Skills Bootcamps are flexible training courses of up to 16 weeks, giving people the opportunity to build up sector-specific skills and fast-track to an interview with an employer.

This 10-week machining and bench fitting course is designed for engineers who wish to enhance their skills with basic machining techniques. The course covers topics such as hand and power tools, correct filing techniques, drill bit and cutter RPM for different materials, materials and properties.

Learners who enrol on the Skills Bootcamp should possess an engineering qualification at Level 3 or above.


  • Description

    The programme also includes learning technical drawing by hand, understanding of tolerances, and using measuring equipment like the Micrometre, Vernia height gauge and Vernia calliper, all analogue versions. Finally, you will learn how to operate machine tools such as centre lathe, milling machine, drill press, power band saw and surface grinder, and make components out of metal to a tolerance of 0.1mm or greater and internal and external threads.

    Upon completion of this Skills Bootcamp course, learners will have a solid understanding of machining and bench fitting techniques and will be able to apply this knowledge to improve their job performance.

  • Entry Requirements

    Skills Bootcamps are for adults aged 19+. Learners who enrol on the Skills Bootcamp should possess an engineering qualification at Level 3 or above. Learners with previous relevant work experience but no formal qualification will be considered on an individual basis.

    The ability to read technical drawings is needed. Any machining skills will be an advantage. Knowledge of mathematics at level 2 is essential.

  • Qualification

    There are no formal qualifications attached to this course.

  • Progression

    Successful completion of a Skills Bootcamp gives people the opportunity for a fast-track interview with an employer. Learners are expected to move into occupations within the engineering sector where there are varied roles available.

  • Assessment

    Your progress is assessed through completion of components made to tolerance from a technical drawing.

  • Home Study

    No home learning will be set. You will be encouraged to work on your CV and job applications during the course.

  • Work Placement

    The course does not involve work placement.

  • Fees and Additional Costs

    Learner Cost - Skills Bootcamps are fully funded and free courses for learners. Employer Cost - Employers who want to use Skills Bootcamps to train their existing employees contribute to the cost of training. Large employers contribute 30% of the cost, and small or medium employers (SMEs) contribute 10% of the cost. Existing employees may need time to study and attend classes depending on their working hours and status and the flexibility of the course.

Code Day Start End Times Fees*
SBCENGIN 242506 Friday Flexible Start 09:00 - 16:30 TBC

Enquire now

Code Day Start End Times Fees*
SBCENGIN 242507 Friday Flexible Start 09:00 - 16:30 TBC

Enquire now

* Terms and conditions apply. The fees stated on this website are for guidance purposes only and should be checked before enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, fees shown are for tuition only, over one academic year. Where a course is longer than one academic year, the fees stated are for the first year, and the cost of the second or subsequent years will be discussed at interview. For details of fee remission for students over 19 click here. If you think you may be entitled to a concession or fee remission, or you would like more information on the additional costs associated with your chosen course, please contact us on 01635 845000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..