Skills Bootcamps in Engineering

You will develop your understanding of tolerances and gain hands-on experience using analogue measuring equipment, including:

• Micrometre
• Vernier height gauge
• Vernier calliper

You will also learn how to safely operate a range of industry-standard machine tools, including:

• Centre lathe
• Milling machine
• Drill press
• Power band saw
• Surface grinder

As part of the course, you will produce metal components to a tolerance of 0.1 mm or greater, including internal and external threads.

By the end of the Bootcamp, you will have a solid understanding of machining and bench fitting techniques, enabling you to improve your performance at work and apply your skills when designing components.

This Bootcamp is not an entry-level or introductory course. It is designed for adults aged 19+ who already have core engineering knowledge and are ready to further develop their practical machining and design skills.

To apply, you should:

• Hold a mechanical engineering qualification at Level 3 or above

• Be confident reading and interpreting technical drawings

If you have significant relevant industry experience but do not hold formal qualifications, your application may be considered on an individual basis.

To get the most from the course, you should also have:

• A good understanding of mathematics at Level 2
• Some prior machining experience (beneficial, but not essential)

Unaccredited Skills Bootcamps - Engineering, manufacturing, process and control - Level 2 equivalent

Successfully completing this Skills Bootcamp will support you to take the next step in your engineering career.

You will benefit from:

• A fast-track interview with an employer where there is a suitable opportunity
• The opportunity to progress within your current role, taking on more technical responsibility or specialising further
• The potential to secure a new role in engineering, particularly in areas where there is strong demand for skilled machinists and technicians

As this Bootcamp is designed for people who are already working in, or progressing within, engineering, many participants use it to:

• Strengthen their practical machining capability alongside design knowledge
• Improve confidence working to tighter tolerances and industry standards
• Support career progression into more advanced technical or design-focused roles

You may also choose to progress onto:

• Further technical training or higher-level qualifications
• A degree apprenticeship pathway, where prior learning may be recognised

Your progress will be assessed through the completion of practical tasks, including the production of engineered components to specified tolerances, working from technical drawings.

You will not be set formal home learning outside of your scheduled sessions. However, throughout the programme, you will be encouraged to develop your CV and prepare for job applications, ensuring you are ready to take advantage of opportunities as they arise.

The course does not involve work placement.

Learner cost: This Skills Bootcamp is fully funded, meaning there is no cost for eligible learners.

Employer cost: Employers who enrol existing staff onto the Bootcamp are required to contribute towards the cost of training:

• Large employers contribute 30%
• Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) contribute 10%

Time commitment: If you are employed, you may need time to study and attend sessions. This will depend on your working hours, employment status, and the flexibility of the course.