Engineering
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