Metal Fabricator - Apprenticeship - Level 3

This occupation is found in the advanced manufacturing engineering and engineering construction sectors.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to carry out metal fabrication work using things such as:

• Rolled steel joists
• Columns
• Channels
• Steel plate
• Metal sheet etc.

Work includes manufacturing:

• Bridges
• Oil rigs
• Ships
• Petro-chemical installations
• Cranes
• Platforms
• Aircraft
• Automotive and machinery parts
• Sheet metal enclosures
• Equipment supports
• And anything that can be fabricated out of metal

Fabricators can work alone or in teams, in factories or on operational sites.

You will need:

• A suitable employer who is available to start you as an apprentice
• 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including maths, English and a science or;
• A relevant level 2 engineering qualification (such as our Engineering - Level 2 course) and a level 2 (or GCSEs at grade 4 or above) in functional skills in English and maths.

How long is this course?

42 Months

When does this course start?

02/09/2026

How many hours / days per week is this course?

42 months on a day release basis (attending college one day per week)

What qualification will I achieve?

• EAL Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Knowledge).

• Level 2 in English and maths (a pre-requisite for entry on to the apprenticeship).

How is my course assessed?

The end-point assessment has two distinct components:

• A practical test to assess your ability to apply core skills in metal fabrication.

• A professional discussion to assess knowledge, skills and behaviours across the standard, which will be informed by your portfolio of evidence