Qualification

Skills for Work National 5 (SCQF Level 5)

Interests

  • Engineering

Why take this course?

Engineering is a well-established industry with a number of qualifications available ranging from National Qualifications and SVQs to university degrees.

This course is a nationally recognised qualification that will give you a broad introduction to engineering, helping you decide which discipline you may be interested in progressing to on leaving school. You will develop essential practical skills in the workshop, as well as skills identified as important by employers – excellent preparation for progressing towards further study or employment. During the course you will:

  • Develop technical knowledge, skills and understanding in Engineering;
  • Develop an awareness of key health and safety issues;
  • Develop and learn to apply practical, technical and communication skills;
  • Develop aspects of the Core Skill of Working with Others;
  • Develop good practice in maintaining a tidy and safe work environment;
  • Be prepared for further learning opportunities, study and training in the field of Engineering.

What you will experience

Teaching will take the form of practical, hands–on activities in a workshop environment, combined with classroom-based theory lessons. Classes will take place in a workshop at the College’s Fraserburgh or Aberdeen Altens Campus, or in a school setting.

This course is made up of the following four units:

  1. Mechanical & Fabrication
  2. Electrical & Electronic
  3. Maintenance
  4. Design and Manufacture

You will be introduced to workshop safety, the tools and equipment used in the industry and will then progress to the development of basic essential skills required in the industry. The course will also equip you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision on progression pathways, whilst giving you the opportunity to develop the important employability skills.

You will experience a variety of teaching methods and practical activities, and will be taught in workshops and classrooms at College or in a local school, depending on your location. Throughout the course you will be offered an opportunity to review and identify how your skills are developing. You will be expected to demonstrate:

  • Good time keeping skills;
  • A safe approach to working in a workshop environment;
  • A willingness and commitment to learning and an interest in engineering;
  • A knowledge of appropriate dress, in particular Personal Protective Equipment (PPE);
  • An ability to work independently;
  • Planning and preparation skills;
  • An ability to establish/maintain good working relationships with others;
  • Problem solving skills.

To achieve the full qualification, you must attend regularly and successfully complete all units. Assessment will be based on a range of practical activities in the workshop, and Assessors will watch you undertake various tasks. Please note that you will be expected to demonstrate an awareness of health and safety throughout. The course will show on your final SQA Certificate as a National 5 qualification.