Engineering

Exam Board:

NCFE

What will I study on the course:

You will gain a practical introduction to engineering principles, processes, and real-world applications. Key components include:

• Exploring Engineering Sectors and Design Applications – Understanding different engineering sectors (e.g., mechanical, electrical, aerospace), how products are designed and engineered, and factors influencing design choices.
• Producing Engineering Products – Hands-on practical skills in manufacturing engineering components safely, using tools, equipment, and techniques (e.g., marking out, machining, assembly).
• Solving Engineering Problems – Applying mathematical and scientific principles to solve engineering problems, including calculations, interpreting drawings/technical data, and using problem-solving methods. The course combines theory with substantial practical work in a workshop setting, developing skills in design, making, and problem-solving while emphasising health & safety, sustainability, and modern engineering technologies.

How is the course assessed:

A mix of internal and external assessment (graded Pass, Merit, Distinction, Distinction* at Level 2, or Level 1 equivalents; no traditional GCSE tiers):

• Component 1: Exploring Engineering Sectors and Design Applications – Internally assessed (coursework/portfolio), 30% – Research and exploration of engineering sectors and design.
• Component 2: Producing Engineering Products – Internally assessed (practical tasks), 30% – Hands-on manufacturing of engineered products.
• Component 3: Solving Engineering Problems – Externally set and marked (synoptic exam or assignment), 40% – Problem-solving tasks involving calculations, drawings, and engineering principles. Total guided learning hours: 120. The qualification is linear, with external assessment under supervised conditions.

Post-16 courses:

Level 3 BTEC National in Engineering (equivalent to A Levels), T Levels in Engineering & Manufacturing (e.g., Mechanical, Electrical), apprenticeships (e.g., engineering technician, manufacturing operative), or A Levels in Physics, Maths, or Product Design. A good grade supports progression to college, sixth form, or higher education in engineering-related fields.

Careers:

Mechanical engineer, electrical engineer, aerospace technician, manufacturing operative, welder/fabricator, CAD technician, maintenance engineer, automotive technician, robotics specialist, or roles in advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, and construction. The engineering sector offers high-demand apprenticeships and jobs with excellent earning potential in the UK.

Specific advantages:

This vocational course is highly practical, providing extensive hands-on experience in a dedicated engineering environment, which many students prefer over theory-heavy subjects. It builds real employable skills early (e.g., safe use of tools, technical drawing, problem-solving), suits those who enjoy making and fixing things, and offers a clear route into the industry. At Discovery Academy, the focus on creating state-of-the-art facilities and benchmarking vocational qualifications makes it engaging and directly relevant to future careers.

How useful it is in the real world:

Extremely useful – engineering underpins virtually every aspect of modern life, from infrastructure and transport to technology and energy. The UK faces ongoing skills shortages in engineering, creating strong demand for qualified workers in well-paid, stable jobs. The course equips you with practical, transferable skills like precision work, technical analysis, teamwork, and safety awareness, which are directly applicable to apprenticeships, employment, or further training. It promotes understanding of sustainability and innovation in engineering, fosters logical thinking and creativity, and opens doors to rewarding careers in a vital sector essential for economic growth and everyday advancements.