Draughtsperson Apprenticeship | Alliance Learning

What does a Level 3 Engineering Design and Draughtsperson Apprentice do?

Engineering design and draughtspersons produce designs and drawings for structures, piping, electrical systems, control and instrumentation systems and mechanical components used in industrial and commercial construction. Typically, employees work in a wide range of industries of national importance including power and water infrastructure, petrochemical, oil and gas, nuclear, food and drink processing.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to contribute to the preparation of design solutions and produce designs, drawings or models for structures, piping, electrical systems, control and instrumentation systems or mechanical components. They must understand technical models, drawings and specifications and be able to create their own. They will identify factors likely to affect design decisions, produce Computer Aided Design (CAD) models and engineering drawings and be able to communicate design information to internal and external parties.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with a range of internal and external stakeholders. They are usually based at office locations within project design teams and occasionally work at on-site locations. They are required to understand on-site hazards and health, safety and environmental requirements.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for contributing to the design of engineering components, structures and systems. They will typically report to an engineering design manager for supervision, greater levels of technical guidance and support, review approvals and sign-off. In their daily work, an employee in this occupation typically interacts with line managers/supervisors; depending on the size of the employer and nature of the work they may work as part of a team or independently.

What are the entry requirements?

Candidates must be aged 16 or over and should have:
- Practical abilities and the desire to work with your hands, as well as on computer aided design systems
- High motivation and are keen to work in the engineering design environment
- The ability to follow instructions and diagrams
- The ability to work accurately and a good eye for detail
- Good communication and problem solving abilities
- Good numeracy and literacy abilities to work with data
- The ability to work on your own initiative, but also be a good team worker

What is the duration of the course?

The Level 3 Design and Draughtsperson apprenticeship takes approximately 42 months to complete. Apprentices attend Alliance Learning once a week on a day release.

How can I progress in Engineering Design?

This standard has been designed to meet the professional standards of the Engineering Council for registration as an Engineering Technician (EngTech) in partnership with the appropriate institutions as shown below:
- Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) (for piping and mechanical)
- Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE)
- Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) (for electrical and mechanical)
- Institution of Engineering Designers (IED)

Professional registration is subject to candidates successfully completing this apprenticeship and undergoing professional review.

Apprentices may also wish to progress onto a higher-level qualification, such as a Higher National Certificate in Construction Management for England (Construction Design and Build Technician).

What Qualifications will I gain?

This qualification provides a foundation in engineering machining operations and techniques, as well as extensive theoretical and practical experience in this occupational area. On completion, you will be of fully-skilled status.

1. EAL Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Knowledge): This is the higher-level technical knowledge that you will be required to study towards and achieve. This is mainly delivered in a classroom to ensure a high level of technical ability and understanding and will be assessed through a mixture of practical assessments or exams.

2. End Point Assessment:
As part of the End-Point Assessment (EPA), you will undertake a knowledge test to ensure you have developed an understanding of the key principles and processes. In addition, an external assessor will be arranged by your employer to review all evidence, conduct a full observation and hold an interview with you to determine your ability in the role and ensure that the 3 1/2 years training has developed you into a competent and skilful design engineer. The final grading based on all assessments and evidence provided will be scored on a Pass, Merit or Distinction basis.

3. Functional Skills in English and Maths Level 2:
Functional Skills are qualifications in Maths and English that equip learners with the practical skills needed to learn, live and work successfully. This will only be required if you haven’t already attained this level through GCSE.

How do I apply?