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Engineering

Course overview

Engineering is about solving problems, designing solutions, and building the future. From machinery and transport to renewable energy, it’s a career that’s practical, innovative, and always in demand. Train with us and gain the skills to succeed in one of the world’s most exciting industries.

When you apply to study Engineering at The Sheffield College, you will be invited in to speak with our team to find out which of the qualifications listed below is the right fit for you. We will ask you about your previous experience and your career ambitions, as well as taking the qualifications you already have into consideration before offering you a place.

This is a one-year course that provides the knowledge, understanding and skills for learners wishing to enter a career in the areas of Production or Manufacturing Engineering.  The course is designed to familiarise you with the fundamentals of operating machine tools and will provide you with the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills in workshop fitting, mechanical and production engineering. 

On this one-year, full-time qualification, you will have the opportunity to learn about the design, development, manufacture and maintenance of engineering products and systems. This qualification will help develop your engineering skills to keep up with rapidly developing technologies and meet the needs of modern engineering industries. 

This is a two-year course that provides the knowledge, understanding and skills for learners wishing to enter a career in the areas of Production or Manufacturing Engineering. This course provides the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills in the design, development, manufacture and production of engineering products and systems.  

This qualification covers modern design methodologies and uses mechanical engineering expertise and understanding to bring concepts to life. You will gain knowledge of the engineering field while you study subjects like client and customer needs, design principles, and design communication. T Levels comprise of 80% classroom learning with 20% of the course being delivered through work placement. 

About the course

Engineering Level 1 

4 GCSEs at grade 2 or above to include English Language and Maths 

Engineering Level 2 

4 GCSEs at grade 3 or above to include English Language, Maths and Science 

Engineering Level 3 

5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above to include English Language, Maths and Science 

T Level Mechanical Engineering 

5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above to include English Language, Maths and Science 

Engineering Level 1 

  • Multiple choice exam 

  • Practical assignments 

Engineering Level 2 

  • Knowledge assessments 

  • Practical assessments 

  • Multiple-choice exam 

Engineering Level 3 

  • Written assignments 

  • Practical assignments 

T Level Mechanical Engineering 

  • Written exams 

  • Practical assessments 

  • Employer-set projects  

  • Group work and presentations  

  • You will be set targets to work towards and achieve in your placement to help you develop the skills you need for your second-year practical assessment 

Start with Engineering Level 1 to build your foundation skills, then progress through Level 2 and Level 3 for advanced training. The T Level in Mechanical Engineering offers a mix of classroom learning and industry placement, preparing you for higher technical qualifications (HNC/HND), a Degree Apprenticeship, or university-level study in areas like mechanical, civil, or electrical engineering. These courses also provide a direct route into Apprenticeships and skilled jobs. 

Engineering can lead to a wide range of careers, including: 

  • Mechanical engineer 

  • Maintenance engineer 

  • Design engineer 

  • Manufacturing or production engineer 

  • Aerospace or automotive engineer 

  • Renewable energy technician 

  • Robotics or automation specialist 

  • Project manager or site supervisor 

Interview process 

For this course, the interview process includes an information session followed by a 1:1 chat with a tutor. During the information session, you will receive important details about the course structure and expectations, along with a chance to ask any questions. This is crucial to ensure you understand the course fully and how it aligns with your goals. 

Will the course suit me? 

This course is a great fit if you: 

  • Enjoy practical, hands-on work as well as problem-solving 

  • Are curious about how things work and how they’re made 

  • Like maths, science, and applying them to real-world projects 

  • Pay attention to detail and enjoy working safely and accurately 

  • If you want an active, future-focused career with excellent progression and earning potential, engineering could be the perfect path. 

Staff and facilities 

At The Sheffield College, you will learn from highly qualified staff with a wealth of experience in both academic and engineering sectors. The college offers excellent facilities to support your learning, including our newly launched Advanced Technology Centre equipped with interactive learning environments, and access to industry-standard resources.

Course enrichment 

You will have the opportunity to engage in various enrichment activities such as industry visits, guest speaker sessions, workshops, and community-based projects. You can also pursue additional qualifications such as first aid or manual handling certificates. 

For this course you will be required to buy PPE college work wear. You will need to bring your own overalls and safety boots for workshop sessions as a minimum requirement. 

All other safety equipment will be provided on an as and when needed basis. 

Student case study

“The college has helped me to gain both the academic and practical experience in engineering which helped me secure my apprenticeship. My T Level work placement, organised by the college, at Independent Forgings and Alloys also greatly helped me with my apprenticeship because I have experience in a relevant field.”

Oliver Dale - T Level Mechanical Engineering

Oliver Dale
17,010
Employed in 2026 across Sheffield
16,727
Graduate jobs predicted in Sheffield, during 2027
£40,692
Average salary

Course videos

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Key Information

Course Code
P00739
Subject Area
Engineering
Campus
Advanced Technology Centre