Occupational Profile

Welding is a way to make high strength joints between two or more parts.

Manual dexterity is essential in controlling the arc, which is used to melt metals, allowing them to fuse together to form a structurally sound weld. Welding is used extensively and in almost every sector of industry. There is a high demand for skilled General/Multi Positional Welders in areas such as: automotive, marine, transport, general fabrication, construction and many more.

General Welders produce items like components for cars; ships; rail vehicles; simple metallic containers; and steelwork for bridges, buildings and gantries. There is a highly complex range of welding skills: the different arc welding processes require different levels of manual dexterity, knowledge and skill to avoid making defective welds. There are a wide range of metallic materials that can be welded, each with different properties and behaviours.

Entry Requirements

To optimise success, candidates will typically have 3 GCSEs at Grade 3 minimum for Level 2 and 5 GCSEs, including Mathematics, English and a Science.

Duration

18 – 24 months (Level 2)

Qualifications and Studies

Level 2 – relevant knowledge and competence qualifications

Possible attainment in one of the following standards: ISO 9606 / ASME IX / AWS D1.1, as determined by the employer.

End Point Assessment

When an Employer believes an apprentice is ready for this stage, the apprentice is put forward for the  end point assessment. This includes:

End Point Assessment Elements

  • Theoretical Knowledge Test
  • Practical / Oral Examination
  • Professional Interview

End Point Assessment Grading

  • Fail
  • Pass
  • Merit