These programmes are designed for young people aged 16-19 (mature applicants are also very welcome) and aim to prepare students for future study and/or possible entry into apprenticeships and a career in mechanical or electrical engineering. They allow students to gain both practical and theory knowledge and experience within a range of mechanical or electrical engineering disciplines.

Courses consist of a number of core units along with several optional units allowing students some specialisation in the area of their choice.

Level one and level two course are designed to run for one-year full-time for up to three days a week, nominally 9am to 5pm. Students studying at level one will need to study to improve their GCSE passes to progress to level two engineering.

Level three courses generally run for two years full time, with a subsidiary qualification point during the first year. The timetable may include both group and individual tutorials, and Functional Skills at an appropriate level. The courses are delivered via practical workshops, investigative work and theory sessions, E-learning is also encouraged and students are expected to study independently and as part of a team.

Students will need to come prepared with writing materials (pen, pencil, rule, writing pad and a scientific calculator). For some students, textbooks will need to be purchased at an additional cost. For workshop sessions, protective equipment including steel toe safety shoes or boots and overalls are mandatory.