, specifications, drawing etc.
  • Weld joints in accordance with approved welding procedures and quality requirements.

When I first started my welding apprenticeship I didn’t have a clue and I thought I was going to struggle with getting my head round a new career but with the help from my college tutors and my employer I very quickly became confident in my ability as a welder. I would fully recommend an apprenticeship to anyone looking at getting into the industry as you get hands on experience as well as on going support from college”

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with planners, supervisors, inspectors, designers, welders, pipe-fitters, fitters, machinists, riggers, steel erectors, stores personnel, painters and many others involved in manufacturing, production, maintenance and repair. An employee in this occupation will be responsible for the quality and accuracy of their own work whilst ensuring it conforms to a relevant specification such as an engineering drawing or an international standard. Fabricators are also responsible for the health, safety and environmental (HS&E) protection of themselves and others around them. This apprenticeship standard is suitable for school leavers, those wishing to progress in their career or build upon existing skills.

Qualifications gained

  • Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering
  • Functional Skills Level 2 in English (if required)

Delivery plan and apprentice progression

Throughout the apprenticeship, you are supported by a work-based tutor and employer mentor to ensure you are progressing at the right pace and developing the skills and knowledge expected. Every apprenticeship includes off-the-job training – equivalent to one day per week. This takes place during time normally spent at work but does not include the usual daily duties and responsibilities carried out as part of their normal role. It can consist of work and tasks ranging from projects, lectures and seminars to day release, blended learning and training to use specialist equipment. It can form part of regular weekly sessions or be combined for larger blocks of time, depending on the approach that works best for the employer.

Career progression routes

  • Metal Fabricator
  • Assembler
  • Fabrication Manager
  • Coded Welding
  • Specialist Welder (e.g. aerospace, underwater or electrical maintenance)

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