Engineering Practice: NC (Level 5) (Day Release)

What you will learn

The NC Engineering Practice (SCQF Level 5) provides a comprehensive and practical syllabus designed to support apprentices in developing the knowledge, skills and behaviours required in modern engineering roles. 

Throughout the programme, apprentices will study a broad range of subjects, including:

• Communications – developing clear and effective communication skills for engineering and workplace contexts
• Mathematics – applying mathematical techniques to engineering calculations and problem solving
• Engineering Health & Safety – understanding safe working practices, legislation and risk control in engineering environments
• ICT – using digital technologies to support engineering tasks, documentation and communication
• Computer Aided Draughting (CAD) – producing, reading and interpreting technical drawings
• Engineering Materials – identifying materials, properties and applications used in engineering manufacture and maintenance
• Electrical Principles – understanding fundamental electrical concepts and systems
• Electrical Wiring Skills – developing practical competence in electrical installation and wiring techniques
• Pipe Skills – gaining hands on experience in pipework and associated engineering practices
• Workshop Skills – building practical skills, accuracy and safe working practices in a workshop environment
• Pneumatics and Hydraulics – understanding and working with fluid power systems
• Electrical Testing and Measurement – carrying out testing, measurement and fault finding safely and accurately

The syllabus is intentionally multi disciplinary, covering both mechanical and electrical engineering skills. This reflects the realities of today’s engineering workplaces, where operatives are expected to apply a broad skill set across different systems and technologies.

While the course provides a wide technical foundation, apprentices can still work towards a single discipline Modern Apprenticeship (for example, Mechanical or Electrical) alongside successful completion of the NC Engineering Practice.

Entry requirements

✅ Applicants should be employed and working towards a Modern Apprenticeship In Engineering. 

ℹ️ All applicants must be 16 years or over by 30 September of the course year.

ℹ️ For this course, if English is not your first language

• you need to have SQA ESOL National 5 (or equivalent, click here to see equivalent qualifications)
• If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment  here at the College.

Career Opportunities

This course supports progression into a wide range of engineering roles across sectors such as manufacturing, construction, energy, utilities, infrastructure and maintenance. The broad, multi-skilled approach reflects the needs of modern employers and helps build long-term employability.

Typical roles include:

⚙️ Engineering Operative

🔧 Mechanical Engineering Operative or Fitter

⚡ Electrical Engineering Operative or Technician

🛠️ Maintenance Engineer (Mechanical or Electrical)

🔄 Multi-Skilled Maintenance Technician

🏭 Production or Manufacturing Technician

📏 Workshop Technician

🏢 Facilities or Building Services Technician

Future prospects

On successful completion, apprentices may progress to a range of higher level engineering qualifications, subject to entry requirements, including:

• HNC Engineering or discipline specific HNCs (e.g. Mechanical, Electrical, Building Services Engineering)
• Other specialist engineering or technical qualifications at SCQF Level 6 and above

These pathways support progression towards technician level roles, further apprenticeship frameworks, or higher education.