Plate Welder Apprenticeship (Level 3)

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Land-based Engineering

Apprenticeship

Land-based Engineering

Flexible

Study Mode

Apprenticeship

Start Date, Location

September - December 2026, Flexible

Duration

36 months

Cost

£.00

per academic year.

View our facilities & work

Course Overview

The Plate Welder apprenticeship is suitable for roles across engineering, manufacturing and construction industries, where high-quality welding is required for the fabrication, installation and repair of metal structures and components. Plate welders work on major plant equipment, structural frameworks and fabricated components in a range of industrial settings.

A key feature of this apprenticeship is the opportunity to gain two industry-recognised coded welding certifications, providing evidence of competence to national and international standards and significantly enhancing employability within the welding and fabrication industry.

Employers may range from small fabrication workshops to large multinational engineering and construction organisations. This apprenticeship supports progression into specialist welding roles such as structural welder, pipe fitter or maintenance welding operative, with opportunities for professional recognition within the industry.

More information

What will I learn?

A range of knowledge, skills and behaviours are required to prepare you for your End Point Assessment (EPA). These include:

• Working safely in line with health, safety and environmental legislation.
• Interpreting technical drawings, specifications and quality documentation.
• Setting up and operating welding equipment across processes such as MMA, MIG/MAG and TIG.
• Preparing materials, consumables and equipment prior to welding.
• Producing high-quality welds on plate and structural components using a range of joint configurations and positions.
• Identifying welding defects and applying appropriate corrective techniques.
• Carrying out inspection and quality checks throughout and after welding activities.
• Understanding welding parameters, materials and processes to meet industry standards.

Entry Requirements

Apprentices who do not hold Maths & English L2 or GSCE grades 4 (C) will need to complete these prior to completion of the apprenticeship programme (Gateway).

You must have secured a position with an employer and be ready to start working with them before you can begin your apprenticeship course.

If you already have an employer and they have agreed to put you through an apprenticeship, contact the Apprenticeship team and we’ll get you started. Email apprenticeships@wiltshire.ac.uk or call 0845 345 2235.

Study, Assessment and Qualifications

This apprenticeship is delivered one day a week at our Lackham campus during term time, alongside workplace learning. You will also receive visits from your Assessor approximately every 10 to 12 weeks to review progress and support your development.

As part of the apprenticeship programme, you’ll need to record a minimum of 6 hours per week ‘off-the-job’ training. This can include college attendance, work shadowing, training, workshops, online learning, tutor sessions, revision, webinars and industry visits.

You will build a portfolio of work-based evidence through practical assessments, workplace observations and assignments. This will prepare you for your End Point Assessment (EPA), which includes a professional discussion and assessment of your competence.

On successful completion, you will achieve the Level 3 Plate Welder Apprenticeship Standard, alongside two industry-recognised coded welding certifications, significantly enhancing your employability within the welding and fabrication sector.

Additional Costs and Information

This apprenticeship lasts 36 months plus 3 months for the End Point Assessment (EPA).

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