How you’d get it

How you’d get this certificate

  1. Zavmo teaches you. You learn the units one-to-one with an AI tutor, on your own work.
  2. You register with an approved centre. That is a college, training provider or employer Cambridge OCR has approved to offer this qualification. Zavmo is not an approved centre, so you register with them, not with us.
  3. The centre assesses, and Cambridge OCR awards. A qualified assessor at the centre judges your evidence, and the certificate comes from Cambridge OCR.

More on studying for a qualification

01What it is

The Level 3 Cambridge Technical Foundation Diploma in Engineering gives learners a foundation of core knowledge and skills for the engineering sector. It allows for further skill development through a range of optional units. Learners can study materials science, electrical engineering principles, and computer-aided design.

These are the units Cambridge OCR registers against this qualification. It is a catalogue, not a syllabus. Which of them you take depends on the combination the qualification requires, and that is set by the awarding body rather than by us. Every unit here is regulated. Zavmo teaches towards them on your own work, and work done here is recognised as prior learning under the agreements we hold.

Zavmo is not an awarding body, is not an approved centre, and is not affiliated with Cambridge OCR. It does the teaching and the mapping. Cambridge OCR sets this qualification and awards it, and a qualified human assessor makes the assessment decision.

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02The units

What each unit actually teaches you to do

Applied mathematics for engineering Real unit · Cambridge OCR
You'll apply algebraic, trigonometric, calculus, statistical, and mathematical modelling techniques to solve engineering problems and analyse engineering systems. This unit develops skills in manipulating formulas, solving equations, and interpreting engineering data.

What you'll be able to do

  • Apply algebraic techniques to solve engineering problems
  • Utilise trigonometric functions and identities in engineering calculations
  • Apply calculus principles to analyse engineering systems
  • Use statistical methods to interpret engineering data
  • Apply mathematical modelling techniques to simulate engineering scenarios
  • Solve differential equations relevant to engineering applications
  • Understand the use of matrices and vectors in engineering analysis
Automation control and robotics Real unit · Cambridge OCR
You'll study automation control and robotics principles, components, and system integration. The unit includes programming, operating, troubleshooting, maintaining, and evaluating automated control and robotic systems.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of automation control systems
  • Understand the principles of robotics
  • Identify the components of automation control and robotic systems
  • Program and operate automated control systems
  • Program and operate robotic systems
  • Integrate automation control and robotic systems
  • Troubleshoot and maintain automation control and robotic systems
  • Evaluate the performance of automation control and robotic systems
Business for engineering Real unit · Cambridge OCR
This unit provides learners with knowledge of business roles within the engineering sector, including business structures, financial analysis, marketing, legal and ethical considerations, and economic impacts. You'll analyse factors influencing engineering businesses.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the role of businesses within the engineering sector
  • Identify different types of business structures commonly found in engineering
  • Analyse the financial aspects of running an engineering business, including costs, revenue, and profit
  • Understand the importance of marketing and sales in the engineering industry
  • Investigate the legal and ethical considerations relevant to engineering businesses
  • Explore the impact of economic factors on engineering businesses
  • Understand the principles of project management within an engineering business context
Circuit simulation and manufacture Real unit · Cambridge OCR
This unit covers the principles and use of circuit simulation software to model and analyse electronic circuits. You'll interpret simulation results to identify potential issues and understand various manufacturing techniques, including soldering, for electronic circuit production.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of circuit simulation software
  • Use circuit simulation software to model and analyse electronic circuits
  • Interpret simulation results and identify potential circuit issues
  • Understand different manufacturing techniques for electronic circuits
  • Apply soldering and other assembly techniques to manufacture electronic circuits
  • Test and troubleshoot manufactured circuits
  • Understand the importance of safety procedures in circuit simulation and manufacture
Computer Aided Design CAD Real unit · Cambridge OCR
This unit develops learners' understanding of Computer Aided Design (CAD) principles and software use. You'll create, analyse, and modify 2D and 3D engineering models and produce technical drawings and documentation using CAD tools.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of Computer Aided Design (CAD)
  • Use CAD software to create 2D and 3D models
  • Apply CAD techniques to design engineering components
  • Analyse and modify existing CAD designs
  • Produce technical drawings and documentation using CAD software
Computer Aided Manufacturing CAM Real unit · Cambridge OCR
You'll gain knowledge of Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) principles and software applications. The unit includes generating and optimising toolpaths, analysing and modifying CAM programmes, and producing manufacturing documentation.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
  • Use CAM software to generate toolpaths for manufacturing processes
  • Apply CAM techniques to optimise manufacturing efficiency
  • Analyse and modify existing CAM programs
  • Produce manufacturing documentation using CAM software
Electrical and electronic design Real unit · Cambridge OCR
This unit equips learners with knowledge of electrical and electronic design principles. You'll apply design concepts to create and analyse circuits, evaluate component suitability, and produce detailed design documentation ensuring safety compliance.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental principles of electrical and electronic design
  • Apply design principles to create electrical and electronic circuits
  • Analyse the performance of electrical and electronic designs
  • Evaluate the suitability of components for specific electrical and electronic applications
  • Produce detailed documentation for electrical and electronic designs
Electrical devices Real unit · Cambridge OCR
This unit covers the characteristics, applications, and operation principles of various electrical devices. You'll identify and analyse resistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes, transistors, transformers, and motors within electronic circuits.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the characteristics and applications of various electrical devices
  • Identify different types of resistors, capacitors, and inductors
  • Analyse the behaviour of diodes and transistors in electronic circuits
  • Understand the principles of operation of transformers and motors
  • Apply appropriate measurement techniques to assess the performance of electrical devices
  • Troubleshoot common faults in electrical devices
  • Understand the safety considerations when working with electrical devices
Electrical operations Real unit · Cambridge OCR
You'll develop an understanding of electrical operations, including fundamental principles and safe working practices. The unit covers techniques for carrying out electrical tasks, interpreting circuit diagrams, and inspecting and testing electrical systems.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental principles of electrical operations
  • Demonstrate safe working practices when undertaking electrical operations
  • Apply appropriate techniques for carrying out electrical operations
  • Interpret electrical circuit diagrams and technical specifications
  • Inspect and test electrical systems and components
  • Diagnose faults in electrical systems and equipment
  • Carry out repairs and maintenance on electrical systems and equipment
  • Document electrical operations and maintenance activities
Electrical, mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic control Real unit · Cambridge OCR
This unit covers the principles of electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic control systems. You'll identify components, understand system functions, and perform integration, troubleshooting, and maintenance of these control systems.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of electrical control systems
  • Understand the principles of mechanical control systems
  • Understand the principles of hydraulic control systems
  • Understand the principles of pneumatic control systems
  • Identify the components of electrical, mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic control systems
  • Integrate electrical, mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic control systems
  • Troubleshoot and maintain electrical, mechanical, hydraulic and pneumatic control systems
  • Evaluate the performance of integrated control systems
Engineering and the environment Real unit · Cambridge OCR
This unit provides knowledge of the environmental impacts of engineering activities, relevant legislation, and sustainable practices. You'll evaluate technologies for waste management, pollution control, and sustainable engineering solutions.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the environmental impact of engineering activities
  • Identify relevant environmental legislation and regulations affecting engineering projects
  • Evaluate sustainable engineering practices and technologies
  • Analyse the principles of waste management and pollution control in engineering
  • Understand the importance of environmental impact assessments
  • Explore the role of engineers in promoting environmental sustainability
  • Investigate the use of renewable energy sources in engineering applications
Inspection and testing Real unit · Cambridge OCR
You'll study inspection and testing principles in engineering, including various methods to identify defects and verify product performance. The unit covers application of inspection techniques, testing procedures, and evaluation of results in compliance with standards.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of inspection and testing in engineering
  • Understand different types of inspection and testing methods
  • Apply inspection techniques to identify defects and non-conformities
  • Conduct testing procedures to verify product and system performance
  • Evaluate the results of inspection and testing activities
Lean and quality Real unit · Cambridge OCR
You'll study lean manufacturing and quality control principles in engineering. The unit covers applying lean techniques to improve efficiency, implementing quality control measures, and evaluating the effectiveness of these approaches.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of lean manufacturing and its application in engineering
  • Understand the importance of quality control in engineering processes
  • Apply lean techniques to improve efficiency and reduce waste
  • Implement quality control measures to ensure product and process reliability
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of lean and quality initiatives
Maintenance Real unit · Cambridge OCR
This unit introduces learners to maintenance principles and strategies in engineering systems, including preventative and reactive maintenance. You'll apply maintenance procedures, diagnose faults, and evaluate maintenance plans to ensure equipment reliability.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of maintenance in engineering systems
  • Understand different types of maintenance strategies, including preventative and reactive maintenance
  • Apply maintenance procedures to ensure the continued operation of equipment and systems
  • Diagnose faults and perform repairs on engineering equipment
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of maintenance programmes
Materials science Real unit · Cambridge OCR
This unit provides learners with an understanding of fundamental materials science principles, including atomic structure, bonding, and crystal defects. You'll identify and classify metals, alloys, and polymers, and analyse their properties for engineering applications.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental principles of materials science
  • Identify and classify different types of engineering materials
  • Analyse the properties of materials and their behaviour under different conditions
  • Evaluate the suitability of materials for specific engineering applications
  • Understand the impact of material selection on design performance
Mathematics for engineering Real unit · Cambridge OCR
This unit develops learners' mathematical skills for engineering applications. You'll apply algebra, trigonometry, statistics, and calculus to solve engineering problems and interpret mathematical results in relevant contexts.

What you'll be able to do

  • Apply mathematical principles to solve engineering problems
  • Use algebraic techniques to manipulate and solve equations relevant to engineering
  • Apply trigonometric principles to engineering calculations
  • Use statistical methods to analyse engineering data
  • Apply calculus to solve engineering problems
  • Interpret and present mathematical data in engineering contexts
Mechanical design Real unit · Cambridge OCR
It teaches you to understand and apply mechanical design principles. You'll design and analyse mechanical components and systems, evaluate material suitability, and produce detailed design documentation incorporating statics and dynamics principles.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental principles of mechanical design
  • Apply design principles to create mechanical components and systems
  • Analyse the performance of mechanical designs
  • Evaluate the suitability of materials for specific mechanical applications
  • Produce detailed documentation for mechanical designs
Mechanical operations Real unit · Cambridge OCR
You'll explore fundamental principles and safe practices in mechanical operations. The unit covers techniques for mechanical tasks, interpretation of engineering drawings, and inspection and testing of mechanical components and systems.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental principles of mechanical operations
  • Demonstrate safe working practices when undertaking mechanical operations
  • Apply appropriate techniques for carrying out mechanical operations
  • Interpret mechanical engineering drawings and technical specifications
  • Inspect and test mechanical systems and components
  • Diagnose faults in mechanical systems and equipment
  • Carry out repairs and maintenance on mechanical systems and equipment
  • Document mechanical operations and maintenance activities
Mechanical simulation and modelling Real unit · Cambridge OCR
You'll understand mechanical simulation and modelling principles and apply software tools to develop models based on specifications. The unit includes analysing simulation results, validating models against real data, and interpreting findings.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of mechanical simulation and modelling
  • Apply appropriate software tools for mechanical simulation and modelling
  • Develop mechanical models based on given specifications
  • Analyse the results of mechanical simulations
  • Validate mechanical models against real-world data
  • Interpret and present the findings of mechanical simulation and modelling activities
  • Evaluate the accuracy and limitations of mechanical simulation and modelling techniques
  • Apply mechanical simulation and modelling to solve engineering problems
Principles of electrical and electronic engineering Real unit · Cambridge OCR
You'll study the fundamental principles of electrical and electronic engineering, including voltage, current, resistance, and electromagnetism. The unit covers analysis of electrical and electronic circuits and understanding component characteristics and applications.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand fundamental principles of electrical engineering
  • Understand fundamental principles of electronic engineering
  • Analyse electrical circuits using appropriate techniques
  • Analyse electronic circuits using appropriate techniques
  • Understand the characteristics of electrical and electronic components
  • Apply principles of electrical and electronic engineering to solve practical problems
Principles of mechanical engineering Real unit · Cambridge OCR
This unit provides learners with knowledge of fundamental mechanical engineering principles, including statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics. You'll analyse mechanical systems and material behaviour, applying safety considerations in design and operation.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand fundamental principles of mechanical engineering
  • Apply principles of statics and dynamics to analyse mechanical systems
  • Analyse the behaviour of materials under stress and strain
  • Understand the principles of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics
  • Apply principles of mechanical design to solve engineering problems
  • Evaluate the performance of mechanical systems
Science for engineering Real unit · Cambridge OCR
You'll explore fundamental scientific principles relevant to engineering, such as Newton's laws and thermodynamics. The unit includes analysis of engineering systems, investigation of material properties, and application of scientific methods to energy transfer and conservation.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand fundamental scientific principles relevant to engineering
  • Apply scientific principles to analyse engineering systems and processes
  • Investigate the properties of materials used in engineering applications
  • Understand the principles of energy transfer and conservation
  • Apply scientific measurement techniques to engineering problems
  • Evaluate the impact of scientific advancements on engineering practices
Systems and programming Real unit · Cambridge OCR
You'll understand engineering systems and programming principles, applying programming techniques to solve engineering problems. The unit also covers hardware-software interactions and evaluates system performance.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental concepts of systems in an engineering context
  • Understand the principles of programming and software development
  • Apply programming techniques to solve engineering problems
  • Analyse the interaction between hardware and software systems
  • Evaluate the performance of different programming solutions
03The standards

The national standards these units are built against

What the job actually needs, in the words employers and awarding bodies already use for the work itself.

  • Carry out Computer Modelling and Simulation of a Biomanufacturing Process

    Standard
  • Inspecting engineering products by thermography testing

    Standard
04Where it leads

The jobs these credits are mapped to

A qualification is never a dead end here. Each of these is a job record this qualification is a mapped route into.

Showing 6 roles, drawn from 47 job records mapped to this qualification. Near-identical records are folded together, and each row says how many it stands for.

Where this can lead

Maintenance Technician

This work can lead to supervising other technicians, or managing maintenance and engineering across whole buildings or portfolios.

See the whole journey
05The credits

The credits, and who awards them

Level 3 credits are regulated, and they are awarded by Cambridge OCR rather than by Zavmo. They don’t vanish when a subscription ends or a website closes. They travel to any employer, and Zavmo keeps the map of what you have covered and what is next.

What you would be collecting

Applied mathematics for engineeringAutomation control and roboticsBusiness for engineeringCircuit simulation and manufactureComputer Aided Design CADComputer Aided Manufacturing CAMElectrical and electronic designElectrical devices

Each one is a real unit registered against this qualification.

How you’d practise it

You don’t watch this. You do it.

You are not assessed on remembering this. You are assessed on applying it, analysing it, evaluating it and producing something. So that is what the practice is: projects, role play and your own live cases, with a tutor in the room.

The Analyst The Analyst · your map-it-properly tutor Illustration
The Analyst In “Lean and quality” you have moved the target from 48 hours to 24. Where does that time come from?
You The team prioritises better, I suppose.
The Analyst Or it comes out of the follow-ups, and reopened cases climb in about six weeks. Let us map it and find out which, before it is a surprise.
The same lesson on the real thing: the conversation in the middle, the thinking ladder on the left, and the criteria each answer is evidencing on the right.
  • Map a live decision Analyse

    “Lean and quality” runs on a decision you are facing now. Zavmo maps it with you and shows what the second-order effect looks like before you find out the slow way.

How you would learn this

One to one, on the work you already do

A tutor sets the task against your own job and marks the reasoning, at your pace. There is no cohort to fall behind.

A lesson from Applied mathematics for engineering, one of this qualification's own units.

Applied mathematics for engineering Level 3

Applied to your work in any of these jobs

Learners will apply algebraic, trigonometric, calculus, statistical, and mathematical modelling techniques to solve engineering problems and analyse engineering systems. This unit develops skills in manipulating formulas, solving equations, and interpreting engineering data.

How the thinking builds
  1. 1 Remember
  2. 2 Understand
  3. 3 Apply
  4. 4 Analyse
  5. 5 Evaluate
  6. 6 Create
An illustration of a Zavmo lesson, built from this role’s own route. The unit, its objective and every criterion above are the awarding body’s own words, not an example.

It is £70 a month, billed monthly. Your free first module is Future Fluency, and you can cancel any time. Teaching towards this qualification begins when you subscribe.

Your Plan Illustration

Built for Cambridge OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Foundation Diploma in Engineering

23 units in this credential, in the order it lists them, awarded by Cambridge OCR.

  1. Applied mathematics for engineering
  2. Automation control and robotics
  3. Business for engineering
  4. Circuit simulation and manufacture
  5. Computer Aided Design CAD
  6. Computer Aided Manufacturing CAM

and 17 more in the full unit list below.

These are the real units of this credential, in its own order. Nothing here is marked done, because this plan has not been started by anyone yet. Yours would fill in as you go.

Learned on your own work, taught one-to-one.

Everything you just read, learned one-to-one on the job you already do. Your free first module is Future Fluency, so you can see how the teaching works before you pay for anything.

Build my plan, free

No card. See how this qualification maps onto your role and meet the tutors who’d teach it, free. The learning begins when you subscribe. It’s £70 a month, billed monthly. Cancel any time and billing stops.

The title, level, credits, guided learning hours and unit learning outcomes on this page are taken from the Ofqual Register of Regulated Qualifications. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Where this data comes from.