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Engineering - level 2 apprenticeship framework

This framework sets out the standards and criteria you must meet to complete the apprenticeship programme and receive your apprenticeship certificate for level two engineering. This is the only level 2 training in this skill acceptable for apprenticeshipsni funding.

About this framework

This framework specifies the standards and the criteria for the delivery of a level 2 apprenticeship framework to achieve qualified status within the engineering industry.

Successful completion of the framework will lead to the award of a level 2 qualification showing recognition as a qualified person within the industry.

Mandatory outcomes

Achievement of a level 2 apprenticeship in engineering will be assessed by verification through the appropriate awarding body.

You must complete a combination of both a competence-based and a knowledge-based qualification or a combined competence-based and knowledge-based qualification from one of the pathways, along with the essential skills below.

Mandatory essential skills

The following essential skills must be completed as part of the apprenticeship:

application of number – level 1
communication – level 1
information and communication technology (ICT) – level 1

However, any qualifications you already have are assessed against the framework requirements and may result in an exemption from the above.

Competency and knowledge qualifications – pathway options

Apprentices need to complete a competency-based and a knowledge-based qualification or a combined competence-based and knowledge-based qualification in their chosen pathway, from the lists below.

Those apprentices enrolling on a Level 3 framework with Level 2 en route, also referred to as Level 2/3, must follow 'Pathway 7 - Performing Engineering Operations' at Level 2.

Sectoral advice is that this pathway provides the most suitable preparation for all pathways of the Level 3 Engineering ApprenticeshipsNI framework.

Pathway 7 is also strongly recommended for those apprentices undertaking a standalone Level 2 apprenticeship with the intention of progressing to Level 3.

Pathway one – aeronautical engineering

Competence-based qualification:

EAL Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering 600/1028/9

Knowledge-based qualification:

Pathway two – business improvement techniques

Competence-based qualification:

Knowledge-based qualification:

Pathway three – engineering maintenance and installation

Competence-based qualification:

Knowledge-based qualification:

Pathway four – engineering technical support

Competence-based qualification:

EAL Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Engineering Technical Support 501/0372/6

Knowledge-based qualification:

Pathway five – fabrication and welding engineering

Competence-based qualification:

Knowledge-based qualification:

Pathway six – mechanical manufacturing engineering

Competence-based qualification:

Knowledge-based qualification:

Pathway seven – performing engineering operations

Competence-based qualification:

Knowledge-based qualification:

Combined competence-based and knowledge-based qualification

Pathway eight – performing manufacturing operations

Competence-based qualification:

Knowledge-based qualification:

Pathway nine – automated entrance systems

Competence-based qualification:

EAL Level 2 Diploma in Performing Engineering Operations (Northern Ireland) 603/4864/1

Knowledge-based qualification:

EAL Level 2 Diploma in Engineering Technologies 601/5669/7

Eligibility and entry to the programme

You must be employed to do this apprenticeship.

There are no formal entry requirements for learners, although employers may apply their own criteria at recruitment.

Employers and contractors must make sure that learners have the potential and opportunity to gain the apprenticeship successfully.

See also the DfE operational requirements for eligibility information.

Duration

Apprenticeship duration can vary and will be agreed between the apprentice, training contractor and employer

Related Knowledge

For this framework, you must complete a suitable employee rights and responsibilities (ERR) workbook. Framework certification is issued on confirmation from training contractors that the ERR has been completed.

Responsibilities

It is the responsibility of the training contractor/ college to make sure that all components of this framework are delivered in accordance with apprenticeshipsni operational requirements.

The apprentice must be employed from day one.

Further Information

The content of this framework (Framework Number 12 Issue 23: 05/25) has been agreed by the Department for the Economy. For further information, contact:

Department for the Economy - Apprenticeships Delivery and Performance Branch

For employers

If you want to take on an apprentice or improve the skills of your employees to help your business work better, the Apprenticeships programme could be for you.

Apprenticeships for employers
(nibusinessinfo.co.uk website)

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