Engineering and Manufacturing icon - 2 cogsOverview

Machinists in the Advanced Manufacturing Engineering sector are predominantly involved in highly skilled, complex and precision work, machining components from specialist materials using conventional and/or Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine tools such as centre lathes, vertical and horizontal milling machines, horizontal and cylindrical grinding machines, electro discharge machines, single and multi- axis CNC machine tools centres.

They will be expected to be able set up, operate and adjust/edit equipment settings as applicable to the machine tool being used. When using CNC equipment they will be expected to be able to produce, prove and/or edit programmes. During and on completion of the machining operations they will be expected to measure and check the components being produced and make adjustments to the equipment/programme to ensure components meet the required specification.

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  • Entry requirements
  • Level

    Level 3

  • Delivery/Study method

    A minimum of 30 hours on the job training at the work place per week including a day/block release to study theory at our Uxbridge/Hayes/Richmond or Harrow campus.

  • What will I learn?

    Specific Specialist Knowledge

    • Understand mathematical techniques, formula and calculation involved in the machining processes such as speeds and feeds, calculating angles/tapers, material removal
    • Understand the practical and theoretical uses of the machines used, and their applications
    • Understand the work-holding devices, cutting tools, and setting up procedures, in adequate depth to provide a sound basis for carrying out the activities, correcting faults and ensuring the work output is to the required specification.

    Specific Specialist Skills

    • Read and interpret relevant data and documentation used to produce machined components
    • Determine the most efficient and effective approach to machine the component using a range of tools, machining process and Techniques
    • Select and set up the correct tooling and work holding devices
    • Set and adjust the machine operating parameters to produce the work pieces to the required specification. This will involve setting feeds and speeds for roughing and finishing operations
    • Select and use a range of measuring and testing equipment to check components are to the required quality and accuracy
    • Produce complex and specialist components as a one off test and trial work piece and/or producing components in small or large batches
    • Contribute to the business by identifying possible opportunities for improving working practices, processes and/or procedures.

  • Duration and assessment

    Typically 45 months

    After a period of foundation skills and technical knowledge development all apprentices will be required to achieve the following qualifications:

    • Level 2 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Foundation Competence)
    • Level 2 Diploma in Machining (Foundation Knowledge)
    • Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Competence) - Machining
    • Level 3 Diploma in Machining (Development Knowledge)


    After a further period of skills and technical knowledge development all apprentices will be required to achieve the following qualifications:

    • Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Competence) - Machining
    • Level 3 Diploma in Machining (Development Knowledge).


    The apprentice will also be required to have a Level 2 English and maths. 

  • Where next? Career/study opportunities

    Completion of the Apprenticeship is designed to be recognised by relevant Professional Engineering Institutions at the appropriate level of professional registration (EngTech).