The machining technician level 3 apprenticeship is a three-year program that prepares you for a career in the manufacturing industry. Upon completion of the apprenticeship, you will be able to produce complex and precision machined products using a variety of machines and tools.
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Entry requirements
Individual employers will set the recruitment and selection criteria for their Apprenticeships. In order to optimise success, candidates will typically have 4 GCSEs at Grade 4 or Grade C or equivalent, including mathematics, English and a Science.
What it takes:
Skills and knowledge You’ll need:
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- the ability to work well with your hands
- problem-solving skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others
- physical skills like movement, coordination and dexterity
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to work on your own
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
The end-point assessment (EPA) is a critical part of the apprenticeship, as it assesses the student’s competence against the knowledge, skills, and behaviors (KSBs) outlined in the occupational standard. The EPA is conducted by an independent assessor and consists of three parts:
- Practical demonstration with questions: The student will be required to demonstrate their machining skills by producing a component on a machine of their choice. The assessor will then ask questions about the student’s work.
- Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence: The student will be interviewed about their machining knowledge and experience. The assessor will also review the student’s portfolio of evidence, which should include examples of their work.
- Knowledge test: The student will complete a written test to assess their knowledge of machining theory and practice.
In order to pass the EPA, the student must achieve a pass grade in all three parts of the assessment. Students who pass the EPA will be awarded their machining technician apprenticeship certificate.
Progression after the apprenticeship is completed?
This qualification will allow learners to progress into employment enhancing the skills and knowledge that they have gained at Level 3, or to progress to a Higher-Level Apprenticeship or an HNC/HND in Engineering. Achievement of this qualification demonstrates to an employer that the Apprentice has the necessary technical skills and knowledge needed for a Machinist role.
Here are some tips for preparing for the machining technician level 3 EPA:
- Practice your machining skills: The best way to prepare for the practical demonstration is to practice your machining skills regularly. Make sure you are familiar with the type of machine you will be using for the assessment and that you are able to produce the required component to a high standard.
- Prepare a portfolio of evidence: Your portfolio of evidence should include examples of your work from different areas of the machining trade. Make sure to include evidence that demonstrates your skills in areas such as machine set-up, operation, and programming.
- Study for the knowledge test: The knowledge test will cover a range of machining topics, such as machining theory, machine tools, and manufacturing processes. Make sure to study for the test thoroughly and that you are familiar with all of the material that is likely to be covered.
If you are preparing for the machining technician level 3 EPA, be sure to follow these tips to increase your chances of success.
We hope this information has been helpful in providing you with a comprehensive overview of the Machining Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship. We are always happy to answer any questions you may have about apprenticeships or careers in the manufacturing industry.If you would like to learn more about apprenticeship tips or guidance, please find out more here.
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