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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 Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited 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 Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited awards. A qualified assessor at the centre judges your evidence, and the certificate comes from Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited.

More on studying for a qualification

01What it is

The Level 3 Diploma in Rail Engineering Technician Knowledge provides a foundation in the theoretical aspects of rail engineering. Learners gain understanding of overhead line technologies, telecommunication principles, and other relevant topics. It is a vocationally-related qualification for those seeking to enhance their knowledge within the transportation sector.

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. 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 Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited. It does the teaching and the mapping. Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited sets this qualification and awards it, and a qualified human assessor makes the assessment decision.

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02The units

What each unit actually teaches you to do

Electrical and electronic principles Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll apply circuit theory to analyse direct current (DC) circuits and networks, calculating voltage, current, and resistance. The unit also covers the use of multimetres for measurements and introduces capacitance and semiconductor diode concepts.

What you'll be able to do

  • Use circuit theory to determine voltage, current and resistance in direct current (DC) circuits
  • Use DC circuit theory to calculate current, voltage and resistance in DC network
  • Use a multimeter to carry out circuit measurements in a DC network
  • Understand the concepts of capacitance and determine capacitance values in DC circuits
  • Compare the forward and reverse characteristics of different types of semiconductor diode
  • Describe the types and function of capacitors
  • Determine the relationship between the voltage and current for a charging and discharging capacitor
  • Know the principles and properties of magnetism
  • Describe the characteristics of a magnetic field
  • Describe the relationship between flux density (B) and field strength (H)
  • Describe the principles and applications of electromagnetic induction
  • Use single-phase alternating current (AC) theory
  • Use single phase AC circuit theory to determine the characteristics of a sinusoidal AC waveform
  • Determine the inputs and outputs of a single phase AC circuit
Engineering solutions and innovation Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll gain an understanding of quality assurance management in engineering, including definitions, inspection activities, and key principles of ISO 9000 standards. The unit also covers quality planning and continuous improvement tools.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand quality assurance management
  • Define the term ‘quality management’
  • Define the term ‘quality assurance’
  • Describe roles of inspection activities
  • Describe stages of inspection activities
  • Explain the key principles of the ISO 9000 series of standards
  • Describe the elements of quality planning
  • Describe the key principles of total quality management (TQM)
  • Understand Workplace Improvement
  • Identify tools used for continuous improvement within work areas
  • Identify different wastes within work activities
  • Explain cost effective ways to eliminate waste
  • Describe the role of visual management in the workplace
  • Describe the importance of standardised company documentation in the workplace
  • Understand the basic principles of project management
  • Explain project lifecycle
  • Explain the stages of a project
  • Explain the factors of a project
  • Explain project roles
  • Explain project responsibilities
  • Explain stakeholder management
  • Explain how projects are controlled
  • Explain how projects are managed
  • Identify success factors for projects
  • Explain why projects are reviewed
  • Understand problem solving
  • Explain the principles of root cause analysis
  • Explain the importance of getting to the root cause of problems
  • Apply a structured procedure to problem solving
  • Describe factors to be considered when proposing solutions to problems
  • Explain the importance of monitoring the effectiveness of the corrective actions
  • Explain to the importance of reviewing the problem solving process in order to achieve further improvements within the business
Features and Application of Electrical Machines Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides knowledge of electrical hazards and relevant legislation, regulations, and standards related to working with electrical apparatus. You'll identify hazards, describe control measures, and understand safety requirements.

What you'll be able to do

  • Know the electrical hazards and the legislation, regulations and standards related to working with electrical apparatus
  • Identify the hazards that may exist when working with different pieces of electrical apparatus
  • Describe the control measures that should be used to reduce the risk of harm to self and others when working with electrical apparatus
  • Describe the aspects of legislation, regulations and standards that relate to electrical apparatus
  • Understand alternating current (AC) machines
  • Explain the features, characteristics and application of AC motors
  • Explain the features, characteristics and applications of AC generators
  • Explain the features, characteristics and applications of transformers
  • Understand direct current (DC) machines
  • Explain the features, characteristics and applications of DC motors
  • Explain the features, characteristics and applications of DC generators
  • Know how electrical machine control circuits and systems operate
  • Describe the operation and use of stop/start/retain relay control circuits for AC or DC machines
Function and Characteristics of Railway Signalling Systems Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides a comprehensive understanding of railway signalling systems, including their role in safe and efficient train operation, historical development, and lifecycle. You'll examine man-machine interfaces and associated challenges.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the role of rail signalling within the railway system
  • Describe the historical development of signalling systems
  • Explain the purpose and scope of a signalling system within the rail system
  • Explain the man-machine interfaces, their problems and how they are addressed
  • Describe a signalling system lifecycle from design to decommissioning
  • Understand the principles of safety and high integrity systems as applied to a railway signalling system
  • Explain the principles of high integrity engineering with reference to the components of a signalling system
  • Know the function and characteristics of line-side signalling elements
  • Describe the application of principles throughout the signalling lifecycle
  • Explain the function of elements, consequences of failure and risk mitigation for a given signalling application
  • Describe the main line-side elements of a typical railway signalling system
  • Know the major sources and categories of controlled documentation, signalling information, notation and terminology
  • Describe how information is obtained and the importance of documentation control
  • Describe signalling abbreviations, symbols and definitions
Mathematics for Engineering Technicians Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll develop mathematical skills for engineering technicians, focusing on algebraic and trigonometric methods. The unit covers manipulation and simplification of expressions using indices and logarithms, and solving linear equations graphically.

What you'll be able to do

  • Use algebraic methods
  • Manipulate and simplify three algebraic expressions using the laws of indices and two using the laws of logarithms
  • Solve a linear equation by plotting a straight-line graph using experimental data and use it to deduce the gradient, intercept and equation of the line
  • Factorise by extraction and grouping of a common factor from expressions with two, three and four terms respectively
  • Use trigonometric methods and standard formula to determine areas
  • Solve circular and triangular measurement problems involving the use of radian, sine, cosine and tangent functions
  • Sketch each of the three trigonometric functions over a complete cycle
  • Produce answers to two practical engineering problems involving the sine and cosine rule
  • Use standard formulae to find surface areas and volumes of regular solids for three different examples respectively
  • Use statistical methods to display data
  • Collect data and produce statistical diagrams, histograms and frequency
  • Determine the mean, median and mode for two statistical problems and explain the relevance of each average as a measure of central tendency
  • Use elementary calculus techniques
  • Apply the basic rules of calculus arithmetic to solve three different types of function by differentiation and two different types of function by integration
Mechanical Principles and applications Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit equips learners to analyse loading effects in static engineering systems, calculating the magnitude, direction, and position of resultant and equilibrant forces in non-concurrent coplanar force systems. It covers fundamental mechanical principles and applications.

What you'll be able to do

  • Determine the effects of loading in static engineering systems
  • Calculate the magnitude of the line of action of the resultant and equilibrant of a non-concurrent coplanar force system containing a minimum of four forces acting in different directions
  • Calculate the direction of the line of action of the resultant and equilibrant of a non-concurrent coplanar force system containing a minimum of four forces acting in different directions
  • Calculate the position of the line of action of the resultant and equilibrant of a non-concurrent coplanar force system containing a minimum of four forces acting in different directions
  • Calculate the support reactions of a simply supported beam carrying at least two concentrated loads and a uniformly distributed load
  • Calculate the induced direct stress in a component subjected to direct uniaxial loading
  • Calculate the induced strain in a component subjected to direct uniaxial loading
  • Calculate the induced dimensional change in a component subjected to direct uniaxial loading
  • Calculate the shear stress in a component subjected to shear loading
  • Calculate the shear strain in a component subjected to shear loading
  • Determine work, power and energy transfer in dynamic engineering systems
  • Solve problems that require the application of kinetic principles to determine unknown system parameters
  • Solve problems that require the application of dynamic principles to determine unknown system parameters
  • Determine the retarding force on a freely falling body when it impacts upon a stationary object and is brought to rest without rebound, in a given distance
  • Determine the parameters of fluid systems
  • Calculate the resultant thrust on a vertical rectangular retaining surface with one edge in the free surface of a liquid
  • Calculate the overturning moment on a vertical rectangular retaining surface with one edge in the free surface of a liquid
  • Determine the up-thrust on an immersed body
  • Determine the thermal efficiency of a heat transfer process from given values of flow rate, temperature change and input power
  • Use the continuity of volume flow for an incompressible fluid to determine the design characteristics of a gradually tapering pipe
  • Use the continuity of mass flow for an incompressible fluid to determine the design characteristics of a gradually tapering pipe
  • Determine the effects of energy transfer in thermodynamic systems
  • Calculate the dimensional change when a solid material undergoes a change in temperature
  • Calculate the heat transfer that accompanies a change of temperature
  • Calculate the heat transfer that accompanies a change of phase
  • Solve problems that require application of thermodynamic process equations for a perfect gas to determine the unknown parameters of the problems
  • Determine the force induced in a rigidly held component that undergoes a change in temperature
Overground rail passenger comfort, safety and security Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll explore passenger safety, security, and comfort systems used on overground rail, focusing on Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) and passenger information systems. The unit covers system components, technical requirements, and their impact on passenger experience.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand passenger safety and security systems
  • Explain the importance of Closed Circuit Television systems and passenger information systems in terms of passenger security and comfort
  • Explain the components used, technical requirements and their function in a typical Closed Circuit Television system
  • Explain the different recording media used in typical Closed Circuit Television systems
  • Explain the implications of using and maintaining a Closed Circuit Television system with respect the privacy of passengers
  • Describe a typical Passenger Information System showing all of the key components including controllers, displays, passenger alarms and on train audio
  • Describe the relationship between passenger alarms and emergency brakes
  • Describe the function and operation of Passenger Information System components and how fault finding is carried out on them
  • Explain how automatic announcements are controlled on a typical Passenger Information System
  • Understand Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems
  • Explain the principles of heat transfer in terms of conduction, convection and radiation
  • Explain the relationship between temperature and pressure and how this relationship is used in HVAC systems
  • Describe the components and their function in a typical rolling stock HVAC system
  • Compare and contrast the different types of refrigeration including mechanical, chemical and venturi
  • Describe the safety precautions to be used when working on and around HVAC systems
  • Describe a typical electronic control unit for an HVAC used within rolling stock and any associated maintenance software
  • Explain the environmental and legal implications of a release of refrigerant into the atmosphere
  • Understand train interior and exterior, saloon and cab door systems
  • Explain the operating principles of electrical and pneumatic, exterior and interior, cab and saloon doors systems
  • Explain the components, materials used and operational requirements of exterior cab and saloon doors systems
  • Describe the electrical/ electronic methods used for the control and operation of exterior cab and saloon door systems
  • List the safety devices fitted to exterior saloon doors and describe the operation of these devices
  • Explain the term ‘wrong side failure’ and any implications that such a failure would have on the exterior saloon door system
  • Demonstrate the ability to fault find on the cab and saloon interior and exterior door systems using downloads, diagnostic software, system schematics and MVB analysis if applicable
  • Explain the importance a correct mechanical saloon door set up with regard to normal operation, safety implications and impact on the serviceability of door components
  • Describe the differences between cab back wall doors and standard interior doors explaining the reasons for these differences and the different implications of any failures
  • Understand train toilet systems
  • Explain the operating principles of a typical toilet system
  • Explain the components that make up a toilet system and operational requirements of each component
  • Describe any current legislation with regards to on train toilets and how this effects rolling stock design
  • Describe any health and safety requirements of working on and changing components in any toilet system
  • Describe the limitations of using fresh and waste water tanks, and explain any affect they may have on a Train Operating Company (TOC) diagram choice
  • Write a planned maintenance programme for toilet systems listing the components to be inspected, any preventative maintenance and the inspection criteria
  • Understand train vehicle trim
  • Describe a typical passenger counting system and explain the reasons why a Train Operating Company (TOC) would choose to install or use such a system
  • Illustrate mathematically why a Train Operating Company (TOC) may request tha
Overground rail vehicle traction and associated systems Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll study overground rail vehicle traction and rolling stock suspension systems, focusing on their design, construction, maintenance, and operation. The unit also addresses the effects of suspension failure on track and vehicle damage.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand traction and rolling stock suspension systems
  • Describe the design, construction, maintenance and operation of train suspension
  • Describe the purpose of the different suspension systems fitted to trains
  • Explain how failed suspension increases damage to both track and vehicles
  • Compare conventional body/bogie mountings
  • Understand the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock braking systems
  • Describe the operation of a typical air/electric brake system
  • 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 traction and rolling stock
  • Describe the operation of a 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
  • Explain the implications to the Train Operating Company (TOC) of a unit in service being unable to release brakes whilst on the line
  • Explain the use of round train circuits and the implications of their failure
  • Understand the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock axles, wheels and bearings
  • Describe a typical wheelset, identifying all components
  • Identify the different types of wheel profile and their specific use
  • Describe the process of changing out a wheelsets as routine maintenance, identifying all risks associated with the operation
  • Explain the risks associated with changing out a wheelsets
  • Describe in situ test and inspection methods for Traction and rolling stock wheelsets
  • Discuss the implications of a ‘flat’ on a wheelset
  • Discuss ways in which wheelset life may be extended
  • Explain the importance of a regular maintenance programme for traction and the implications of a delay in this
  • 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
  • Compare 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
  • Understand the fundamentals of 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
  • 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
  • Understand diesel hydraulic and diesel electric power generation and transmission
  • 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
  • Describe a planned annual preventative maintenance programme for a diesel engine listing the components to be inspected and the periodic
Overhead line Infrastructure Construction and Maintenance Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll understand preparatory activities, legal and financial frameworks, and development processes for overhead line infrastructure construction and maintenance. The unit also covers earthwork activities and method statements.

What you'll be able to do

  • Know the preparatory activities required for the construction of overhead line infrastructure
  • Describe the legal and financial framework applicable to a project for the development of a new section of overhead line infrastructure
  • Describe the development process required for a new build or renewal within a railway overhead line environment
  • Know the scope of earthwork activities that may be undertaken in association with overhead line infrastructure
  • Describe the methodology used for an overhead line earthworks project, including the plant and equipment required
  • Describe the importance of foundations for the construction of overhead line structures
  • Understand the forms of construction and material specifications used in overhead line infrastructure
  • Explain the essential design principles for overhead line geometry
  • Describe the construction methods for initial placement and subsequent maintenance activities to ensure overhead line position and geometry
  • Describe the materials and quality control processes required to ensure the provision of suitable and sustainable overhead line construction material and waste material disposal
  • Understand overhead line maintenance processes used to identify and correct defects
  • Describe the maintenance issues that need to be considered to determine rail infrastructure integrity
  • Explain how rail infrastructure defects are identified and the prescribed remedial action for each
Rail Electrification Technologies Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll explore mechanical systems used in rail electrification technologies, including lubrication, seals, bearings, cam and follower mechanisms, transmission shafts, and couplings. The unit covers operation, maintenance, and application of these systems.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand mechanical systems
  • Describe the purpose and application of lubricants
  • Describe the operation and maintenance of lubrication systems
  • Describe the operation of seals, packaging and bearings
  • Describe the operation of different types of cam and follower and linkage mechanisms
  • Describe the arrangement and operation of transmission shaft and coupling, clutch and brakes
  • Describe the layout and operation of pneumatic actuation systems
  • Describe the layout and operation of hydraulic actuation systems
  • Describe the layout and operation of manual handling systems
  • Describe the layout and operation of power generation plant, refrigeration and air conditioning systems applied to substations
  • Understand materials in the rail environment
  • Describe mechanical properties of materials used in rail engineering
  • Describe physical properties of materials used in rail engineering
  • Describe thermal properties of materials used in rail engineering
  • Describe electrical properties of materials used in rail engineering
  • Describe magnetic properties of materials used in rail engineering
  • Describe the effects of processing on the properties and behaviour of materials used in rail engineering
  • Describe the principles of the modes of failure
  • Understand the function of High Voltage and Low Voltage Switchgear
  • Explain the purpose, operation and application of switchgear
  • Explain the importance of switchgear to plant safety
  • Explain the requirement to use specialist tools when working with switchgear
  • Identify hazards associated with maintenance activities on switchgear
  • Identify switchgear component failure modes and causes
  • Describe types and identification of HV cabling
  • Describe types and identification of LV cabling
Rail Overhead Line Technologies (Construction) Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit introduces basic surveying techniques relevant to rail overhead line construction, including linear and levelling surveys. You'll identify terminology and equipment, perform surveys, and produce drawings from collected data.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand basic surveying techniques
  • Identify linear surveying terminology and equipment
  • Identify levelling surveying terminology and equipment
  • Carry out linear surveys using appropriate equipment to produce drawings
  • Carry out levelling surveys using appropriate equipment to produce drawings
  • Identify angular terminology and equipment
  • Understand materials in the rail environment
  • Describe mechanical, physical, thermal, electrical and magnetic properties of materials used in rail engineering
  • Describe the effects of processing on the properties and behaviour of materials used in rail engineering
  • Describe the principles of the modes of failure
  • Understand electrical systems in the rail environment
  • Describe the types and function of capacitors
  • Explain the relationship between the voltage and current for a charging and discharging capacitor
  • Describe the characteristics of a magnetic field
  • Describe the principles and applications of electromagnetic induction
  • Determine the characteristics of a sinusoidal AC waveform using single phase AC circuit theory
  • Use test equipment to test AC circuits
  • Compare the results of adding and subtracting two sinusoidal AC waveforms graphically and by phasor diagram
Rail Overhead Line Technologies (maintenance) Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll gain knowledge and skills to carry out linear and levelling surveys using appropriate equipment and produce accurate drawings. The unit also covers understanding material properties used in rail engineering and the effects of processing on these properties.

What you'll be able to do

  • Identify linear surveying terminology and equipment.
  • Identify levelling surveying terminology and equipment.
  • Carry out linear surveys using appropriate equipment to produce drawings.
  • Carry out levelling surveys using appropriate equipment to produce drawings.
  • Identify angular terminology and equipment.
  • Describe mechanical, physical, thermal, electrical and magnetic properties of materials used in rail engineering.
  • Describe the effects of processing on the properties and behaviour of materials used in rail engineering.
  • Describe the principles of the modes of failure.
  • Calculate the magnitude, direction and position of the line of action of the resultant and equilibrant of a non-concurrent coplanar force system containing a minimum of four forces acting in different directions.
  • Calculate the support reactions of a simply supported beam carrying at least two concentrated loads and a uniformly distributed load.
  • Calculate the induced direct stress, strain and dimensional change in a component subjected to a direct uniaxial loading and the shear stress and strain in a component subjected to shear loading.
Rail Technologies Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit equips learners with knowledge and skills to perform basic surveying techniques in a rail context. You'll identify relevant terminology and equipment, conduct linear and levelling surveys, and produce drawings from survey data.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand basic surveying techniques
  • Identify linear surveying terminology and equipment
  • Identify levelling surveying terminology and equipment
  • Carry out linear surveys using appropriate equipment to produce drawings
  • Carry out levelling surveys using appropriate equipment to produce drawings
  • Identify angular terminology and equipment
  • Understand materials in the rail environment
  • Describe mechanical, physical, thermal, electrical and magnetic properties of materials used in rail engineering
  • Describe the effects of processing on the properties and behaviour of materials used in rail engineering
  • Describe the principles of the modes of failure
  • Describe mechanical, physical, thermal, electrical and magnetic properties of materials used in rail engineering
  • Understand mechanical systems in the rail environment
  • Describe the purpose and application of lubricants
  • Describe the operation and maintenance of lubrication systems
  • Describe the operation of seals, packaging and bearings
  • Describe the operation of different types of cam and follower and linkage mechanisms
  • Understand the interface between railway systems
  • 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 between track geometry and overhead line geometry
Railway Infrastructure Construction and Maintenance Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers preparatory activities for railway track infrastructure construction, including legal and financial frameworks. You'll understand the development processes required for new builds and renewals within a railway environment.

What you'll be able to do

  • Know the preparatory activities required for the construction of railway track infrastructure
  • Describe the legal and financial framework applicable to a project for a new section of railway infrastructure
  • Describe the development process required for a new build within a railway environment
  • Describe the development process required for a renewal within a railway environment
  • Know the scope of earthwork activities that may be undertaken in association with railway track infrastructure
  • Describe the methodology used for a railway track earthworks project
  • Describe the plant and equipment required for a standard track cross section
  • Describe the importance of track foundation to the load bearing capacity of the line
  • Understand the forms of construction and material specifications used in railway track infrastructure
  • Explain the essential design principles for track geometry
  • Explain the importance of wheel rail interface
  • Describe the construction methods for initial placement to ensure track position and geometry
  • Describe the construction methods for subsequent maintenance activities to ensure track position and geometry
  • Describe the materials required to ensure the provision of suitable and sustainable track construction
  • Describe the quality control processes required to ensure the provision of suitable and sustainable track construction material
  • Describe the quality control processes required to ensure waste material disposal
  • Understand track maintenance processes used to identify and correct defects in railways
  • Describe the maintenance issues that need to be considered to determine rail infrastructure integrity
  • Explain how rail infrastructure defects are identified
  • Explain the prescribed remedial action for each rail infrastructure defect
Signalling Technologies Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll study the function and operation of diodes, transistors, and logic gates within signalling technologies. The unit includes explanations of component purposes and operations in various electronic circuit applications.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the function and operation of diodes, transistors and logic gates
  • Explain the purpose of two different types of diode, each in a different electronic circuit application
  • Explain the operation of two different types of transistor, one in an analogue circuit
  • Explain the operation of two different types of transistor, one in a digital circuit
  • Explain the operation of three different logic gates with appropriate gate symbols
  • Explain the operation of three different logic gates with truth tables
  • Explain the operation of three different logic gates with Boolean expressions
  • Build and test operational amplifier-based analogue circuits
  • Build and test two different types of analogue circuit using operational amplifiers
  • Build and test combinational and sequential logic circuits
  • Build and test a combinational logic circuit that has three input variables
  • Build and test a sequential circuit using integrated circuit(s)
  • Know about system monitoring and reliability
  • Describe a condition monitoring method related to a given engineering system
  • Describe a condition monitoring technique related to a given engineering system
  • Use given data to calculate failure rates for a range of components
  • Use given data to calculate failure rates for a range of equipment
  • Describe the factors affecting reliability for a given engineering system
Telecommunication Technologies Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit introduces telecommunication technologies, including data communication systems, communication devices, signal theory, and computer networks. You'll identify and describe network components and explain communication principles and protocols.

What you'll be able to do

  • Know the main elements of data communications system
  • Identify and explain types of communication devices
  • Explain the principles of signal theory
  • Understand the communication principles of computer networks
  • Identify and describe the roles of network components and how they are interconnected
  • Describe the features of networks and the communication services they offer
  • Describe communication protocols used and explain why they are important
  • Understand transmission protocols and models
  • Describe different methods of electronic communication and transmission media used
  • Understand internet communications
  • Describe the nature of internet communication and the associated system requirements
Telecommunication principles Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit covers the fundamental principles of telecommunications, focusing on the relationship between telecommunication circuits and transmission lines, including their reactive and resistive properties. You'll understand how these components affect digital signal transmission.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand the relationship between telecommunication circuits and transmission lines and their effect on a digital signal
  • Describe the properties of a circuit with reactive and resistive components
  • Describe the characteristics of a transmission line with reference to an equivalent circuit model
  • Describe the properties of a digital signal and the impairments that could affect it
  • Understand the principles and characteristics of frequency modulation and multiplexing
  • Describe signal modulation techniques and the properties of a modulated signal
  • Describe the principles and benefits of analogue to digital conversion
  • Describe the principles and benefits of frequency and time division multiplexing
  • Carry out tests on telecommunications electrical circuits
  • Make measurements on telecommunication electrical circuits
  • Understand the applications of electromagnetic theory as applied to telecommunications
  • Describe the characteristics and application of frequency bands in the electromagnetic spectrum
  • Explain how transformers and other telecommunication devices make use of the principles of electromagnetism
Underground rail passenger comfort, safety and security Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides knowledge of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems used in underground rail environments, focusing on their role in passenger comfort, safety, and security. You'll examine system components, technical requirements, and fault-finding methods.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand Closed Circuit Television systems
  • Explain the purposes of a Closed Circuit Television system in terms of passenger security and comfort
  • Explain the components used, technical requirements and their function in a typical Closed Circuit Television system
  • Describe the implications of a Closed Circuit Television system failing the methods used for fault finding on the system
  • Explain the reasons for the different types of recording media used in typical Closed Circuit Television systems
  • Explain the implications of using a Closed Circuit Television system with respect the privacy of passengers
  • Understand Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning Systems
  • Explain the principles of heat transfer in terms of conduction, convection and radiation
  • Explain the relationship between temperature and pressure and how this relationship is used in HVAC systems
  • Explain the stages and operation of a typical rolling stock HVAC system
  • Describe the components and their function in a typical rolling stock HVAC system
  • Describe the air conditioning refrigeration systems
  • Describe the safety precautions to be used when working on and around HVAC systems
  • Describe a typical control unit for an HVAC used within rolling stock and any associated maintenance
  • Explain the environmental and legal implications of a release of refrigerant into the atmosphere
  • Understand Passenger Information Systems
  • Describe a typical Passenger Information System showing all of the key components including controllers, displays, passenger alarms and on train audio
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between passenger alarms and emergency brakes
  • Describe the function and operation of each of the Passenger Information System components
  • Explain how automatic announcements are controlled on a typical Passenger Information System
  • Demonstrate the ability to fault find on the Passenger Information Systems using downloads, system schematics and MVB analysis if applicable
  • Explain the importance of having a functioning Passenger Information System in terms of passenger safety and comfort
  • Understand train door systems
  • Explain the operating principles of electrical and pneumatic, door systems
  • Explain the components, materials used and operational requirements of exterior door systems
  • Describe the electrical/ electronic methods used for the control and operation of exterior door systems
  • List the safety devices fitted to exterior saloon doors and describe the operation of these devices
  • Explain the term ‘wrong side failure’ and any implications that such a failure would have on the exterior saloon door system
  • Demonstrate the ability to fault find on the cab and door systems using downloads, diagnostic software, system schematics and MVB analysis if applicable
  • Explain the importance a correct mechanical saloon door set up with regard to normal operation, safety implications and impact on the serviceability of door components
  • Understand train vehicle trim
  • Describe a typical passenger counting or load system and explain the reasons why a TOC would choose to install or use such a system
  • Describe the required properties of the glazing used on passenger trains
  • Explain the minimum lighting requirements of a passenger train if it were to lose its main source of electrical power
  • Describe the logistics of maintaining a clean and tidy service for passengers from the perspective of train down time and manpower requirements
Underground rail vehicle traction and associated systems Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
You'll study traction and rolling stock suspension systems in underground rail vehicles, including their design, construction, maintenance, and operation. The unit also covers the impact of suspension failure on track and vehicle damage.

What you'll be able to do

  • Understand traction and rolling stock suspension systems
  • Describe the design, construction, maintenance and operation of train suspension
  • Describe the purpose of the different suspension systems fitted to trains
  • Explain how failed suspension increases damage to both track and vehicles
  • Compare conventional body/bogie mountings
  • Understand the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock braking systems
  • Describe the operation of a typical air/electric brake system
  • 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 traction and rolling stock
  • Describe the operation of a 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
  • Explain the implications to the Train Operating Company (TOC) of a unit in service being unable to release brakes whilst on the line
  • Explain the use of round train circuits and the implications of their failure
  • Understand the fundamentals of traction and rolling stock axles, wheels and bearings
  • Describe a typical wheelset, identifying all components
  • Identify different types of wheel profile and their specific use
  • Describe the risks associated with changing out wheelsets
  • Describe in situ test and inspection methods for Traction and rolling stock wheelsets
  • Discuss the implications of a ‘flat’ on a wheelset
  • Discuss ways in which wheelset life may be extended
  • Explain the importance of a regular maintenance programme for traction and the implications of a delay in this
  • Understand AC electric power collection and transmission
  • Describe the relationship between the design, construction, maintenance and operation of an AC electric powered traction unit
  • Describe AC traction supply in terms of the relationship between voltage, current and frequency
  • Describe what systems are in place to off load and prevent arc dragging at neutral sections or gaps
  • Describe how an AC vehicle’s main transformer works and the need for different voltage outputs
  • Describe the operation of a typical AC traction power control system that shows variations to allow for the control of both AC and DC traction motors
  • Compare the performance, reliability characteristics and maintenance implications of AC and DC traction motors
  • Explain the principles of rheostatic/regenerative braking
  • Understand the fundamentals of DC Electric power collection and transmission
  • Describe DC traction supply in terms of the relationship between voltage, current and frequency
  • Describe typical 630/750V DC collection equipment
  • Describe the systems that are in place to off load and prevent arc dragging at dragging gaps
  • Describe how the speed of DC traction motors is controlled
  • 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
Working safely within Rail Engineering Real unit · Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited
This unit provides learners with an understanding of safe working practices within rail engineering, including third-party requirements, client confidentiality, and organisational policies on ethics, diversity, and equality. You'll also gain awareness of commercial operations and contractual priorities relevant to the sector.

What you'll be able to do

  • Explain the importance of third party requirements and client confidentiality.
  • Describe the employing organisations policies on ethics, diversity and equality.
  • Describe the implications of not following policies on ethics, diversity and equality.
  • Describe commercial operations and contractual principles between railway organisations.
  • Identify positive and negative implications for railway organisations within their commercial operations.
  • Describe the responsibilities of the employee and employer with regards to workplace health and safety.
  • Describe the roles and responsibilities of different organisations involved with workplace health and safety.
  • Describe the key features of the relevant legislation and directives with regard to health and safety.
  • Describe the key features of the relevant legislation and directives with regard to environmental management.
  • Explain the possible consequences and cost implications of employees not abiding by legislation and regulations.
  • Explain the possible consequences and cost implications of employers not abiding by legislation and regulations.
  • Explain the difference between a risk and a hazard.
  • Describe the methods used to identify hazards in a working environment.
  • Explain how hazards which become risks can be controlled.
  • Describe the process of carrying out a risk assessment within the working environment.
  • Identify control measures as part of a risk assessment.
  • Explain the importance of reporting and recording accidents and incidents.
  • Describe the procedures used to record and report accidents, dangerous occurrences or near misses.
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.

  • Improve quality within your own area of work in the Tram and Tramway environment

    Standard

  • Manage supplier and contractor obligations in relation to infrastructure services in the rail industry

    Standard

  • Use digital and remote technologies to support learning in the Tram and Tramway environment

    Standard

  • Work with external suppliers of training in the Tram and Tramway environment

    Standard
04Where it leads

The jobs these credits are mapped to

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

Where this can lead

Associate RF Engineer

This work can lead to a senior RF engineer role, or on to lead and staff engineering positions.

See the whole journey
05The credits

The credits, and who awards them

Level 3 credits are regulated, and they are awarded by Excellence, Achievement & Learning Limited 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

Electrical and electronic principlesEngineering solutions and innovationFeatures and Application of Electrical MachinesFunction and Characteristics of Railway Signalling SystemsMathematics for Engineering TechniciansMechanical Principles and applicationsOverground rail passenger comfort, safety and securityOverground rail vehicle traction and associated systems

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 “Function and Characteristics of Railway Signalling Systems” 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

    “Function and Characteristics of Railway Signalling Systems” 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.

What you leave holding

The standards this credential builds, in the shape the product keeps them

Nothing here is marked learned. There is no learner on a public page, so the map shows what the qualification covers rather than what anybody has done.

See Your Progress Grow Illustration
EAL Level 3 Diploma in Rail Engineering Technician Knowledge
  • Improve quality within your own area of work in the Tram and Tramway environment
  • Manage supplier and contractor obligations in relation to infrastructure services in the rail industry
  • Use digital and remote technologies to support learning in the Tram and Tramway environment
  • Work with external suppliers of training in the Tram and Tramway environment
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.

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 Electrical and electronic principles, one of this qualification's own units.

Electrical and electronic principles Level 3

Applied to your work in any of these jobs

Which job do you mean?
Associate RF Engineer

Learners will apply circuit theory to analyse direct current (DC) circuits and networks, calculating voltage, current, and resistance. The unit also covers the use of multimetres for measurements and introduces capacitance and semiconductor diode concepts.

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.

Start learning, free
Your Plan Illustration

Built for EAL Level 3 Diploma in Rail Engineering Technician Knowledge

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

  1. Electrical and electronic principles
  2. Engineering solutions and innovation
  3. Features and Application of Electrical Machines
  4. Function and Characteristics of Railway Signalling Systems
  5. Mathematics for Engineering Technicians
  6. Mechanical Principles and applications

and 14 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.

Read the Zavmo manifesto to understand how you will be taught Meet your tutors

Or try another one

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.