Full Time Courses
Our full-time courses are designed for students looking to get the skills and knowledge they need to progress onto a career in the engineering or plumbing sector. Many students continue on to apprenticeships in the sector. You can find out more
about apprenticeships by clicking here.
Level 1 Engineering
On this programme you can get to try different aspects of Engineering to help you decide which direction you may want to follow as a career. This is perfect for those looking to study engineering alongside resitting their Maths/English GCSE courses.
Level 2 Engineering
Many of our students begin their studies at Level 2, working towards an NVQ qualification that allows them to continue on to Level 3 study either full time or through an apprenticeship. At Level 2 students choose from one of two pathways:
| Electrical and Mechanical
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Fabrication and Welding
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| The units studied will provide students with practical skills and knowledge of electrical wiring and testing, and mechanical maintenance techniques including fault finding and diagnosis. Students will work on electrical panels and mechanical equipment, developing the skills needed to complete wiring, overhaul and testing activities to the required standards. The will also acquire electrical-mechanical maintenance and hand skills. | The units studied will provide students with practical skills and knowledge of fabrication and welding. Students will work on fabrication and welding machines and learning engineering skills including sheet metal working, welding and plate-working. |
Entry requirements for these Level 2 courses are as follows:
- Four GCSEs at grade C or above (grade 9-4) including maths and/or English
- A satisfactory interview
- An initial assessment of Maths or English at a suitable level, where a grade C (grade 4) has not been achieved.
Level 3 Engineering
On completion, full-time students carry on to study one of our two-year Level 3 Diplomas as detailed below:
| Level 3 Fabrication and Welding | Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering (180 credits) |
| This course includes advanced skills in fabrication and welding, as well as theoretical modules about engineering techniques and mathematics and science principles.
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This course is equivalent to three A-Levels and is designed for students planning to progress to full-time university programmes. It encompasses a range of engineering disciplines including electrical, mechanical, maintenance and
computer aided design. Students work together on an engineering project (e.g. last year they helped Durham University Electric Motor Sport build a solar powered vehicle). They will also have opportunities to both work at and visit global
blue-chip engineering firms through our notable alumni group.
Compulsory units* include: ● Health & safety in the engineering workplace ● Communications for engineering technicians ● Engineering project ● Mathematics for engineering technicians ● Mechanical principles and applications ● Electrical and electronic principles * A range of optional units are also offered and can be tailored to suit student groups. |
Entry requirements for these Level 3 courses are as follows:
4 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A*- C) including maths and English or a Level 2 PEO qualification including maths and English at grades 9 to 4 (A*- C).
Progression into Higher Education (Level 4/5)
L3 students often progress on to higher education qualifications including an HNC or HND, Foundation Degree, Honours Degree or Higher Level Apprenticeship. Employment opportunities include jobs in engineering
industries such as engineering technician and skilled operator.
We also offer a Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician apprenticeship which allows students to study for either a L4 Higher National Certificate in Engineering or a L4 Higher National Certificate in Manufacturing Operations.
Level 2-3 Electrical Installation
Electrical installation is perfect for those looking to gain the skills and knowledge needed to establish a career as an electrician. Learners will get practical experience of the installation of wiring systems together with a knowledge of the relevant theories of electrical installation.
| Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installation (QCF) (1 year) | Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installation (1 year) |
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Our Diploma is perfect for those who want to work in the electrical industry in the future, as well as those wishing to acquire new knowledge and skills.
This qualification is a mix of practical workshop sessions and theory sessions. It is assessed through on-screen examinations, practical assessments and a theory assignment. The Level 2 Diploma covers the below mandatory topics:
Learners will also have the opportunity to utilise the IET On-Site Guide, the industry standard guide to electrical regulations published by the Institution of Engineering and Technology. Our course is perfect for those looking to progress on to an apprenticeship to continue to build their experience through industry recognised qualifications. |
Students who have studied the Level 2 Diploma in Electrical Installation can continue their studies at SWDT with our Level 3 Diploma.
The course covers electrical science principles, planning and design and electrical installation advanced craft skills. On successful completion of the course it will give students 32 UCAS points. The Level 3 Diploma covers the below mandatory topics:
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4 GCSEs at grades 3-2 (D - E) or equivalent, including maths and English, or a Level 1 qualification in a relevant subject area.
Level 1 - 3 Plumbing
We offer a range of plumbing courses at SWDT for students interested in getting into the sector. Like our other engineering courses, we offer full time and apprenticeship routes. Full-time courses are as follows:
| Level 1 Diploma in Plumbing Studies (1 year) | Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Heating (1 year) | Level 3 Diploma in Domestic Plumbing and Heating (1 year) |
| Students begin to develop the essential skills for work in the sector. They will learn about the installation, repair and maintenance of plumbing systems, above-ground drainage, pipework (copper, plastic and low carbon steel) and plumbing science. They will also study units on environmental and sustainability measures in domestic dwellings and site preparation in the industry. | Students advance their knowledge and become competent to industry standard in plumbing and heating techniques. They will understand the principles and installation of cold and hot water systems, central heating systems, domestic rainwater systems, and above ground drainage systems. They will also study general modules on safe working practices, communicating with others within building services and applying scientific principles to their work. | Students gain an advanced understanding of the principles of plumbing and heating as required by the National Occupational Standards. They will learn about the principles and requirements of environmental technology systems, complex cold water systems, domestic hot water systems, sanitation and drainage systems and domestic gas principles. Students will also develop their employability skills ready for employment or career progression within the sector. |
Entry requirements:
Level 1:
Minimum three GCSEs at grades 4-2, including maths and/or English, depending on the course requirements. Alternative qualifications will be considered.
Level 2:
Minimum four GCSEs at grades 9-4, including maths and/or English, is normally required.
Level 3:
Minimum four GCSEs at grades 9-4, including maths and/or English, is normally required, as well as a Level 2 in Plumbing and Heating.
