How you’d get it

How you’d get this certificate

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

More on studying for a qualification

01What it is

BTEC Nationals are level 3 vocational qualifications that provide specialist, work-related learning in a range of sectors.

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

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

Free first step

Try a free Future Fluency lesson first

The free part is a Future Fluency lesson on using AI at work. It is not part of this qualification. Next, a free account. We build your plan for this qualification as you set up. Teaching towards this qualification begins when you subscribe.

No card · Nothing to commit to

02The units

What each unit actually teaches you to do

Additive Manufacturing Processes Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
This unit introduces additive manufacturing processes, technologies, and materials. You'll prepare 3D models, operate, and maintain additive manufacturing equipment, understanding the advantages and limitations compared to traditional methods.

What you'll be able to do

  • Describe the principles of additive manufacturing processes
  • Identify different types of additive manufacturing technologies
  • Prepare 3D models for additive manufacturing
  • Operate and maintain additive manufacturing equipment
Applied Commercial and Quality Principles in Engineering Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
This unit covers commercial operations and quality assurance principles within engineering. You'll apply quality practices, analyse commercial impacts on projects, and understand continuous improvement and regulatory compliance.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of commercial operations within an engineering context
  • Apply quality assurance principles and practices in engineering activities
  • Analyse the impact of commercial decisions on engineering projects
  • Evaluate the importance of continuous improvement in engineering quality
  • Understand the role of regulatory bodies and standards in engineering
Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
It teaches you to understand and apply calculus concepts such as differentiation and integration to solve engineering problems. You'll model and analyse engineering systems and interpret results from calculus-based calculations.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental concepts of calculus
  • Apply calculus techniques to solve engineering problems
  • Differentiate and integrate mathematical functions relevant to engineering
  • Use calculus to model and analyse engineering systems
  • Interpret and evaluate the results of calculus-based calculations
  • Apply calculus to optimise engineering designs and processes
Computer Aided Design in Engineering Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
You'll understand Computer Aided Design (CAD) principles and techniques for engineering. The unit develops skills to create, interpret, and analyse 2D and 3D engineering drawings using CAD software, and manage CAD files effectively.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of Computer Aided Design (CAD) in engineering
  • Use CAD software to create 2D and 3D engineering drawings
  • Apply CAD techniques to design engineering components and assemblies
  • Interpret and analyse engineering drawings produced using CAD software
  • Manage and store CAD files effectively within an organisation
Computer Programming Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
You'll gain foundational knowledge of computer programming concepts and practices. The unit covers design, development, testing, debugging, and documentation of computer programmes using appropriate programming languages.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental concepts of computer programming
  • Design and develop computer programs using appropriate programming languages
  • Test and debug computer programs effectively
  • Document computer programs according to industry standards
Delivery of Engineering Processes Safely as a Team Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
You'll develop knowledge and skills to deliver engineering processes safely as part of a team. The unit covers safety legislation, hazard identification, safe working practices, and effective teamwork and communication in engineering environments.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the importance of safety in engineering processes
  • Identify potential hazards and risks associated with engineering activities
  • Apply safe working practices and procedures in an engineering environment
  • Demonstrate effective teamwork and communication skills in engineering projects
  • Contribute to the safe delivery of engineering processes as part of a team
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of team working in ensuring safety
Electrical Machines Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
You'll understand the operation, construction, and characteristics of electrical machines including DC, AC synchronous, and induction machines. The unit covers performance evaluation, speed and torque control methods, and maintenance requirements.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of operation of different types of electrical machines
  • Analyse the construction and characteristics of electrical machines
  • Evaluate the performance of electrical machines under various operating conditions
  • Apply methods for controlling the speed and torque of electrical machines
  • Understand the maintenance requirements for electrical machines
Electronic Devices and Circuits Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
You'll understand the characteristics of electronic components such as resistors, capacitors, diodes, and transistors. They will develop practical skills in constructing, testing, analysing, and troubleshooting basic electronic circuits, alongside learning circuit design principles.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the characteristics of different electronic components
  • Construct and test basic electronic circuits
  • Analyse the behaviour of electronic circuits
  • Understand the principles of circuit design
  • Troubleshoot electronic circuits
Electronic Measurement and Testing of Circuits Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
This unit covers the principles and practical skills of electronic measurement and circuit testing. You'll perform measurements, conduct tests, and analyse results to identify faults and ensure correct circuit operation.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of electronic measurement
  • Understand the principles of electronic testing of circuits
  • Perform electronic measurements on circuits
  • Perform electronic testing of circuits
  • Analyse the results of electronic measurements and testing
Electronic Printed Circuit Board Design and Manufacture Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
This unit covers the principles of electronic printed circuit board (PCB) design and manufacture. You'll use CAD software to design PCBs, select components, prepare designs for manufacture, assemble components, and test and inspect finished PCBs.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of electronic printed circuit board (PCB) design
  • Understand the PCB manufacturing process
  • Use CAD software to design PCBs
  • Select appropriate components for PCB design
  • Prepare PCB designs for manufacture
  • Assemble electronic components onto PCBs
  • Test and inspect manufactured PCBs
Engineering Maintenance and Condition Monitoring Techniques Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
This unit covers engineering maintenance principles and condition monitoring techniques. You'll identify maintenance strategies, apply monitoring methods to assess equipment health, analyse data to predict failures, and implement maintenance procedures.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of engineering maintenance
  • Identify different types of maintenance strategies
  • Apply condition monitoring techniques to assess the health of engineering equipment
  • Analyse condition monitoring data to predict potential failures
  • Implement maintenance procedures to ensure the reliable operation of engineering systems
Engineering Principles Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
You'll gain foundational knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and thermal engineering principles. The unit enables application of these principles to solve practical problems, understand material properties, and interpret engineering drawings.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand fundamental mechanical principles
  • Understand fundamental electrical principles
  • Understand fundamental thermal principles
  • Apply engineering principles to solve practical problems
  • Understand the properties of engineering materials
  • Interpret engineering drawings and diagrams
Engineering Product Design and Manufacture Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
You'll apply engineering product design principles from concept through to prototype manufacture. The unit covers design processes, evaluation of manufacturing methods, creation of detailed drawings, and analysis of prototype performance.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of engineering product design
  • Apply the product design process from concept to prototype
  • Evaluate different manufacturing processes for engineering products
  • Create detailed engineering drawings and specifications
  • Manufacture a prototype of an engineering product
  • Analyse and evaluate the performance of the manufactured product against design specifications
Fabrication Manufacturing Processes Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
You'll explore various fabrication manufacturing processes, their principles, applications, advantages, and disadvantages. The unit enables application and evaluation of fabrication methods in different manufacturing contexts.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand different fabrication manufacturing processes
  • Understand the principles of different fabrication manufacturing processes
  • Apply fabrication manufacturing processes
  • Evaluate the application of fabrication manufacturing processes
Maintenance of Mechanical Systems Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
This unit equips learners with knowledge of mechanical system maintenance, including preventative and corrective approaches. You'll identify common faults, apply diagnostic and repair techniques, and demonstrate practical maintenance skills.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of mechanical system maintenance, including preventative and corrective maintenance.
  • Identify common mechanical system faults and their causes.
  • Apply appropriate maintenance techniques to diagnose and repair mechanical system faults.
  • Demonstrate practical skills in the maintenance of mechanical systems, including lubrication, alignment, and component replacement.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of maintenance procedures and recommend improvements.
Manufacturing Computer Numerical Control Machining Processes Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
You'll study Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining principles, machine types, setup, operation, and programming. The unit includes analysis of quality control and health and safety requirements in CNC manufacturing processes.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining processes in manufacturing
  • Describe the different types of CNC machines used in manufacturing
  • Explain the process of setting up and operating CNC machines
  • Apply CNC programming techniques to manufacture components
  • Analyse the quality control procedures used in CNC machining
  • Evaluate the health and safety requirements when working with CNC machines
Manufacturing Secondary Machining Processes Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
This unit provides knowledge of secondary machining processes like drilling, tapping, and reaming. You'll be able to set up and operate machining equipment, perform operations within specified tolerances, and understand quality control procedures.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of secondary machining processes
  • Set up and operate secondary machining equipment
  • Perform secondary machining operations to specified tolerances
  • Understand quality control procedures in secondary machining
Mechanical Behaviour of Metallic Materials Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
You'll study the mechanical behaviour of metallic materials, including deformation, strength, creep, and fatigue. The unit covers factors influencing behaviour under different conditions and evaluates material suitability for engineering applications.

What you'll be able to do

  • Describe the different types of mechanical behaviour exhibited by metallic materials
  • Explain the factors that influence the mechanical behaviour of metallic materials
  • Analyse the properties of metallic materials under different loading conditions
  • Evaluate the suitability of different metallic materials for specific engineering applications
Mechanical Measurement and Inspection Technology Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
You'll study mechanical measurement and inspection principles, including the use of instruments like micrometres and calipers. The unit develops skills to perform measurements and inspections, and analyse results to identify defects and ensure component quality.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the principles of mechanical measurement
  • Understand the principles of mechanical inspection technology
  • Perform mechanical measurements
  • Perform mechanical inspections
  • Analyse the results of mechanical measurements and inspections
Pneumatic and Hydraulic Systems Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
This unit covers the fundamental principles and components of pneumatic and hydraulic systems. You'll analyse system parts, understand their operation, and apply safe working practices when handling these systems.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental principles of pneumatic systems
  • Understand the fundamental principles of hydraulic systems
  • Analyse the components used in pneumatic systems
  • Analyse the components used in hydraulic systems
  • Apply safe working practices when working with pneumatic and hydraulic systems
  • Evaluate the performance of pneumatic systems
  • Evaluate the performance of hydraulic systems
  • Maintain pneumatic systems
  • Maintain hydraulic systems
Programmable Logic Controllers Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
This unit provides knowledge of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), including system components and architecture. You'll develop, implement, test, and troubleshoot basic PLC programs and apply PLC systems in industrial automation.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental principles of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
  • Identify the key components and architecture of a PLC system
  • Develop and implement basic PLC programs using appropriate programming languages
  • Test and troubleshoot PLC programs to ensure correct functionality
  • Apply PLC systems to control engineering processes
Static Mechanical Principles in Practice Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
You'll understand static mechanical principles such as forces, moments, and equilibrium. The unit develops skills to analyse structural behaviour under load, apply engineering standards, and evaluate material suitability for static applications.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the fundamental principles of static mechanics, including forces, moments, and equilibrium.
  • Apply static mechanical principles to analyse the behaviour of structures and components under load.
  • Demonstrate practical skills in measuring and calculating static mechanical properties.
  • Interpret and apply relevant engineering standards and codes of practice related to static mechanics.
  • Evaluate the suitability of different materials for static mechanical applications.
Sustainable Transport Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
It teaches you to investigate the sustainability of alternative power sources for transport vehicles and the benefits of reducing travel distances. You'll also explore how incentives, penalties, and barriers influence demand for sustainable transport.

What you'll be able to do

  • Investigate the sustainability of alternative power sources for transport vehicles
  • Investigate the wider benefits of reducing the distance travelled by transport vehicles
  • Investigate how barriers to use, incentives and penalties could affect the demand for sustainable vehicle transport
  • Investigate ways to improve the sustainability of leisure travel
Welding Technology Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
This unit covers various welding techniques including MIG, TIG, and MMA, their applications, and material properties. You'll learn to prepare materials, perform welding operations, adhere to safety procedures, and inspect welds for quality assurance.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand different welding techniques and their applications
  • Prepare materials for welding
  • Perform welding operations using different techniques
  • Understand the importance of safety procedures in welding
  • Inspect and test welds for quality
Work Experience in the Engineering Sector Real unit · Pearson Education Ltd
This unit prepares learners for work experience in the engineering sector by covering placement planning, professional behaviour, reflection, and health and safety regulations. You'll learn to maximise the benefits of their placement.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the requirements for work experience in the engineering sector
  • Plan and prepare for a work experience placement
  • Demonstrate professional behaviour in the workplace
  • Reflect on and evaluate work experience
  • Understand health and safety regulations in an engineering environment
03The standards

The national standards these units are built against

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

  • Maintenance and repair of mechanical hard facilities systems

    Standard
04The credits

The credits, and who awards them

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

What you would be collecting

Additive Manufacturing ProcessesApplied Commercial and Quality Principles in EngineeringCalculus to Solve Engineering ProblemsComputer Aided Design in EngineeringComputer ProgrammingDelivery of Engineering Processes Safely as a TeamElectrical MachinesElectronic Devices and Circuits

Each one is a real unit registered against this qualification.

How you’d practise it

You don’t watch this. You do it.

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

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

    “Applied Commercial and Quality Principles in Engineering” runs on a decision you are facing now. Zavmo maps it with you and shows what the second-order effect looks like before you find out the slow way.

  • Lead it Apply

    “Delivery of Engineering Processes Safely as a Team” is practised on the team you actually have. You talk through the call you are about to make, and Zavmo makes you say it the way you would say it to them.

How you would learn this

One to one, on the work you already do

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

A lesson from Additive Manufacturing Processes, one of this qualification's own units.

Additive Manufacturing Processes Level 3

Applied to your own work

This unit introduces additive manufacturing processes, technologies, and materials. Learners will prepare 3D models, operate, and maintain additive manufacturing equipment, understanding the advantages and limitations compared to traditional methods.

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

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

Your Plan Illustration

Built for Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Engineering

25 units in this credential, in the order it lists them, awarded by Pearson Education Ltd.

  1. Additive Manufacturing Processes
  2. Applied Commercial and Quality Principles in Engineering
  3. Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems
  4. Computer Aided Design in Engineering
  5. Computer Programming
  6. Delivery of Engineering Processes Safely as a Team

and 19 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.

Free tools

Want a read on where you stand?

Three free tools, no account needed. Each one ends with a role, a level and a way in.

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

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

Build my plan, free

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

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