Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited · RQF Level 3

EAL Level 3 Certificate in Engineering Technologies

You don’t just earn this. You learn to use it, one-to-one, on your own real work.

  • LevelRQF Level 3
  • Total credits28
  • Guided learning225 hours
  • Units in this qualification92

Awarded by Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited · on the Ofqual register

Start here

See how this course maps onto your role

Ten quick questions, one per Future Fluency, asked against this qualification rather than a generic one.

Check my fluency, free

About 5 minutes · No card · Nothing to commit to

What you’ll learn

What each unit actually teaches you to do

The EAL Level 3 Certificate in Engineering Technologies provides learners with advanced knowledge and understanding of engineering practices and processes, essential for effective employment in various engineering roles.

These are the units Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited 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, and every one you earn is yours to keep.

Advanced Manufacture Techniques – Computer Numerical Control –CNC-Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit introduces the fundamental concepts of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) technology, including machine tool design, tooling and work holding, part programming, and operational control. You'll understand CNC machine components, axes of movement, and the importance of machine setting for accurate manufacturing.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the basic concepts of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) technology
  • Understand the basic design principles of CNC machine tools
  • Understand the selection and application of tooling and work holding devices for CNC machines
  • Understand the principles of CNC part programming and machine operation
  • Understand CNC operational control parameters and machine setting procedures
Advanced Manufacturing TechniquesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers advanced manufacturing techniques, including technology installations, manufacturing flexibility, and special processes. You'll understand fundamental principles, safety considerations, and business improvement techniques relevant to manufacturing.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental principles of advanced manufacturing technology installations.
  • Understand the requirements for advanced manufacturing technology installations.
  • Understand the advantages of incorporating manufacturing flexibility into a manufacturing process.
  • Understand the limitations of incorporating manufacturing flexibility into a manufacturing process.
  • Understand the fundamental principles of special manufacturing processes.
  • Understand the fundamental principles of business improvement techniques.
Advanced MillingReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll gain an understanding of advanced milling operations, including the use of rotary tables and dividing heads. The unit covers cutting tool materials, milling machine functions, and quality requirements for checking milled components.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of milling operations, equipment, and procedures.
  • Understand the use and functions of rotary tables and dividing heads in milling.
  • Name and describe the properties of various cutting tool materials used in milling.
  • Understand the quality requirements for checking milled components, including tolerances and surface finishes.
Advanced Personal Computer PC MaintenanceReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll develop skills in advanced personal computer maintenance, including health and safety principles, safe handling, hardware components, software installation, system configuration, and testing. The unit also covers internal PC structure and fault diagnosis.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the relevant Health and Safety principles and regulations applicable to computer maintenance and repair environments.
  • Demonstrate safe handling practices and working procedures when interacting with computers and electronic components.
  • Understand the function and compatibility of essential hardware components and software elements required to install and configure a fully functional computer system.
  • Build, install, configure, and thoroughly test a computer system to ensure it meets specified performance requirements.
  • Sketch and describe the internal structure and functionality of main chipsets, system boards, adapter cards, interfaces, and connector ports within a computer system.
  • Install, upgrade, and test operating systems, including configuring drivers and system settings.
  • Maintain and enhance the performance of a computer system through software updates, hardware upgrades, and system optimisation techniques.
  • Connect computers to a network system, configure network settings, and manage the network system for optimal performance and security.
Advanced TurningReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit develops knowledge of centre lathe construction, ancillary equipment, lathe tool selection using ISO coding, factors affecting turning of engineering materials, and basic calculations related to turning operations, including handling eccentric components.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the construction and nomenclature of centre lathes and ancillary equipment
  • Understand lathe tool selection criteria and the ISO coding for replaceable/indexable inserts and holders
  • Understand the factors affecting the turning of a range of common engineering materials
  • Understand basic calculations required by turning operations
  • Understand techniques used for holding and turning eccentric/non-circular components
  • Understand the use of fixed and travelling steadies
  • Understand advanced turning techniques
Aircraft Maintenance and Manufacturing Engineering ProceduresReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll explore aircraft maintenance and manufacturing procedures, including the care and safe use of workshop tools, interpretation of engineering drawings, workshop fitting techniques, and the application of adhesives, sealants, and bonding methods. The unit emphasises hazard identification and control in workshop environments.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the correct care, control, and safe use of aircraft workshop tools and equipment
  • Understand different engineering drawing types and the standards of limits and fits used in aircraft component manufacture
  • Understand and perform workshop fitting, dismantling, and assembly exercises on aircraft components
  • Understand the use of adhesives, sealants, and bonding techniques in aircraft manufacture and repair
  • Understand the different types and uses of aircraft rivets and locking devices
  • Understand the procedures for the removal and replacement of airframe structures and components
Analogue ElectronicsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers analogue electronics principles, including semiconductor atomic models, regulated power supplies, oscillators, amplifiers, and operational amplifiers. You'll understand the operation and applications of these electronic components.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand atomic models for semiconductor materials, including the behaviour of electrons and holes.
  • Understand the operation of regulated power supplies, including rectifiers, filters, and voltage regulators.
  • Understand the principle of operation of oscillators and their applications in electronic circuits.
  • Understand the characteristics and applications of different types of amplifiers, including common emitter, common collector, and common base configurations.
  • Understand the characteristics and applications of operational amplifiers (op-amps) in analogue circuits.
Analogue systems engineeringReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides knowledge of analogue systems engineering, focusing on basic electrical components, electrical machines, and amplification systems. You'll understand the effects and applications of negative and positive feedback in analogue circuits.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the function of basic components commonly used in analogue electrical/electronic systems.
  • Understand the operation of electrical machines.
  • Understand the concepts of amplification systems.
  • Understand the effects of negative feedback in analogue electrical/electronic systems.
  • Understand the uses of negative feedback in analogue electrical/electronic systems.
  • Understand the effects of positive feedback in analogue electrical/electronic systems.
  • Understand the uses of positive feedback in analogue electrical/electronic systems.
Assembling aircraft structures and componentsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll develop knowledge of procedures for assembling, installing, removing, and replacing aircraft structures and components. The unit emphasises adherence to approved maintenance documentation and the use of appropriate tools and equipment.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand how to install aircraft structures and components
  • Understand how to remove and replace airframe structures and components
  • Understand how to assemble aircraft structures and components
Automated Welding ProcessesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers automated welding processes, including Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), and Submerged Arc Welding (SAW). You'll understand welding metallurgy, health and safety considerations, equipment and consumables use, and the production of quality welds.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of automated welding processes, including Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW), Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), and Submerged Arc Welding (SAW).
  • Understand the principles of welding metallurgy, including the effects of heat input, cooling rate, and filler metal composition on weld properties.
  • Understand the principles of welding health and safety applied to automated welding, including fume extraction, personal protective equipment, and fire prevention.
  • Use automated welding equipment, including robotic welding systems and programmable welding controllers, to produce welds.
  • Use automated welding consumables, including welding wire, shielding gas, and fluxes, according to specified procedures.
  • Produce welds using automated welding procedures, ensuring that they meet the required quality standards and specifications.
Building Mechanical Maintenance Systems and ServicesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll explore building services engineering with a focus on mechanical systems, including plumbing and industrial pipework, compressed air systems, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC). The unit covers relevant skills, professional roles, and the importance of building regulations and standards.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the main skills and knowledge required for building services engineering
  • Understand the main features of plumbing and industrial pipework installations in buildings
  • Understand the operation and maintenance of compressed air systems in industrial and commercial applications
  • Understand the main features and operation of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in buildings
Computer Aided Design CAD TechniquesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit equips learners with skills to use Computer Aided Design (CAD) systems effectively, covering health and safety risks, data management, system configuration, and compliance with national and international standards for CAD drawings and designs.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the risks to health and safety associated with the use of computer equipment and associated peripheral devices
  • Understand how to manage stored data files effectively
  • Configure a CAD system to meet task requirements
  • Understand the requirement of CAD drawings and designs to comply with national and international standards and conventions
  • Understand how to use a CAD system for the production of complex two dimensional (2D) engineering drawings and designs
  • Understand how to modify, copy, manipulate and erase drawn entities
  • Understand how to use a CAD system for the production of basic three dimensional (3D) models and realisations
  • Understand how to output CAD data to peripheral devices
Computer Numerical Control CNC Programming/machiningReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll develop an understanding of CNC programming and machining, including health and safety risks, types of CNC equipment, data preparation, and coordinate system application. The unit covers machine operation, programming techniques, and the importance of safety measures in CNC environments.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the risks to health and safety associated with the use of CNC equipment, including machine guarding, electrical safety, and chip removal.
  • Understand the types and applications of CNC equipment typically in use within manufacturing industry, including CNC milling machines, CNC lathes, and CNC routers.
  • Understand the importance of data preparation and relevant calculations typically required for the manufacture of components by the use of CNC equipment, including coordinate systems, tool offsets, and cutting speeds.
  • Produce coded part programs of structure and format appropriate to CNC equipment in use, using G-code and M-code programming languages.
  • Input data into CNC controllers and prepare CNC and ancillary equipment for manufacture, including tool setting, workpiece clamping, and machine calibration.
  • Prove-out CNC programs by simulating the machining process and making necessary adjustments to the program.
  • Produce a first-off component using a CNC machine, ensuring that it meets the required specifications.
  • Understand the requirements of first-off component inspection, including dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and material properties.
Computer aided design (CAD) techniquesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
Focusing on CAD tools, this unit equips learners with the skills to design components and systems digitally.

What you'll be able to do

  • Utilise CAD software for engineering design
Data Communications and NetworkingReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll study data communications and networking principles, including advantages and disadvantages, peer-to-peer and client-server networks, electronic signal types, and characteristics of LANs, WANs, and MANs, alongside network hardware and operating systems.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the advantages and disadvantages of data communications and networking
  • Understand peer-to-peer networks and client server based networks and the types of electronic signals that are used
  • Understand and define LAN’s (local area networks), WAN’s (wide area networks) and MAN’s (metropolitan area networks)
  • Understand the main features of a variety of network hardware and operating systems
  • Understand the main features for the following technologies: STAR, RING, MESH Ethernet and Token Ring
  • Understand the concepts used by the OSI seven-layer model with reference to the associated hardware
  • Understand the current legislation that applies to the workplace, including PAT testing, DSE and relevant health and safety regulations
  • Understand the hardware required to use a P.C. on a network
Digital ElectronicsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides a comprehensive understanding of digital electronics, covering number systems, standard logic gates, combinational and sequential logic circuits, and logic technologies. You'll develop the ability to analyse and apply digital logic concepts within electronic systems.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the characteristics of digital quantities, including binary, decimal, and hexadecimal number systems.
  • Understand the function and application of standard logic gates such as AND, OR, NOT, NAND, NOR, XOR, and XNOR.
  • Understand the different logic technologies, including TTL, CMOS, and ECL.
  • Understand the operation and application of combinational logic circuits, including adders, subtractors, multiplexers, and demultiplexers.
  • Understand the function and application of latches, flip-flops (SR, D, JK, T), tri-state devices, and Schmitt triggers.
  • Demonstrate a systems approach to the application of logic circuits and counters by designing, building, and testing a digital system.
Digital systemsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll gain a comprehensive understanding of digital electronic systems, including components, circuits, microcontroller-based systems, and digital communications networks. The unit covers hardware-software relationships and basic digital logic operations.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the function of the components of digital electronic systems
  • Understand the operation of digital circuits
  • Understand the purpose and basic operation of microcontroller-based systems
  • Understand the principles of digital communications systems and networks
Electrical Maintenance in BuildingsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers electrical supplies and systems within buildings, emphasising safe maintenance practices. You'll understand lighting systems, low voltage equipment, inspection methods, and the use of electrical instruments for maintenance tasks.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand electrical supplies to buildings
  • Understand the safe maintenance of electrical systems
  • Understand the safe maintenance of electrical equipment
  • Understand lighting systems
  • Understand the maintenance of lighting systems
  • Understand low voltage electrical equipment maintenance
  • Understand the applications of electrical instruments
Electrical Power for Engineering ApplicationsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll gain knowledge of electrical power systems, including safe working practices, generation, transmission, distribution, and circuit principles. The unit also covers the utilisation and installation of electrical supplies for engineering applications.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand how to work safely in an electrical engineering environment, adhering to relevant regulations and procedures.
  • Understand how electrical energy is generated, transmitted, and distributed from source to end-user.
  • Understand the fundamental principles of electrical circuits, including Ohm's Law, Kirchhoff's Laws, and circuit analysis techniques.
  • Understand the utilisation of electrical supplies for various engineering applications, considering factors such as voltage, current, and power requirements.
  • Understand the operation, installation, and maintenance procedures for electric motors and machines.
  • Carry out inspection and testing procedures on electrical equipment to ensure safety and functionality.
Electrical Testing and CommissioningReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides knowledge of the legal, regulatory, and safety requirements for the inspection, testing, and commissioning of electrical installations. You'll understand safe procedures for isolation, inspection, and testing of electrical systems.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the requirements for the inspection, testing and commissioning of an electrical installation.
  • Understand the procedures and requirements for the safe inspection of an electrical installation.
  • Understand the procedures and requirements for the safe testing and commissioning of an electrical installation.
  • Understand the procedures and requirements for the safe and effective in service inspection and testing of electrical equipment.
  • Carry out inspection and testing of an electrical installation.
  • Carry out in service inspection and testing of electrical equipment.
Electrical and Electronic PrinciplesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
It teaches you to understand electrical and electronic principles, including the effects of internal resistance, temperature, dielectric, and magnetic materials on circuit behaviour. You'll investigate phasor representation and related calculations.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the effects of the internal resistance of a source on terminal voltage
  • Understand the effects of temperature on resistance
  • Understand the effect of dielectric materials on capacitance
  • Understand the effect of dielectric materials on voltage rating
  • Understand the behaviour of magnetic materials
  • Understand the effect of magnetic materials on inductance
  • Investigate phasor representation of alternating quantities
  • Apply phasor representation to series and parallel circuits
  • Understand single and three phase AC circuits
  • Investigate and plot the transient response of C-R circuits to non-sinusoidal waveforms
  • Investigate and plot the transient response of L-R circuits to non-sinusoidal waveforms
Engineering CommunicationsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit develops learners' ability to interpret engineering diagrams and schematics, communicate technical information verbally and in writing, and use ICT to present engineering data. You'll extract and apply information from various technical sources.

What you'll be able to do

  • Interpret and use engineering diagrams, such as schematics, blueprints, and technical drawings, to communicate technical information effectively.
  • Use verbal and written communication skills effectively in engineering settings, including presentations, reports, and technical documentation.
  • Obtain and use engineering information from various sources, including technical manuals, datasheets, and online resources.
  • Use information and communication technology (ICT) tools and software to present information effectively in engineering settings, such as creating presentations, spreadsheets, and reports.
Engineering Design ProcessReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll study the engineering design process, including stages, material selection factors, manufacturing and economic influences, ergonomic principles, simple mechanisms, and safety considerations. The unit develops an understanding of how these factors integrate to inform effective design decisions.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the stages and considerations within the Engineering Design Process.
  • Understand the various Factors that influence the choice of material in a design, including properties and cost.
  • Understand how Manufacturing Processes and Economic Factors influence design decisions and optimisation.
  • Understand the Ergonomic Principles Involved in Design to ensure user comfort and safety.
  • Understand the operation and application of Simple Mechanisms in engineering designs.
  • Understand the Safety Aspects of Design and the importance of risk assessment and mitigation.
Engineering Inspection and Quality ControlReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers engineering inspection and quality control within a Quality Management System. You'll understand key measurement concepts such as variation, repeatability, and tolerance, and the role of inspection in ensuring product and process standards.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand how inspection and quality control are key parts of an organisation's Quality Management System, ensuring products and processes meet specified standards.
  • Understand the meanings of variation, repeatability, reproducibility, accuracy, tolerance, limit, and capability in the context of measurement and quality control.
  • Understand the difference between comparison, gauging, and measurement techniques used in engineering inspection.
  • Understand which type of gauge to use (gap, plug, plate, feeler, etc.) for specific measurement tasks, and how they must be used correctly to obtain accurate results.
  • Understand basic measuring instruments, including callipers, micrometers, and protractors, and their applications in engineering inspection.
  • Understand advanced measuring techniques and instruments, such as coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) and laser scanners, and their applications in quality control.
  • Understand the term 'Geometric Tolerance' and common geometric tolerance symbols used in engineering drawings to specify allowable variations in form, orientation, and location.
  • Understand a normal distribution curve and its application in statistical process control for monitoring and improving quality.
Engineering Inspection and Quality ControlReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll explore engineering inspection and quality control within a Quality Management System, understanding how inspection and quality control contribute to defect prevention. The unit covers key measurement concepts and the role of quality control in organisational processes.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand how inspection is a key part of an organisation's Quality Management System
  • Understand how Quality Control is a key part of an organisation's Quality Management System
  • Understand the meaning of variation
  • Understand the meaning of repeatability
  • Understand the meaning of reproducibility
  • Understand the meaning of accuracy
  • Understand the meaning of tolerance
  • Understand the meaning of limit
  • Understand the meaning of capability
  • Understand the difference between comparison, gauging and measurement
  • Understand which type of gauge to use (Gap, Plug, Plate, Feeler, etc.)
  • Understand how gauges must be used
  • Understand basic measuring instruments
  • Understand advanced measuring techniques
  • Understand advanced measuring instruments
  • Understand the term ‘Geometric Tolerance’
  • Understand common geometric tolerance symbols
  • Understand a normal distribution curve
Engineering InstrumentationReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
It teaches you to understand the role of instrumentation in monitoring, controlling, and data acquisition within engineering processes. It covers system block-diagram representation and the principles of operation and testing of process pressure measuring instruments.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the need for instrumentation in engineering processes and systems, including its role in monitoring, control, and data acquisition. Understand the use of system block-diagram representation and typical instrumentation terminology.
  • Understand the principles of operation of a range of typical process pressure measuring instrumentation, their operational limitations and typical applications. Test and calibrate a typical pressure measuring device.
  • Understand the principles of operation of a range of typical process level measuring instrumentation, their operational limitations and typical applications. Test and calibrate a typical level measuring device.
  • Understand the principles of operation of a range of typical process flow measuring instrumentation, their operational limitations and typical applications. Test and/or calibrate a typical flow measuring device.
  • Understand the principles of operation of a range of typical process temperature measuring instrumentation, their operational limitations and typical applications. Test and/or calibrate a typical temperature measuring device.
  • Understand the principles of operation of a range of typical indicating and recording instrumentation used in engineering applications.
Engineering MathematicsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll develop mathematical skills to solve engineering problems using formulas, trigonometric methods, standard formulae for areas and volumes, basic calculus, and statistical data analysis relevant to engineering contexts.

What you'll be able to do

  • Solve engineering related problems mathematically
  • Apply formulas and trigonometric methods
  • Use standard formulae to find areas and volumes
  • Use basic calculus
  • Use statistical data
Engineering Organisational Efficiency and ImprovementReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides an understanding of production activities within engineering organisations, quality control and assurance methods, and organisational improvement techniques. You'll also examine personnel rights and responsibilities and how these factors contribute to operational efficiency and competitiveness.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of production activities within an engineering organisation.
  • Understand the application of quality control measures in engineering processes.
  • Understand the application of quality assurance procedures in engineering processes.
  • Understand organisational improvement techniques used in engineering.
  • Understand how organisational improvement techniques contribute to competitiveness.
  • Understand personnel rights and responsibilities within an engineering organisation.
Engineering and Environmental Health and SafetyReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll develop an understanding of health and safety roles, responsibilities, and regulations within engineering environments. The unit covers risk assessments, safe material handling and storage, accident reporting procedures, and environmental management principles relevant to engineering practice.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand health and safety roles and responsibilities within an engineering context
  • Understand the application of health and safety regulations and procedures in the engineering environment
  • Understand the procedures for the safe moving and storing of materials in an engineering environment
  • Understand the principles of environmental management and sustainability in engineering operations
Engineering and environmental health and safetyReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit focuses on health and safety principles relevant to the engineering environment, ensuring learners understand the importance of safety protocols.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand health and safety roles and responsibilities
Engineering mathematicsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
It teaches you to apply mathematical techniques relevant to engineering contexts, enhancing their analytical skills.

What you'll be able to do

  • Apply mathematical principles to engineering problems
Engineering organisational efficiency and improvementReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit examines production activities and quality control processes essential for the efficiency of engineering operations.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand production activities
Fabrication and Welding PrinciplesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit examines materials technology relevant to fabrication and welding, including metallic corrosion and surface protection, materials testing, heat treatment processes, and the application of maths and engineering science in fabrication and welding contexts.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand materials technology relating to fabrication & welding
  • Understand the principles of metallic corrosion and methods of surface protection
  • Understand materials testing procedures relevant to fabrication & welding
  • Understand common types of heat treatment process
  • Understand the application of maths to fabrication and welding
  • Understand the application of engineering science to fabrication and welding
Fixed Wing Theory of FlightReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll explore the fundamental principles of fixed-wing theory of flight, including aerodynamics, lift and drag factors, and airflow patterns around aerofoils. The unit also covers in-flight forces, flight controls, and lift generation mechanisms.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the basic principles of aerodynamics, including air pressure, airflow, and the generation of aerodynamic forces.
  • Understand the factors that affect lift and drag at various angles of attack and velocities, as well as airflow patterns around aerofoils.
  • Understand the in-flight forces acting on aircraft during level flight and when manoeuvring, including lift, weight, thrust, and drag.
  • Understand the function and operation of flight controls and lift augmentation devices used in fixed-wing aircraft.
  • Understand how aircraft stability is achieved through design features and control systems.
Further Electrical and Electronic PrinciplesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers advanced electrical and electronic principles including the analysis of electrical networks using network theorems, further electrostatic and electromagnetic concepts, and advanced alternating current theory. You'll learn to calculate circuit parametres and evaluate network performance under various conditions.

What you'll be able to do

  • Analyse Electrical Networks
  • Understand further electrostatic principles
  • Understand further electromagnetic and magnetic circuit principles
  • Understand advanced alternating current theory
Further Engineering MathematicsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit equips learners with mathematical techniques to solve engineering problems, including trigonometry, complex numbers, and calculus. You'll apply these methods to interpret and solve practical engineering scenarios.

What you'll be able to do

  • Solve engineering related mathematical problems
  • Solve engineering related problems involving trigonometry
  • Use complex numbers to solve engineering problems
  • Apply calculus to solve basic engineering related problems
Further Engineering ScienceReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers further engineering science principles, including the effects of static and dynamic forces on mechanical systems, fundamentals of electricity and magnetism, and the relationships between energy, work, and power. You'll analyse mechanical and electrical concepts relevant to engineering applications.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the effects of both Static and Dynamic Forces on Mechanical Bodies and Systems.
  • Understand the fundamental Principles of Electricity and Magnetism.
  • Understand the function of Electric and Magnetic Components and the Operation of Direct Current Circuits and Machines.
  • Understand the Relationships Between Energy, Work and Power in both Mechanical and Thermal Systems.
  • Understand Closed-loop Engineering Systems and analyse their behaviour under different conditions.
  • Understand Engineering Frameworks and Structures and analyse their behaviour under the influence of External Forces and Loads.
  • Understand the effects of External Forces on Mechanical Engineering Components and predict their response.
  • Understand the Principles and Effects of Rotational Movement of Mechanical Bodies and Systems.
  • Understand the various Means of Mechanical Power Transmission and their applications.
Further electrical and electronic principlesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
Building on basic principles, this unit delves deeper into electrical systems and their operational mechanisms.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand advanced electrical concepts
Further engineering scienceReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers advanced topics in engineering science, enhancing understanding of materials and processes.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand material properties and their applications
Gear CuttingReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit introduces learners to various gear types, including spur, helical, bevel, and worm gears, along with their nomenclature, materials, and applications. You'll understand methods for forming gear blanks and basic machining techniques using milling cutters and reciprocating tools.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the different types of gear in common use within engineering applications
  • Understand the standard nomenclature used for spur gears and worm gears
  • Understand the different materials used in gear manufacture and their specific applications
  • Understand the various methods used for forming gear blanks prior to machining
  • Understand the basic principles of machining gears using milling cutters and associated equipment
  • Understand the basic principles of gear machining using reciprocating tools, such as shapers and planers
  • Understand the basic principles of gear grinding and honing processes for achieving precise gear tooth profiles and surface finishes
General Engineering Maintenance TechniquesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll develop knowledge of general engineering maintenance techniques such as basic turning operations, hand tool use, fitting skills, AC mains measurements, pipe fitting, and thermal joining and cutting. The unit emphasises safe practices and the selection of appropriate tools and methods in maintenance tasks.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand basic turning skills used in engineering maintenance.
  • Understand the application of basic hand tools in engineering maintenance.
  • Understand the application of fitting skills in engineering maintenance.
  • Understand AC mains measurements and safe working practices.
  • Understand pipe fitting techniques used in engineering maintenance.
  • Understand thermal joining techniques used in engineering maintenance.
  • Understand thermal cutting techniques used in engineering maintenance.
Installation of Electrical EquipmentReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers safe systems of working and procedures for selecting, installing, fixing, and connecting electrical wiring systems and equipment. You'll also understand inspection, testing, and commissioning requirements for electrical installations.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand safe systems of working
  • Understand the procedures used to select wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment
  • Understand the methods of installing, fixing and connecting wiring systems, wiring enclosures and equipment
  • Understand electrical inspection, testing and commissioning on installed equipment, distribution systems and machines
  • Carry out installation and commissioning of electrical equipment
Maintenance Engineering PrinciplesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll explore maintenance engineering principles, including the properties and selection of materials, tools and equipment, fundamental numeracy and science, formal information systems, organisational aspects, and maintenance engineering techniques.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the materials used in maintenance engineering
  • Understand the selection and use of tools and equipment used in maintenance engineering
  • Understand the fundamental numeracy used in maintenance engineering
  • Understand the fundamental science used in maintenance engineering
  • Understand the sources and use of formal information systems used in maintenance engineering
  • Understand the organisation and techniques used in maintenance engineering
Maintenance of Fluid Power Systems and ComponentsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll study fluid power systems and components, including hydraulic and pneumatic systems. The unit covers principles of fluid flow, operation of components, system symbols, and safety considerations for high pressure air and fluid systems.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the basic principles of hydraulic systems
  • Understand the basic principles of high pressure air production
  • Understand the basic principles of pneumatic systems
  • Understand the operation of hydraulic components
  • Understand the operation of pneumatic components
  • Understand hydraulic component symbols
  • Understand pneumatic component symbols
  • Understand the principles of fluid flow
  • Understand the operation of pressure components
  • Understand the operation of fluid logic components
  • Understand the principles of fluid logic component design
  • Understand the operation of hydraulic sequencing circuits
  • Understand the operation of pneumatic timing circuits
  • Understand the operation of pneumatic sequencing circuits
  • Understand the operation of electro-hydraulic components
  • Understand the operation of electro-pneumatic components
  • Understand the principles of electro-hydraulic circuit design
  • Understand the principles of electro-pneumatic circuit design
  • Understand the operation of PLC controlled hydraulic systems
  • Understand the operation of PLC controlled pneumatic systems
  • Understand the operation of proportional hydraulic valves
  • Understand the operation of proportional hydraulic systems
  • Design hydraulic circuits
  • Design pneumatic circuits
  • Safely construct hydraulic circuits
  • Safely construct pneumatic circuits
  • Fault find on hydraulic circuits
  • Fault find on pneumatic circuits
Maintenance of Hydraulic Systems and ComponentsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll gain a thorough understanding of hydraulic systems, including Pascal's Law, fluid flow principles, and the operation of hydraulic components such as pumps, valves, and actuators. The unit also covers hydraulic sequencing and electro-hydraulic circuit functions and interpretation of hydraulic circuit diagrams.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the basic principles governing the operation of Hydraulic Systems.
  • Understand the operation of various Hydraulic Components and interpret their corresponding symbols in circuit diagrams.
  • Understand the principles of Fluid Flow within hydraulic systems and the operation of Pressure Components used to control them.
  • Understand the operation of Hydraulic Sequencing Circuits and their applications.
  • Understand the operation of Electro-hydraulic Components and the underlying principles of Electro-hydraulic Circuit Design.
  • Understand the operation of PLC Controlled Hydraulic Systems and their integration with hydraulic circuits.
  • Understand the operation of Proportional Hydraulic Valves and Systems and their advantages.
  • Design, safely construct, and effectively fault find on various hydraulic Circuits.
  • Understand the principles of hydraulic fluid selection based on system requirements and the importance of contamination management.
Maintenance of Mechanical SystemsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers the maintenance function within mechanical systems, including maintenance strategies, lubrication systems, bearing operations, power transmission principles, and sealing techniques. You'll learn to plan, schedule, and carry out maintenance activities to ensure system reliability and availability.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the purpose and importance of the maintenance function within an engineering context
  • Understand the properties and applications of different lubricants and lubrication systems
  • Understand the operation, types, materials, and common causes of failure in bearings
  • Understand the principles of operation and failure patterns of various power transmission systems
  • Understand the different types of seals and the principles of effective sealing
  • Understand and apply appropriate dismantling and re-assembly techniques for mechanical systems
Maintenance of Pneumatic Systems and ComponentsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll study pneumatic systems and components, including the application of Gas Laws, operation of pneumatic and fluid logic components, and high-pressure air production systems. The unit covers system design principles and the function of electro-pneumatic circuits and control devices.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the Gas Laws (Boyle's Law, Charles's Law, Gay-Lussac's Law) and their application to pneumatic systems.
  • Understand the basic principles of high-pressure air production systems, including compressors, dryers, and filters.
  • Understand the operation of pneumatic systems, including pressure regulation, flow control, and actuation.
  • Understand the operation of various pneumatic components, including cylinders, valves, and motors, and identify their corresponding symbols according to relevant standards.
  • Understand the operation of fluid logic components, such as AND, OR, and NOT gates, and the principles of their design in pneumatic circuits.
  • Understand the operation of pneumatic timing circuits, including time delay valves and sequencing circuits for controlling multiple actuators.
  • Understand the operation of cascade circuits in pneumatic circuitry for complex sequential control.
  • Understand the operation of electro-pneumatic components, such as solenoid valves and pressure switches, and the principles of electro-pneumatic circuit design.
  • Understand the operation of PLC-controlled pneumatic systems, including input/output modules and programming techniques.
  • Design, safely construct, and fault-find on pneumatic circuits, applying relevant safety procedures and using appropriate tools and equipment.
Maintenance of Refrigeration SystemsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers the operation and maintenance of refrigeration systems, including single-stage, domestic, commercial, and industrial types. You'll understand key components, refrigerant state changes, and be able to compare different refrigeration systems and their applications.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the operation of a single-stage refrigeration cycle, including the key components and their functions.
  • Understand the operation of a domestic refrigeration system, including its components and control mechanisms.
  • Compare different types of commercial refrigeration systems available, considering their applications, advantages, and disadvantages.
  • Compare the operation of the various types of industrial refrigeration systems available, considering their applications, advantages, and disadvantages.
  • Compare the performance characteristics of the main components, including compressors, condensers, evaporators, and expansion devices, in refrigeration systems.
  • Evaluate the plant-operating conditions by determining the balance points for a typical refrigeration system, analysing factors such as temperature, pressure, and flow rates.
Maintenance of aircraft structuresReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll gain knowledge of maintenance principles for aircraft structures, including preventative and corrective maintenance, removal and replacement of airframe components, and selection of appropriate tooling and engineering drawings for workshop requirements. The unit supports understanding of maintenance documentation.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of maintenance on aircraft structures.
  • Understand the procedures for removing typical airframe components.
  • Understand the procedures for replacing typical airframe components.
  • Understand the principles of selecting tooling in a workshop environment.
  • Understand the principles of selecting engineering drawings appropriate to workshop requirements.
  • Understand how to measure aircraft components to the appropriate degree of accuracy using a range of measuring devices.
Managing Fabrication ActivitiesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers internal and external business factors affecting engineering companies, project planning and control methods, costing techniques, organisational structures, leadership, management, and lean business improvement techniques within fabrication activities.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the internal and external factors that affect business and the economic environment in which an engineering company operates
  • Understand project planning and control methods
  • Understand costing techniques used in engineering activities
  • Understand organisational structures, leadership and management
  • Understand lean business improvement techniques for production and quality
Manual Metal– Arc MMA WeldingReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll develop an understanding of Manual Metal Arc (MMA) welding principles, including arc generation, heat transfer, and weld pool formation. The unit also covers welding metallurgy, health and safety, equipment, consumables, and defect identification.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental principles of Manual Metal Arc (MMA) welding, including arc generation, heat transfer, and weld pool formation.
  • Understand the metallurgical principles associated with welding, including the effects of heat on metal properties and the formation of weld microstructures.
  • Understand the health and safety hazards associated with welding and the appropriate safety precautions to take.
  • Understand the function and operation of the equipment used in Manual Metal Arc (MMA) welding, including power sources, electrode holders, and safety equipment.
  • Understand the types and characteristics of consumables used in Manual Metal Arc (MMA) welding, including electrodes and shielding gases.
  • Understand the welding procedures and methods of testing applied to Manual Metal Arc Welding procedures to ensure weld quality and integrity.
Manufacturing aircraft structuresReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides knowledge of aircraft component manufacturing techniques, preparation of aircraft structures using jigs and fixtures, assembly in accordance with standards, and inspection to ensure conformity with quality and safety requirements.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand aircraft component manufacturing techniques.
  • Prepare aircraft structures for assembly using jigs.
  • Prepare aircraft structures for assembly using fixtures.
  • Prepare aircraft structures for assembly using hole preparation techniques.
  • Assemble aircraft structures in accordance with relevant standards.
  • Inspect aircraft structures to ensure conformity with relevant standards.
Measurement Methods and Control EngineeringReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll explore measurement techniques for electrical components and power in AC circuits, investigate transducers and their data sheets, and understand how transducer signals facilitate measurement and control engineering principles.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand how to obtain the value of unknown components by measurement and calculation
  • Understand how to measure power in an a.c. circuit
  • Understand how to investigate transducers, their purpose and manufacturers data sheets
  • Understand how the signals from transducers enable measurement
  • Understand the basic principles of control engineering methods
  • Understand how to investigate frequency response as an analytical tool
Mechanical Engineering PrinciplesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll develop an understanding of fundamental mechanical engineering principles, including mechanics, thermodynamics, engineering mathematics, and material properties. The unit covers limits and fits terminology and the characteristics of metals, polymers, and ceramics relevant to engineering applications.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental principles of engineering science, including mechanics, thermodynamics, and materials science
  • Understand the fundamental principles of engineering mathematics, including algebra, trigonometry, and calculus
  • Understand the terminology related to limits and fits when applied to engineering assemblies and components
  • Understand the properties of different engineering materials, including their mechanical, thermal, and electrical characteristics
Mechanical Engineering Principles for Aircraft TechniciansReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll study mechanical engineering principles relevant to aircraft technicians, including engineering frameworks, the effects of external forces, and rotational movement. The unit covers stress, strain, and mechanical transmission methods.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand and recognise engineering frameworks and structures and their behaviour under the influence of external forces and loads
  • Understand the effects of external forces on mechanical engineering components
  • Understand the principles and effects of rotational movement of mechanical bodies and systems
  • Understand the means of mechanical power transmission
Mechanised Welding ProcessesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll develop knowledge of mechanised welding processes, including their principles, metallurgy, and health and safety requirements. The unit also covers the use of mechanised welding equipment and consumables to produce quality welds.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of mechanised welding processes
  • Understand the principles of mechanised welding metallurgy
  • Understand the principles of welding health and safety applied to mechanised welding
  • Use mechanised welding equipment
  • Use mechanised welding consumables
  • Produce welds using mechanised welding procedures
Metal Inert Gas/Metal Active Gas MIG/MAG WeldingReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll study the principles of Metal Inert Gas (MIG) and Metal Active Gas (MAG) welding, associated metallurgy, health and safety considerations, equipment, consumables, and welding procedures, including differences between MIG and MAG welding.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of Metal Inert Gas/Metal Active Gas (MIG/MAG) Welding
  • Understand metallurgy associated with welding
  • Understand welding health and safety
  • Understand the equipment associated with Metal Inert Gas/Metal Active Gas (MIG/MAG) Welding
  • Understand the consumables used in Metal Inert Gas/Metal Active Gas (MIG/MAG) Welding
  • Understand welding procedures and methods of testing applied to Metal Inert Gas/Metal Active Gas (MIG/MAG) welding
MicroelectronicsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides an understanding of microelectronics, focusing on microprocessor system components, number systems, and bit arithmetic. You'll explore CPU architecture, communication with memory and peripheral chips, and applications of microprocessor systems.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the components of a microprocessor system.
  • Understand the different types of microprocessor systems available.
  • Understand various number systems used in microelectronics.
  • Understand bit arithmetic and logical operations.
  • Understand the architecture of the Central Processing Unit (CPU).
  • Understand the role of the Central Processing Unit (CPU).
  • Understand how the CPU communicates with memory and other chips.
  • Understand simple timing diagrams.
  • Understand memory addressing.
  • Understand instruction execution.
  • Understand the basic principles of low-level or assembly language programming.
  • Understand the procedure for writing codes to perform simple tasks on a chosen microprocessor system or simulator.
  • Understand the procedure for writing programs with interfacing algorithms to control signals from peripherals connected to the system.
  • Understand the procedure for writing programs with interfacing algorithms to receive signals from peripherals connected to the system.
  • Understand how to produce simple programs for the PIC 16xxx Microcontroller.
Panel Wiring for Engineering ApplicationsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll study safe working practices during the assembly, installation, commissioning, and repair of electrical control panels. The unit covers design procedures, maintenance, refurbishment, and repair techniques, emphasising hazard identification and the use of personal protective equipment.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand how to work safely during the assembly of electrical control panels.
  • Understand how to work safely during the installation of electrical control panels.
  • Understand how to work safely during the commissioning of electrical control panels.
  • Understand how to work safely during the repair of electrical control panels.
  • Understand the procedures for the design of electrical control panels.
  • Understand the procedures for the assembly of electrical control panels.
  • Understand the procedures for the installation of electrical control panels.
  • Understand how to maintain electrical control panels.
  • Understand how to refurbish electrical control panels.
  • Understand how to repair electrical control panels.
  • Understand how to inspect electrical control panels.
  • Understand how to test electrical control panels.
  • Build an electrical control panel to a specified design.
  • Commission an electrical control panel.
Pattern DevelopmentReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit introduces pattern development techniques used in engineering, covering Parallel Line, Radial Line, and Triangulation methods. You'll understand the principles behind these techniques and apply them to determine joint lines using cutting planes and common central spheres.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental principles of Parallel Line development in engineering applications.
  • Understand the fundamental principles of Radial Line development in engineering applications.
  • Understand the fundamental principles of Triangulation development in engineering applications.
  • Understand the principles of using Cutting Planes and Common Central Spheres to determine joint lines in engineering contexts.
Precision GrindingReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll understand precision grinding machines, equipment, and procedures, including work holding and setting methods. The unit covers the construction and use of grinding wheels and associated safety precautions.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the operation of precision grinding machines
  • Understand the use of grinding equipment, procedures and operations
  • Understand the application of work holding equipment and setting procedures used for precision grinding activities
  • Understand the construction and use of precision grinding wheels and associated equipment used in grinding operations
  • Understand the quality requirements for checking precision ground components
Principles of Rotorywing Aircraft FlightReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll study the principles of aerodynamics as applied to rotarywing aircraft, including control, manoeuvrability, flight stability, and the procedures and hazards associated with rotarywing aircraft in flight.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of aerodynamics as applied to rotarywing aircraft
  • Understand rotarywing aircraft control and manoeuvrability
  • Understand rotarywing aircraft flight and stability
  • Understand the procedures and hazards for rotarywing aircraft in flight
Producing Pipework FabricationsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll interpret pipework drawings and specifications, evaluate pipe materials and components, and understand piped systems. The unit also covers the importance of testing, cleaning, protection, and insulation in pipework fabrication.

What you'll be able to do

  • Interpret and evaluate pipework drawings, specifications and sources of regulations
  • Evaluate pipe materials and components for a range of applications
  • Demonstrate an understanding of a range of piped systems
  • Understand the need for the testing and periodic cleaning of pipelines
  • Justify the need for the protection and insulation of pipelines
  • Perform a pipework installation practical task
Producing Plate FabricationsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers the production of plate fabrications, including marking out, mechanical and thermal cutting, and plate forming processes. You'll understand CNC machinery use, assembly methods, and metrology techniques applied to plate fabrication.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the methods used in the production of fabricated parts.
  • Understand marking out techniques applied in plate work.
  • Understand mechanical cutting of plate material.
  • Understand thermal cutting of plate material.
  • Understand plate forming processes.
  • Understand the use of CNC controlled plate processing machinery.
  • Understand methods of assembling plate fabrications.
  • Understand methods of inspecting plate fabrications.
Producing Sheet Metal FabricationsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides knowledge of sheet metal fabrication methods, including marking out, mechanical and thermal cutting, forming processes, CNC machinery use, assembly, and inspection techniques for producing fabricated sheet metal parts.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the methods used in the production of fabricated parts
  • Understand marking out techniques applied to sheet metal
  • Understand mechanical cutting of sheet metal
  • Understand thermal cutting of sheet metal
  • Understand sheet metal forming processes
  • Understand the use of CNC controlled sheet metal processing machinery
  • Understand methods of assembling sheet metal fabrications
  • Understand methods of inspecting sheet metal fabrications
Programmable Logic Controllers PLCsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll explore the internal architecture of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), their applications across industries, number systems used, typical input and output devices, selection and interfacing methods, basic programming techniques, and practical programming skills.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the internal architecture of programmable logic controllers (PLCs), their diverse applications across industries, and the number systems they utilise for data processing and control
  • Understand the typical input and output devices used with PLCs, including sensors, actuators, and communication modules, and how to select and interface them correctly to the PLC system
  • Understand the basic programming techniques used with PLCs, including ladder logic, function block diagrams, and structured text, to create control algorithms
  • Produce a correctly developed program for a PLC to control a specified process, ensuring it meets the required functional specifications, and document the completed program to a satisfactory standard for future reference and maintenance
  • Monitor PLC operation in real-time, force input and output devices for testing purposes, and effectively fault find PLC controlled processes using diagnostic tools and techniques
Programmable Logic Controllers PLCsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll gain knowledge of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), including their internal architecture, applications in industrial automation, and number systems. The unit also covers input and output devices, their selection, interfacing, and basic programming techniques.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the internal architecture of PLCs, their applications in industrial automation, and knowledge of the number systems they use for programming and data representation.
  • Understand the typical input and output devices used with PLCs, their selection criteria based on application requirements, and how they are interfaced to the PLC.
  • Understand the basic programming techniques used with PLCs, including ladder logic, function block diagrams, and structured text.
  • Produce a correctly developed program for a PLC to control a specified process, ensuring it meets the required functionality and safety standards, and document the completed program to a satisfactory standard, including comments and explanations.
  • Monitor PLC operation, force devices for testing and troubleshooting, and fault find PLC controlled processes using diagnostic tools and techniques.
Radio and Radar PrinciplesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers radio and radar principles, including amplitude and frequency modulation techniques, radio transmitter and receiver components, and the operational requirements of primary radar systems. You'll understand pulsed and continuous wave radar principles and their applications.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the theory of amplitude modulation (AM) and frequency modulation (FM) techniques
  • Understand the basic principles of radio transmitters and receivers
  • Understand the operational requirements of primary radar systems
  • Understand the principles of pulsed radar and continuous wave (CW) radar systems
Rail vehicle traction systemsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides an understanding of AC electric power collection and transmission systems in rail vehicles. You'll describe AC traction supply characteristics, pantograph construction and function, and safety systems to prevent overloads.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand AC electric power collection and transmission
  • Describe AC traction supply in terms of the relationship between voltage, current and frequency
  • Explain the construction and function of a typical high speed pantograph
  • Describe what systems are in place to off load and prevent arc dragging at neutral sections
  • Describe how an AC vehicle’s main transformer works and the need for different voltage outputs
  • Draw a schematic of a typical AC traction power control system that shows variations to allow for the control of both AC and DC traction motors
  • Compare and contrast the performance, reliability characteristics and maintenance implications of AC and DC traction motors
  • Describe the bonding and earth return requirements and arrangements for a typical 25kv traction unit
  • Explain the principles of rheostatic/regenerative braking
  • Develop a winterisation instruction for a typical 25Kv AC electric traction unit
  • Understand DC electric power collection and transmission
  • Describe DC traction supply in terms of the relationship between voltage, current and frequency
  • Describe typical 750V DC collection equipment
  • Describe the systems that are in place to off load and prevent arc dragging at section gaps
  • Describe how the speed of DC traction motors is controlled
  • Draw a typical current/ speed/temperature curve for DC traction motors
  • Describe the main performance issues resulting from sub-zero temperatures and snowfall
  • Describe how a traction unit operating on a DC electrified railway may utilise AC traction motors
  • Describe the earth return and bonding requirements for a typical 750V DC traction unit
  • Write a planned maintenance programme for a typical DC traction unit
  • Understand diesel hydraulic and diesel electric power generation and transmission
  • Draw a schematic diesel engine showing all the key internal and external components
  • Explain the operation of a diesel engine
  • Describe how a diesel engines performance is controlled, showing mathematically how operation of the control system produces a variation in power output
  • Describe mathematically how the performance of a turbo charger affects the performance of a diesel engine
  • Describe with the aid of diagrams how a diesel hydraulic power unit operates
  • Describe with the aid of diagrams how a diesel electric power unit operates
  • Write a planned annual preventative maintenance programme for a diesel engine listing the components to be inspected and the periodicity of inspections
Railway Infrastructure - Track engineering maintenanceReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers maintenance techniques applied to plain line railway track, including failure characteristics and methods for maintaining track alignment, gauge, and formation. You'll identify tools, equipment, and safety procedures essential for effective track engineering maintenance.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand maintenance techniques applied to plain line track.
  • Outline the failure characteristics of plain line track.
  • Describe methods applied for the maintenance of track alignment.
  • Explain the methods applied for the maintenance of track gauge.
  • Describe the methods applied for the maintenance of track formation.
  • Describe the methods for the maintenance of track components.
  • Describe the requirements for maintenance of electrical insulation between rails.
  • Describe the maintenance requirements for track in special environments.
  • Describe the maintenance for rail lubricators.
  • Describe the maintenance requirements for Adjustment Switches.
  • Describe the maintenance requirements for Insulated Block Joints.
  • Explain the requirements for the welding of rails.
  • Perform calculations for the stressing of plain line track.
  • Understand maintenance techniques applied to switch and crossing layouts.
  • Outline the failure characteristics of S&C layouts.
  • Evaluate methods applied for the maintenance of S&C alignment.
  • Describe the methods applied for the maintenance of S&C components.
  • Describe the requirements for lubrication of S&C layouts.
  • Describe the requirements for maintenance of electrical insulation between rails.
  • Describe the interface between S&C layouts and point operating mechanisms.
  • Describe the interface between S&C layouts and point heating systems.
  • Understand mechanised maintenance techniques applied to plain line.
  • Evaluate where mechanised maintenance techniques can be utilised to maintain and improve track quality.
  • Review how track geometry data can be interpreted to determine where mechanised maintenance interventions are suitable.
  • Describe the use of grinding trains on plain line maintenance.
  • Describe the planning regime for the mechanised maintenance intervention.
  • Understand maintenance of the off track environment.
  • Describe the maintenance regime applied to lineside vegetation.
  • Explain the effect of infestations on embankment and cutting stability.
  • Describe the process for management of infestation.
  • Outline the effect of severe weather on embankment stability and precautions to be taken.
  • Describe the planning requirements for extreme weather.
  • Outline the fire risks associated with lineside environment and associated control methods.
  • Describe the maintenance methodologies of lineside fencing.
  • Evaluate the potential impact on performance due to trespass and vandalism including accumulation of rubbish.
  • Understand inspection techniques applied in track engineering.
  • Describe the inspection regime mandated by the Infrastructure Controller for plain line.
  • Describe the inspection regime mandated by the Infrastructure Controller for switch and crossing.
  • Describe the inspection regime in place for sidings as mandated by the owner.
  • Carry out an inspection of plain line track, and produce documented evidence.
  • Carry out a detailed inspection of S&C layout and produce documented evidence.
  • Describe the process required for critical rail temperature management.
  • Explain non-destructive testing techniques applied to track engineering.
  • Understand raising and removing speed restrictions following maintenance activities.
  • Explain the engineering specifications relating to ensuring the track is fit for operational purposes following track maintenance activities.
  • Describe the impact of track maintenance activities on operational capability.
  • Describe the compliance requirements set by the infrastructure controller.
  • Outline the defects that can occur following track maintenance.
  • Explain how to determine the safe line speed following track maintenance activities.
  • List the quality control documentation to be produced to demonstrate quality control of track maintenance activities.
  • Explain the requirements for imposing speed restrictions following track maintenance.
  • Install temporary and emergency speed restrictions.
Railway Infrastructure - civil engineeringReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll study civil engineering construction methods for railway infrastructure, including tracks, bridges, and tunnels. The unit covers historical and modern techniques, relevant UK legislation, planning processes, and environmental considerations.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the construction methods employed in building railway infrastructure
  • Outline the legal framework in the UK for the construction of new railways
  • Examine the construction process employed by historic railway builders
  • Explain the constraints inherited from historic railway construction
  • Describe the construction methods employed on construction of high speed lines
  • Describe the methods employed in bridge construction
  • Understand the management of the lineside environment and its effect on track performance
  • Identify suitable fencing solutions dependent upon neighbouring environments
  • Identify the requirements and methods of trackside vegetation management
  • Explain the requirements for rodent control in the track environment and the effect on track performance
  • Understand soil mechanics and the inspection and assessment techniques applied in the railway environment
  • Explain the specification and performance of ballast as part of the track system
  • Describe the construction and performance of subgrade and substructure and the effect on the track system
  • Describe the construction and performance of earthworks and embankments and their effect on track systems
  • Explain the remedial process applied to unstable earthworks or embankments
  • Identify the causes of subterranean fires and their effect on railway infrastructure, and identify potential remedial strategies
  • Evaluate the potential effects of historic mining operations close to the railway infrastructure and the potential effect on track stability
  • Outline the potential effects of surface material extraction on the function of the track system
  • Analyse the requirements for drainage of the railway infrastructure
  • Understand the structures on or around the railway infrastructure and their impact on the track infrastructure
  • Explain the construction of tunnels and the considerations to be taken into effect when planning the maintenance or renewal of track
  • Describe the construction of structures adjacent to or supporting the track infrastructure
  • Understand the clearances that are required for the safe operation of the railway infrastructure
  • Explain the measurement requirements for static load gauge
  • Explain the measurement requirements for kinetic envelope
  • Explain the measurement requirements for the swept envelope
  • Explain the measurement requirements for structure gauge
  • Explain the measurement requirements for platform gauge
Railway Infrastructure - track constructionReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll gain knowledge of railway track construction and renewals, covering planning, risk management, safety systems, resource allocation, and handover procedures. The unit describes stages involved and the importance of effective planning and communication.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the process for track construction and renewals
  • Describe the planning process for track construction and renewals
  • Identify the risks and safety management systems applied to track construction and renewals sites
  • Describe the handover process from maintainer to constructor
  • Explain the requirements for determining bill of quantities for track materials including the ordering and delivery of track materials
  • Explain the methods of achieving plain line construction and renewals in tunnels and viaducts
  • Evaluate the application of on track plant and road rail plant in track construction renewals
  • Explain the process for ballast treatment
  • Identify the requirement for other engineering functions to be involved in track construction and renewals projects
  • Explain the requirements for returning railway to operational service including the hand back process from constructor to maintainer
  • Understand high output techniques applied to track construction and renewals
  • Explain the methods of achieving track construction and renewals using high output techniques
  • Explain the methods of achieving ballast treatment using high output techniques
  • Understand construction and renewals methods for switch and crossing layouts
  • Describe the planning process for S&C construction and renewals including the handover process from maintainer to constructor
  • Measure existing S&C layouts for like for like renewals
  • Interpret engineering drawings relating to S&C construction
  • Describe the process for determining bill of quantities for S&C materials
  • Describe the process for ordering and delivery of S&C materials
  • Identify the risks and safety management systems applied to S&C construction and renewals sites
  • Explain the different methods for construction and renewals of S&C layouts
  • Describe the requirements of other engineering functions involved in S&C construction activity
  • Describe the requirements for returning railway to operational service and the hand back process from constructor to maintainer
  • Understand the quality control methods employed for track construction and renewals
  • Interpret relevant engineering construction standards in relation to construction and renewals activities
  • Evaluate the impact of construction and renewals activities on track drainage systems
  • Describe how progress of track construction and renewals activities is monitored
  • Detail the quality control methods used to ensure construction and renewals activities comply with design requirements
  • Measure structure gauge and track geometry
  • Describe the relationship between track geometry and traction supply geometry
  • Perform calculations for the stressing of plain line
  • List the requirements for engineering records to be produced during and following track construction and renewals activities
  • Understand raising and removing speeds following track renewal activity
  • Describe the engineering specifications relating to ensuring the track is fit for operational purposes following track construction and renewals
  • Evaluate the impact of track construction and renewals on operational capability
  • Explain the compliance requirements set by the infrastructure controller
  • List the defects that can occur following track construction and renewals
  • Explain how to determine the safe line speed following track construction and renewals activities
  • Describe the quality control documentation to be produced to demonstrate quality control of track construction and renewals activities
  • Describe the requirements for imposing speed restrictions following track construction and renewals
  • Apply temporary and emergency speed restriction indicators for train drivers
Railway Infrastructure - track engineeringReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
It teaches you to understand the design, construction, and operation of plain line track in railway infrastructure, including track components, construction methods, application of Hooke's Law, and operational requirements for track maintenance.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the design, construction and operation of plain line track
  • Identify the components utilised in the construction of plain line track systems
  • Describe the construction of plain line track systems
  • Apply Hooke’s Law for calculating the requirement for restoration of stress in plain line
  • Explain the requirements of track design for the application of transitions and curves
  • Describe the wheel/rail interface and point of contact
  • Understand the design, construction and operation of switch and crossing layouts
  • Identify the components utilised in the construction of switch & crossing systems
  • Describe the construction of switch and crossing systems
  • Describe the materials used in switch and crossing units
  • Identify the types of switch and crossing layouts
  • Explain the operation of switch and crossing systems
  • Explain the geometry required for switch and crossing systems
  • Explain the operational characteristics of point operating system
  • Understand the common failure modes of track engineering systems
  • Describe potential failure modes of track components associated with plain line track
  • Describe potential failure modes caused by track formation deterioration
  • Describe potential failure modes of switch and crossing layouts
  • Understand the effects of abnormal conditions on the performance of the track system
  • Describe the effects of abnormal weather conditions
  • Describe the effect of leaf fall and uncontrolled lineside vegetation
  • Describe the effects of lineside vegetation on signal sighting and potential damage to overhead line equipment
  • Explain the effect of abnormal weather conditions on planned engineering activity
  • Understand the interface between track engineering systems and other railway engineering functions
  • Describe the basic principles of electricity as applied to railway infrastructure
  • Describe the fundamental principles of railway signalling
  • Explain the operation of points and point detection systems
  • Describe the relationship of track geometry with overhead line geometry and the interface between the two
Railway Infrastructure – mechanical engineering principlesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides an understanding of fundamental engineering science principles relevant to railway infrastructure. You'll study mechanics, thermodynamics, materials science, and perform calculations related to heat, strength, forces, friction, work, and power.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamentals of engineering science.
  • Carry out calculations involving heat.
  • Carry out calculations involving strength of materials.
  • Carry out calculations involving forces.
  • Carry out calculations involving friction.
  • Carry out calculations involving work and power.
  • Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the ultimate tensile strength.
  • Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the yield point.
  • Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the limit of proportionality.
  • Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the elastic limit.
  • Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the ultimate load.
  • Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the breaking load.
  • Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the percentage elongation.
  • Carry out a tensile test on materials to determine the percentage reduction in area.
  • Carry out calculations involving work done.
  • Carry out calculations involving power.
  • Carry out calculations involving electromotive force.
  • Carry out calculations involving resistance.
  • Identify the primary units of the SI system; length, mass, time, temperature, capacity.
  • Identify the derived units of the SI system; force, stress, density, conductivity, power, current, voltage and resistance.
  • Carry out calculations involving basic hydraulic principles.
  • Understand the fundamentals of engineering mathematics.
  • Solve simple, practical algebraic problems.
  • Solve practical problems using trigonometry.
  • Solve practical problems involving areas, perimeters and volumes.
  • Present and interpret information using graphical and statistical means.
  • Use vulgar fractions and decimals.
  • Use ratios, proportions and percentages.
  • Use positive and negative numbers.
  • Solve simple equations by substitution.
  • Transpose given formulae.
  • Solve linear equations.
  • Solve simultaneous equations.
  • Use trigonometry to solve practical problems associated with measurement and inspection.
  • Calculate the area and perimeter of common plane figures.
  • Calculate the volume of common prismoidal shapes.
  • Present and interpret information using graphs and charts.
  • Present and interpret basic statistical data.
  • Understand the fundamentals of applied mechanics.
  • Describe the principle of equilibrium.
  • Calculate forces acting upon a simple structure in equilibrium.
  • Use graphical methods to describe forces acting upon a simple structure in equilibrium.
  • Explain the principle of framed structures.
  • Calculate the forces acting on a framed structure.
  • Use graphical methods to describe forces acting upon a simple structure.
  • Describe the principles of shearing forces and bending moments.
  • Calculate shearing force.
  • Calculate bending moments.
  • Use graphical methods to describe shearing force and bending moments.
  • Understand the principles of stress and strain.
  • Calculate shear stress.
  • Calculate tensile strain.
  • Calculate compressive strain.
  • Describe the moduli of elasticity for a range of engineering materials used in railway engineering.
  • Understand the properties of engineering materials.
  • Describe the term atomic structure – the atom, electron, proton and neutron. The arrangement of atoms defining a substance; solid, liquid or gas.
  • Explain the forms of bonding: Covalent, Ionic and Metallic.
  • Define the crystalline structure of metals; lattice structures: Body-centred cubic, Face-centred cubic and Close-packed hexagonal.
  • Explain how lattice and grain structures arise; solidification and growth of dendrites.
  • Define the term re-crystallisation.
  • Describe the effects of heat treatment and hot and cold working on the crystal structure.
  • Describe the relationship between the solidification process and a cooling curve.
  • Recognise the cooling curves for a pure metal and an alloy.
  • Recognise an equilibrium diagram.
  • Illustrate the structure, properties, and uses of steels.
  • Describe the principal methods of testing for hardness.
  • Explain the structure of polymers; polymer chains and their effect on the polymer.
  • Describe the effects of temperature on the mechanical properties of polymers.
  • Define the properties and uses of common polymers; Thermoplastics; Thermosetting Polymers; Elastomers.
Railway infrastructure - Function and Characteristics of Railway Signalling SystemsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit focuses on the function and characteristics of railway signalling systems, including their role in safe and efficient train operation, network capacity, components, lineside equipment, historical development, and key stakeholders.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the role of rail signalling within the railway system
  • Identify the different components of a signalling system
  • Identify the lineside equipment that interface with signalling systems
  • Describe the historical development of signalling systems
  • Explain the purpose and scope of a signalling system within the rail system
  • Interpret how the human-machine interfaces occur in relation to the signalling system, the risks present and how risk is mitigated
  • Explain how interface is maintained between lineside and signalling systems components
  • Understand how signalling systems provide safety on the railway
  • Identify the different types of mechanical and electrical interlocking used in signalling systems
  • Explain the different types of interlocking used in signalling systems
  • Explain how the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) works in terms of controlling the speed of a train
  • Define how safety is maintained if a train passes through a red signal
  • Explain how high-integrity systems ensure the signalling system provides safety
  • Explain how the installation, testing and commissioning of a signalling system ensures fitness for purpose of the system
  • Explain the importance of maintenance and repair in ensuring the signalling system is safe
  • Understand the role of block sections within the signalling system
  • Draw a diagram of a block section for a given signalling system
  • Classify the types of block section used on the rail infrastructure
  • Explain how safety is maintained within a block section
  • Explain the consequences of failure of the signalling system
  • Interpret how the risk of failure is mitigated for a given signalling application
  • Understand how documentation, competence management systems and licensing is used in supporting signalling systems and how it is controlled
  • Describe the role of The Institution of Railway Signal Engineers (IRSE), licensing system
  • Describe the different categories of licences required to work on signalling systems
  • Describe the sources and types of information used in relation to signalling systems
  • Interpret signalling abbreviations, symbols and the signalling alphabet
  • List the types of documents used in signalling and methods of document control applied
Railway infrastructure - Railway Signalling Systems Testing and MaintenanceReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll explore railway signalling systems, focusing on the sub-systems and components of main lineside equipment. The unit includes installation, maintenance, and testing procedures for different types of lineside equipment and their applications.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the sub-systems and components of the main line-side equipment
  • Identify the sub systems and components of the main lineside equipment types
  • Carry out installation, maintenance or testing on two different types of line side equipment
  • Describe the applications of lineside equipment
  • Describe the principal elements of construction, design and implementation of a signalling system
  • Interpret how a change in the signalling system has effects that may impact on related systems
  • Classify the different types and sizes of cables used on the infrastructure and applications of each
  • Use railway signalling maintenance and testing equipment
  • Carry out testing on signalling equipment
  • Use three different types of railway signalling installation, maintenance or testing equipment
  • Classify the types and purpose of the equipment used in railway installation, maintenance or testing
  • Explain the importance of the calibration of maintenance and testing equipment
  • Describe precautions in use and care of the equipment used in railway maintenance and testing
  • Understand how safe working procedures apply to all aspects of signalling equipment operations
  • Demonstrate the need for safe methods of working when working on signalling equipment
  • Explain the need for testing methods and records of work
  • Describe the importance of personal accountability when working on signalling equipment
  • Understand the stages of the design process, abbreviations, symbols and plans used on the signalling system
  • Describe the stages of a signalling system design process for a given application
  • Identify the component parts of a control table and the sources from which these are drawn
  • Describe signalling abbreviations, symbols and the signalling alphabet
  • Identify signalling bonding and equipment circuit plans
  • Describe the different ways signalling information is given from the designers to installers, testers and maintainers
Railway infrastructure - electrical engineeringReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll study direct current (DC) circuit theory as applied in railway infrastructure, including voltage, current, resistance calculations, measurements, capacitor behaviour, and relevant laws such as Ohm's and Kirchhoff's laws.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand circuit theory to determine voltage, current and resistance in direct current (DC) circuits
  • Explain DC circuit theory
  • Describe DC networks
  • Carry out measurements in DC circuits
  • Understand DC circuits containing capacitors and carry out measurements and calculations
  • Describe the types of capacitors
  • Explain the charging and discharging of a capacitor
  • Describe a DC network that includes a capacitor
  • Understand the principles and properties of magnetism
  • Describe magnetic fields
  • Explain the principles of electromagnetic induction
  • Understand single phase alternating current (AC) theory, and the application in railway electrical supply systems
  • Explain single phase alternating current (AC) circuit theory
  • Describe three phase alternating current (AC) supply
  • Explain the operation of transformers
  • Describe the generation and distribution of electricity to the rail infrastructure
  • Carry out measurements of an alternating current (AC) circuit
Railway infrastructure - overhead line equipment constructionReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll gain an understanding of overhead line equipment (OLE) construction within railway infrastructure, covering planning processes, risk and safety management, engineering specifications, and the preparation of bills of quantities.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the process for OLE construction
  • Describe the planning process for OLE Construction
  • Explain the risks and safety management systems applied to OLE construction sites
  • Interpret engineering specifications for OLE construction activities
  • Determine the bill of quantities for OLE materials
  • Describe the ordering and delivery of OLE materials
  • Describe the application of on track plant in OLE construction
  • Describe the application of road rail plant equipment in OLE construction
  • Explain the requirements for other engineering functions to be involved in OLE construction
  • List the methods employed in progress reporting for OLE construction sites
  • Identify the requirements for returning the railway to operational service
  • Describe the hand back process from constructor to maintainer
  • Understand the installation techniques applied to OLE construction
  • Describe the construction methods for foundations and erections for plain line OLE installations
  • Describe the construction methods for small parts steelwork applied in plain line OLE installations
  • Describe the construction methods for the installation of wires applied in OLE installations
  • Describe the construction methods for sectioning, insulation, registrations and in span components applied in OLE installations
  • Describe the installation, enhancement and renewal of earthing and bonding in OLE installations
  • Describe the use of high output equipment in the installation of OLE systems
  • Understand the testing and commissioning requirements for OLE installations
  • Explain the process required to secure OLE out of use to enable non electric traction systems or restricted running following construction work on complex OLE systems
  • Explain the process required for bringing the OLE into service to enable electric traction running following construction of complex OLE systems
Railway infrastructure - overhead line equipment maintenanceReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll understand the design and construction of foundations and main steelwork for overhead line equipment (OLE) systems in railway infrastructure, considering soil characteristics, design analysis, construction methods, and operational requirements.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the design and construction of foundations and main steelwork associated with OLE systems
  • Describe the different soil characteristics that could typically be found on OLE installations and the implications for the design of foundations
  • Analyse the design of foundations for OLE construction and the factors that influence the choice of foundation type
  • Interpret the industry standard drawings (e.g. OLEMI) for foundations and main steelwork
  • Understand the design, construction and operation of small parts steelwork associated with OLE system
  • Interpret the construction drawings associated with small parts steel used in the construction of OLE systems
  • Identify the types and functions of a variety of small part steel components associated with OLE construction
  • Describe the types of materials used in the construction of cantilevers and other OLE components and the types of fixings used
  • Identify the types of insulators and the function of insulators used in OLE construction
  • Identify the potential failure points associated with small parts steel and the potential service disruptions that can occur
  • Understand the design, construction and operation of wires and cables associated with OLE systems and the interface with the pantograph
  • Identify the types of and uses cables and wires used in OLE construction
  • Explain the construction arrangements for cables and wires used in OLE construction
  • Describe the tensioning arrangements for contact wire
  • Describe the overlap arrangements for contact wires
  • Describe the requirements for turnouts wiring for OLE systems
  • Describe the requirements for OLE Geometry
  • Describe the construction drawing used for cables and wires
  • Describe the wire run drawing
  • Understand the design and construction, and operation of in-line components associated with OLE systems
  • Describe the types of components and their function used in the construction of OLE Section Insulators
  • Identify the types of components used in the construction of OLE Neutral Sections, describe operational function, and the mechanical and electrical properties
  • Explain the requirement for Automatic Power Controller (APC Magnets)
  • Interpret the construction drawings associated with in line components used in the construction of OLE systems
  • Understand the design requirements for OLE geometry and electrical clearances
  • Explain the operation of the pantograph
  • Describe the requirements of OLE geometry
  • Interpret the construction drawings for heights and staggers
  • Describe the requirements for electrical clearance
  • Describe the design requirements for electrical clearance
  • Understand the requirements for earthing and bonding associated with OLE systems
  • Describe the requirements for provision of traction current return paths
  • Understand the requirements for the provision of protection from fault currents
  • Explain the terms, touch potential and step potential
  • Describe the requirements for the bonding of lineside equipment
  • Explain the operation of train detection systems used by signal engineers
  • Identify the safety requirements for earthing of OLE systems to facilitate engineering operations
  • Interpret bonding diagrams
  • Understand the interface between OLE engineering and other railway engineering systems and operational equipment
  • Describe the interface between OLE systems and track engineering systems
  • Describe the interface between OLE systems and signalling systems
  • Describe the interface between OLE systems and telecommunication systems
  • Describe the interface between OLE systems and fixed plant and equipment
  • Describe the interface between OLE systems and lineside structures
  • Describe the interface between the OLE contact wire and the pantograph
Rotorywing Aircraft Gas Turbine EnginesReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides an understanding of gas turbine engines used in rotary-wing aircraft, covering operating principles, construction, and maintenance. You'll study engine components, systems for ignition, fuel, lubrication, cooling, and starting procedures.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental operating principles of typical gas turbine engines used in rotary-wing aircraft.
  • Understand the constructional details and component arrangements of typical gas turbine engines.
  • Understand the purpose, operation, and maintenance of systems used for ignition, fuel delivery, lubrication, cooling, and starting of gas turbine engines.
  • Understand the range of maintenance operations that are typically carried out on installed gas turbine engines, including inspection, servicing, and repair.
Rotorywing Aircraft Structures and TransmissionsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides knowledge of rotorywing aircraft structural components and transmission systems. You'll understand maintenance philosophies, materials used, and the construction of helicopter rotor blades.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the function of various rotorywing aircraft structural components
  • Understand the principles of maintenance philosophies when applied to rotorywing aircraft structures
  • Understand the operation of rotorywing aircraft transmission systems
  • Understand the methods used in helicopter rotor blade construction
Rotorywing Aircraft systemsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll study rotary-wing aircraft systems, including main and tail rotor controls, fuel systems, hydraulics, and flight controls. The unit also covers assembly, dismantling, and handling procedures for rotary-wing aircraft components.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the operation and control mechanisms of main and tail rotor systems in rotary-wing aircraft.
  • Understand the design, components, and operation of rotary-wing aircraft fuel systems, including fuel storage, delivery, and management.
  • Understand the principles, components, and operation of rotary-wing aircraft hydraulic systems and flight controls.
  • Understand the correct procedures for the assembly and dismantling of rotary-wing aircraft components and systems.
  • Understand the correct handling procedures for rotary-wing aircraft, including ground handling, taxiing, and pre-flight checks.
Servicing Physiological Monitoring and Infusion EquipmentReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll gain knowledge of servicing physiological monitoring and infusion equipment, including maintenance activities, working protocol development, and the operation of infusion devices, gas delivery systems, and suction equipment. The unit emphasises adherence to manufacturer guidelines and safe servicing practices.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand how to carry out maintenance activities appropriate for the physiological monitoring and infusion equipment to be serviced and maintained
  • Understand how to produce a working protocol for the servicing and maintenance of a medical device
  • Understand the principles of operation and maintenance of infusion devices
  • Understand the principles of operation and maintenance of gas delivery units and systems
  • Understand the principles of operation and maintenance of suction devices and systems
  • Understand the principles of operation and maintenance of syringe pumps
Servicing cardiovascular equipmentReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides knowledge of safe working practices when servicing cardiovascular equipment, including scheduled maintenance, electrical safety, manual handling, and COSHH regulations. You'll understand the principles of operation and components used in cardiovascular devices and apply appropriate servicing techniques.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand safe working practices when servicing cardiovascular equipment, including electrical safety, manual handling, and COSHH regulations.
  • Understand the importance of carrying out scheduled servicing according to manufacturer's recommendations and relevant standards.
  • Understand the principles of operation of a range of cardiovascular equipment, including treadmills, exercise bikes, elliptical trainers, and rowing machines.
  • Understand the function of the components and sub-assemblies used in cardiovascular equipment, such as motors, sensors, control panels, and drive systems.
  • Use appropriate tools and test equipment, such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, and pressure gauges, to undertake servicing activities.
  • Carry out routine servicing activities on a range of cardiovascular equipment, including cleaning, lubrication, adjustment, and calibration.
  • Decide on appropriate action if problems are found during servicing, such as component replacement or repair.
  • Identify when equipment is not functioning correctly and identify likely fault causes using diagnostic techniques and fault-finding charts.
  • Replace a range of components and sub-assemblies, such as belts, bearings, sensors, and control panels, following manufacturer's instructions.
  • Recognise the organisational and legal implications of the need for completing records of service work, including maintenance logs, fault reports, and parts lists.
  • Complete records of service work accurately and legibly using paper-based and/or computer-based systems.
  • Describe the operation of general power supplies used in cardiovascular equipment, including AC/DC converters and voltage regulators.
  • Carry out servicing activities on general power supplies, such as testing voltage levels, replacing fuses, and checking for overheating.
Servicing medical therapeutic equipmentReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides knowledge of servicing medical therapeutic equipment, focusing on laser procedure setup protocols within clinical environments. You'll understand safety guidelines, hazard identification, and mitigation measures essential for maintaining safe working practices during service activities.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the established protocol for setting up a laser procedure for clinical use, adhering to local rules and safety guidelines
  • Explain the importance of using defined techniques and procedures when carrying out service activities, while maintaining a safe working environment
  • Understand the procedures for servicing and maintaining audiometry screening equipment
  • Understand the principles and operation of nerve stimulation devices and interferential units
  • Understand the principles and operation of phototherapy lamps
Sheet Metalwork TechnologyReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides knowledge of sheet metalwork technology, focusing on work organisation and management, pattern development, cutting and forming techniques, assembly processes, and finishing methods. You'll understand the principles required to manage and execute sheet metalwork operations effectively.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of work organisation and management within a sheet metalwork environment.
  • Understand the processes involved in pattern development for sheet metal components.
  • Understand the various cutting and forming techniques used in sheet metalwork.
  • Understand the different assembly processes employed in sheet metalwork fabrication.
  • Understand the range of finishing techniques applied to sheet metal products.
Shipbuilding OperationsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides knowledge of shipbuilding operations, including interpreting ship drawings and specifications, lofting, computer-aided engineering, ship types and design features, structural strength, and quality control during assembly and fabrication.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand ships' drawings, specifications and procedures
  • Understand lofting, drawing and computer aided engineering techniques used in shipbuilding
  • Understand ship types and appropriate design features for each type
  • Understand the structure and strength of a ship
  • Understand the monitoring and controlling of assembly and erection of fabricated units
  • Understand the construction of fore and after end units
Specialised MachiningReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll explore specialised machining processes such as electro-discharge machining (EDM), electro-chemical machining, laser cutting and welding, electron beam cutting and welding, water jet and abrasive jet cutting, and super finishing techniques. The unit covers principles, applications, and process characteristics.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the process of Electro Discharge Machining using plain or shaped electrodes.
  • Understand the process of Electro Discharge Machining using wire or tape electrodes.
  • Understand the process of Electro-Chemical Machining, using plain or shaped electrodes.
  • Understand the use of lasers for thermal cutting and welding.
  • Understand electron beam cutting and welding.
  • Understand water jet and abrasive jet cutting and machining.
  • Understand super finishing processes.
  • Understand twist drilling systems used in machining engineering materials.
  • Understand tubular drilling systems used in machining engineering materials.
Tool making/ Presswork/Extrusion DesignReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers the design processes specific to tool making, extrusion dies, and press tools. You'll understand material selection factors, the influence of manufacturing and economic considerations on design, and the design of jigs and fixtures.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the design process relating to tool making, extrusion dies and press tools
  • Understand the factors influencing the choice of material used within a design
  • Understand how manufacturing processes and economic factors influence design
  • Understand factors affecting the design of jigs, fixtures, extrusion dies and press tools for the manufacture of simple components
  • Understand the safety aspects of designs relating to jigs and fixtures, extrusion dies and press tools
  • Make a simple jig or fixture or extrusion die or press tool
Traction and rolling suspension, wheelsets and brakes and associated systemsReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll explore the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock suspension and tilt systems, differentiating between primary and secondary suspension types. The unit includes the operation, control, and potential failure modes of high-speed train tilt systems.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock suspension and tilt systems.
  • Differentiate between the different suspension systems fitted to trains in relation to their purpose.
  • Describe the operation and control of a high speed train tilt system, list potential failure modes and the mitigation that may be applied in the event of failure.
  • Illustrate mathematically how failed suspension increases damage to both track and vehicles.
  • Write a planned maintenance programme for a typical high speed train suspension and tilt mechanism.
  • Compare conventional body/bogie mountings.
  • Write a winterisation procedure for a high speed train tilt system.
  • Understand the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock braking systems.
  • Describe a typical air/electric brake system.
  • Compare and contrast tread brake, cheek disc and inboard disc braking systems.
  • Describe how a variable load valve works and what symptoms would become apparent in the event of failure.
  • Describe the various types of friction pad in use on main line traction and rolling stock.
  • Describe with the aid of schematics the operation of a typical wheel slide prevention system.
  • Describe the safety systems that can take over the operation of a train braking system in the event of operator error.
  • Describe why automatic sanding is necessary.
  • Write a planned maintenance programme for a typical high speed train braking system.
  • Understand the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock axles, wheels and bearings.
  • Draw a typical wheelset, identifying all components.
  • List the different types of wheel profile in common use on the network, identifying typical duties and the rationale for selection.
  • Write a wheelset and axle bearing maintenance policy.
  • Describe the process of changing out a wheelsets as routine maintenance, identifying all risks associated with the operation.
  • Describe in situ test and inspection methodology for traction and rolling stock wheelsets.
  • Discuss the implications of a ‘flat’ on a wheelset.
  • Discuss ways in which wheelset life may be extended, listing determining factors.
  • Describe the criticality of the wheel rail interface and its implications for track wear and damage.
Tungsten Inert Gas TIG Welding ProcessReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers the Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding process, including its principles, associated metallurgy, health and safety, equipment, consumables, welding procedures, and the effects of heat on metals and their microstructures.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding
  • Understand metallurgy associated with welding
  • Understand welding health and safety requirements
  • Understand equipment associated with Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding
  • Understand the consumables used in Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding
  • Understand welding procedures and methods of testing applied to Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG)
Workplace improvementReal unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll carry out workplace improvement activities by identifying and eliminating waste, applying visual management principles, and using standard company documentation. The unit includes planning, implementation, and evaluation of improvement initiatives.

What you'll be able to do

  • Carry out a workplace improvement activity.
  • Understand the methods used to identify and eliminate waste.
  • Understand the principles of visual management.
  • Understand the role of standard company documentation.

The honest bit

You’ve started things before

Most courses were built for a room full of people who aren’t you. A cohort moves on whether or not your week allowed it, and by the third week the thing you’re behind on becomes the reason you stop opening it.

There’s no cohort here, and no timetable to fall behind. Before anything starts, Zavmo asks when you’re sharpest and how long you can realistically sit down for, then builds the sessions around those answers. A bad fortnight changes your pace. It doesn’t put you behind.

And you only pay once you start learning. Searching and planning are free, and you can cancel any time — so the cost of finding out is an afternoon, not a year.

Your passport

Every credit is a stamp you keep

Level 3 credits are regulated. 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’ve earned and what’s next.

Advanced Manufacture Techniques – Computer Numerical Control –CNC-Advanced Manufacturing TechniquesAdvanced MillingAdvanced Personal Computer PC MaintenanceAdvanced TurningAircraft Maintenance and Manufacturing Engineering ProceduresAnalogue ElectronicsAnalogue systems engineering

Each stamp is a real unit registered against this qualification.

Who’d teach you this

The Evidence Evaluator

Assessor

Helps you show what you can actually do, gathering the evidence that proves it as you learn.

Meet all twelve tutors

Where this connects

Where these credits take you

A qualification is never a dead end here. See the jobs its credits open, the national occupational standards its units map to, and the future skills they quietly build.

See Your Progress GrowIllustration
EAL Level 3 Certificate in Engineering Technologies
  • Access Overhead Line Equipment Construction Sites
  • Assembling aircraft airframe ancillary components
  • Assembling aircraft electrical components
  • Carrying out maintenance on industrial refrigeration equipment
  • Complete testing, gauging and acceptance of overhead line equipment
  • ECIICESE03 Inspect, test and commission electrical installations
  • Install Advanced Manufacturing Technology
  • Install Overhead Line Equipment Main Steelwork
This is your Mind Palace on learn.zavmo.ai. Every skill above comes from this role's own record, not an example borrowed from another job. A node lights up when you evidence it, and what you build stays yours between jobs. That is the part a course cannot do.

Where this can lead

Building Services Engineer

Your journey in building services can take you in many exciting directions. We're here to support your growth, whether that's becoming a highly specialised technical guru or stepping into leadership roles. The most important thing is your commitment to learning, safety, and keeping our operations running like clockwork. The future of our buildings depends on it.

See the whole journey →

Showing 6 roles, drawn from 26 job records mapped to this qualification.

Skills it covers

What the job actually needs. These are the standards the units are built against, in the words employers and awarding bodies already use for the work itself.

Access Overhead Line Equipment Construction SitesAssembling aircraft airframe ancillary componentsAssembling aircraft electrical componentsCarrying out maintenance on industrial refrigeration equipmentComplete testing, gauging and acceptance of overhead line equipmentECIICESE03 Inspect, test and commission electrical installationsInstall Advanced Manufacturing TechnologyInstall Overhead Line Equipment Main SteelworkInstall Overhead Line Equipment Sectioning, Insulation, Registration and In-span ComponentsInstall electrical cabling and wiring systemsInstall equipment and associated systems within healthcareMaintain industrial refrigeration equipment used in food and drink operationsMaintain industrial refrigeration equipment used in food and drink operationsMaintenance and repair of refrigeration and air conditioning hard facilities systemsOperate Advanced Manufacturing TechnologyPosition and install electrical equipment and systems in engineering construction plantService and maintain refrigeration systemsServicing cardiovascular equipment+2 more

How you’ll actually learn this

One-to-one, on your own real work

A qualification is usually something done to you: sit the class, sit the exam, hope it sticks. Here it’s the opposite. You learn it one-to-one with a companion, on your own real work, and you keep going until you can use it, not just recall it.

One-to-one, on your real workNo lectures, no past-papers. Every unit is practised on the actual tasks your job throws at you, a tutor beside you, not a video in front of you.
Taught to the top, not the testMost courses stop at remembering. Your companion keeps climbing: analysing, judging, creating. That’s the part a machine can’t do for you.
Credits you keep, a map that continuesEvery unit is regulated and yours for good. The day you finish, Zavmo already knows the next role your new credits open.
Advanced Manufacture Techniques – Computer Numerical Control –CNC-Level 3

Applied to your work in any of these jobs

This unit introduces the fundamental concepts of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) technology, including machine tool design, tooling and work holding, part programming, and operational control. Learners will understand CNC machine components, axes of movement, and the importance of machine setting for accurate manufacturing.

How the thinking builds
  1. Remember
  2. Understand
  3. Apply
  4. Analyse
  5. Evaluate
  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.
Your PlanIllustration

Built for EAL Level 3 Certificate in Engineering Technologies

85 units in this credential, in the order it lists them, awarded by Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited.

  1. Advanced Manufacture Techniques – Computer Numerical Control –CNC-
  2. Advanced Manufacturing Techniques
  3. Advanced Milling
  4. Advanced Personal Computer PC Maintenance
  5. Advanced Turning
  6. Aircraft Maintenance and Manufacturing Engineering Procedures

and 79 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.

One to one, not one to many

No two people run this the same way

A course is written once and handed to everyone. This is assembled around you, and keeps changing as it learns you. Five things it reads, and what each one changes.

  1. Your actual work Every unit is taught against a live piece of your own work, not a worked example from a textbook.
  2. What you already know The first conversation finds your starting point, so you skip what you can already do and spend the time on what you cannot.
  3. The conditions you learn under Not a learning-styles quiz. The evidence does not support those. The dimensions the research does back, read once and used to shape the plan.
  4. How far you got last time It picks up mid-thought. The tutor knows what you said, what you struggled with, and what it asked you to try.
  5. Which tutor suits the moment Twelve of them, each for a different kind of thinking. The one who walks you through a first idea is not the one who stress-tests it.

See how you learn, free. Eight questions, no sign-up. A directional taster; the diagnostic inside Zavmo goes deeper and keeps adapting.

Why it sticks

Most courses stop at remembering

There’s a well-known ladder of how deeply you learn something, called Bloom’s Taxonomy. Most courses get you up the first two rungs: you remember some facts, you pass a test, you forget it. Real skill lives at the top. Judging, deciding, creating. And this isn’t a generic ladder: every rung has a named Zavmo tutor who walks you up it.

  1. 6CreateThe Creative Catalyst
  2. 5EvaluateThe Evidence Evaluator
  3. 4AnalyseThe Analyst
  4. 3ApplyThe Coach
  5. 2UnderstandThe Connector
  6. 1RememberThe Builder

Where most courses leave you Where Zavmo takes you

Why this matters: AI can already remember and understand for you. What it can’t do is take your real problem and judge the right call. So the only learning worth paying for is the learning that takes you to the top. That’s exactly what a tutor doing it with you, on your real work, is for.

The value

Why the companion is worth £70 a month

You’re not paying for the units. They’re regulated, and the same wherever you earn them. You’re paying for the one thing that decides whether you actually get there: a companion that makes them stick, on your real work.

That is one-to-one on this qualification, every day, on the work you already do, for £70 a month. Your first module is free, so you can see the teaching before you pay for any of it. Billed monthly, cancel any time and billing stops.

Earned on your own work, taught to the top.

Everything you just read, learned one-to-one on the job you already do. Your first module is free, so you can see the teaching before you pay for any of it.

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.