You are viewing the details for the course:

Metal Fabricator Apprenticeship Level 3

Marketing Title
01/08/2000
Format
31/07/2099
Format
Level 3
Part-Time
APS30399 (RORO)
Nelson and Colne College / Accrington and Rossendale College
Unable To Enrol Message

Course Information

Course Information
The Level 3 Metal Fabricator Apprenticeship provides the advanced skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed to work in one of the most vital trades within engineering and manufacturing. Fabricators are responsible for carrying out metal fabrication work using a wide range of materials, including steel, aluminium, and titanium, at thicknesses ranging from 0.5mm to over 20mm.

You will learn to produce fabrications of all sizes, from components small enough to lift by hand to large-scale structures requiring cranes to move. Your work will contribute to industries as diverse as construction, oil and gas, shipbuilding, petrochemicals, aerospace, automotive, and machinery manufacturing.

This apprenticeship develops expertise in shaping, cutting, welding, and assembling metal fabrications to precise specifications. By completion, you will be fully equipped to take on complex and highly skilled fabrication tasks, preparing you for a rewarding career in an industry where your skills are essential to creating structures, machinery, and vehicles used worldwide.
Health, Safety and Environmental Awareness – working safely in fabrication environments.

Engineering Drawings and Specifications – interpreting technical documents with accuracy.

Fabrication Skills – cutting, shaping, welding, and assembling a wide range of metals.

Material Knowledge – working with steel, aluminium, and titanium at different thicknesses.

Welding and Joining Techniques – producing precise and durable joins.

Handling Fabrications – working with components from small items to large-scale structures.

Quality Control – checking work against required standards and specifications.

Professional Behaviours – teamwork, problem-solving, and communication within engineering industries.
The apprenticeship is delivered through a blend of on-the-job learning in the workplace and off-the-job training at college. In your role, you will gain hands-on experience fabricating metal components, guided by experienced professionals. At college, you will attend structured sessions focused on technical knowledge, welding, and fabrication processes.

Training is highly practical, taking place in specialist fabrication workshops equipped with industry-standard machinery and tools. Learning is further supported through classroom study, tutorials, and mentoring. Regular reviews and workplace visits by Trainer Assessors ensure your progress is monitored and that you apply your learning effectively to real-world projects.
You will need to have achieved at least 5 GCSE passes at Grade 5 or above to enrol, including Maths and/or English.
Workplace observations to assess your practical fabrication skills

Written assignments and knowledge tests to demonstrate technical understanding

Portfolio completion showcasing your progress and achievements

Regular reviews with your employer and Trainer Assessor

End Point Assessment (EPA) – independently assessed, and may include a practical skills test, professional discussion, and knowledge test
We are an Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ College, recognised for excellence in technical education.

Apprentices benefit from Trainer Assessors with extensive industry experience in fabrication and welding.

The programme has been developed with employers, ensuring training meets the demands of modern engineering.

Apprentices feel supported and encouraged, enabling them to develop confidence and succeed in this highly skilled trade.

Strong links with employers across construction, engineering, and manufacturing provide excellent opportunities for progression.
Completing the Level 3 Metal Fabricator Apprenticeship opens up career opportunities across a wide range of industries. Typical roles include Metal Fabricator, Welder, or Structural Fabricator, working in sectors such as construction, shipbuilding, oil and gas, aerospace, and automotive.

With experience, you could progress into specialist areas such as Coded Welding, Pipe Fabrication, or Precision Engineering, or move into supervisory roles such as Team Leader or Workshop Supervisor. Many apprentices continue their studies with higher-level qualifications, such as HNC/HND in Engineering, supporting progression into design, project management, or leadership roles in the sector.
As a Metal Fabricator apprentice, you will benefit from access to specialist fabrication and welding facilities. These include dedicated fabrication workshops equipped with industry-standard tools, machinery, and welding equipment, designed to replicate real-world engineering environments.

You will also have access to the Learning Resource Centre, offering technical texts, journals, and online resources to support your studies. These facilities provide the perfect environment to develop advanced fabrication skills.
ONLINE_LEARNING_IMAGE
ONLINE_LEARNING_IMAGE