Engineering Futures
- Duration:-
- Mode:-
- Starting:-
- SCQF level:-
- Cost:-
Engineering Futures
Overview
Engineering Futures, delivered in partnership with Cairnhill Structures, is a great way to begin your journey into the world of engineering. You’ll learn practical, hands-on skills like welding, fabrication, manufacturing, CAD (computer design), robotics and digital technologies, alongside the basics of mechanical and electrical engineering. You’ll also build confidence in maths, health and safety and key life and work skills. Each week, you’ll work with industry and gain short qualifications, helping you understand what employers are looking for and preparing you for further study, an apprenticeship or your first job in engineering.
Entry
You should have National 4 qualifications or something similar. National 5 Mathematics is desirable.
If you are an adult applicant, we will take your work experience and previous learning into account.
Every application is reviewed on an individual basis to make sure the course is a good fit for you.
Learn
The course is delivered over four days, with three days in college and one day on placement.
Programme Structure
Throughout the course, you will cover the following:
- Computer Aided Design (CAD): Introduction to engineering drawing, use of industry-standard CAD software, Producing and interpreting technical drawings
- Fabrication Skills: Safe use of hand and machine tools, sheet metalwork and forming techniques, assembly and finishing processes
- Practical Welding: Health and safety in welding environments, introduction to MIG, TIG and MMA processes, producing welded joints to basic industry standards
- Manufacturing Skills: Introduction to workshop processes, measurement, marking out and quality checks, operation of manufacturing equipment
- Mechanical and Electrical Fundamentals: Principles of force, motion and energy, simple circuits and electrical components, application of mechanical and electrical knowledge to practical tasks
- Robotics and Digital Skills: Introduction to automation and robotics, programming basics for robotic systems, understanding digital technologies in modern industry
- Numeracy and Mathematics in Context: Measurement, tolerances and scaling, use of formulae in engineering applications, problem solving through applied mathematics
Metaskills Development
Metaskills are the higher-level skills that support adaptability, employability and lifelong learning. They are embedded throughout the course and include:
- Self-management – planning, organisation and resilience in practical and academic tasks
- Social intelligence – teamwork, communication and relationship building
- Innovation – creativity, problem-solving and adapting to change
Wellbeing Support
An enhanced feature of the programme is a dedicated focus on student wellbeing. This will be supported via our Wellbeing Academy focusing on mental, physical and financial health. Regular sessions will support learners to build resilience, manage stress and maintain a healthy balance between study, personal life and career planning. This ensures learners are supported holistically throughout their journey.
Industry Engagement
Learners will participate in weekly business engagement activities. These include guest speakers, site visits, industry-led workshops and completion of short, sector-recognised qualifications. This ensures learners gain current industry knowledge and experience, building confidence and enhancing employability.
