Advanced Manufacturing Engineering - Level 3

Course Code: EC1FE0004

16-18

Next course dates

Start Date	Location	Duration
02/09/2026	Bispham Campus	2 Years	Apply

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Course Overview

The Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering is a two-year, full-time programme designed to equip learners with the technical knowledge, practical skills, and professional behaviours required for a career in modern engineering. In Year 1, students complete the Certificate, which forms the foundation of the full Extended Diploma delivered in Year 2.

Ideal for school leavers and those progressing from a Level 2 qualification, this programme prepares students for higher education, apprenticeships, or direct entry into employment across a range of engineering sectors. The course is delivered through coursework-based assignments, avoiding formal written exams and supporting consistent progress and applied learning.

This Extended Diploma is also closely aligned with engineering apprenticeship standards, ensuring a smooth transition for learners who choose to move into an apprenticeship after completing the course without duplicating content or effort.

Programme Structure:

Year 1: BTEC Certificate in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering
Year 2: Progression to BTEC Extended Diploma (this course)

Entry Requirements

You must have achieved the following:

Successful completion of Year 1 (Certificate in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering)
and/or
A minimum of four GCSEs at grade 4 C) or above, which must include:
- Mathematics (grade 4 or above)
- Science (grade 4 or above)
- English at a minimum of grade 3, with the expectation that you will resit English GCSE alongside the main programme

These requirements ensure you are prepared for the technical demands of the course while continuing to meet essential academic standards..

All 16-18 year old applicants will be invited to attend an interview to meet a tutor and ask any questions they may have about the course.

Essential Skills – English and Maths

If you achieve a grade 3 in GCSE Maths or English you will have to work towards re-sitting these subjects as part of your main study programme. At B&FC, this won’t delay your career journey because you’re working towards these subjects at the same time as your chosen subject.

Career Options and Progression

The Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering is a widely recognised qualification that opens multiple career routes in the engineering and manufacturing sectors. Whether students choose to enter the workforce directly, pursue a higher-level apprenticeship, or continue into university-level study, this course lays a strong foundation for future success.

This course is ideal for learners who:

Aspire to become qualified engineers or technicians
Plan to progress into engineering apprenticeships at Level 4 or higher
Want to move on to higher education in fields such as Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace Engineering
Seek employment in skilled technical roles across modern industry

Potential Career Pathways:

Engineering Technician (Mechanical, Electrical, or Multi-skilled)
Manufacturing/Production Engineer
Maintenance Technician
CAD Technician or Design Engineer
Welding/Fabrication Specialist
Quality Control or Process Engineer
Toolmaker or CNC Machinist
Automation and Robotics Technician

Industries You Could Work In:

Aerospace and Aviation
Renewable Energy and Utilities
Advanced Manufacturing and Automation
Electronics and Telecommunications
Automotive and Motorsport

Teaching and Learning Methods

A wide range of teaching methods will be used to accommodate different learning styles and to support the development of both theoretical understanding and practical expertise. These methods include:

Classroom-based sessions to introduce and explore core engineering principles
Hands-on workshop activities to develop practical skills and technical competence
Collaborative group work to foster teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities
Independent study supported by structured tasks and guided research
Demonstrations and practical assessments that reinforce learning through real-world application
Guest speaker sessions featuring industry professionals who provide insight into current practices and career pathways
One-to-one tutorials and regular progress reviews to monitor achievement and set personalised learning targets

This blended approach ensures learners are fully equipped for successful assessment outcomes and well-prepared for progression into employment, apprenticeships, or higher education.

Industry Placement and Field Trips

Other Costs and Equipment Needed

You will need to provide your own safety boots, safety goggles, and overalls/boiler suit for practical activities. A typical pair of safety boots should cost no more than £12, and a pair of overalls around £15.
All other personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided by the College.

All tools and equipment required for practical sessions will be supplied, and you will have access to computers and all necessary software within College facilities.

You are expected to bring your own pen, pencil, calculator, basic drawing equipment, and a notepad for theory and workshop sessions.

Please note: A small additional fee may be required to cover the cost of educational tours and site visits, where applicable.

Expert Tutors

All staff involved in the delivery of further education courses within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver. The approval process ensures that staff delivering a given programme are appropriately qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice.