Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements, but the course is best suited to first and second-year craft apprentices.
Why take this course?
This is a day release programme suited to first and second year apprentices. It is mainly practice-based at ‘craft’ level, and was formerly known as NC in Engineering Practice (Welding/Fabrication). The main aim of the course is to develop your fabrication and welding knowledge in direct relation to manual skills.
Please note that the course is completed over 2 years at our Aberdeen Altens Campus, whereas the full award is offered in 1 year at our Fraserburgh Campus.
What you will experience
The course addresses solving fabrication and welding engineering problems with practical solutions, and includes a range of workshop activities. You will explore a range of topics, including:
- Communications
- Numeracy
- Manual Metal Arc Welding
- Sheetmetal
- Pattern Development
- CAD
Key Facts
Everything you need to know before applying for this course.
What you will need
You will need a scientific calculator, appropriate stationery and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Fee Waiver (Remission of Fees)
Your course may be free if you are not a full time student with NESCol and you are: in receipt of benefits; or care-experienced; or your household taxable income falls below defined levels.
Student Stories
Andrius Chomcenka
Engineering
HND Mechanical Engineering
“Whether you’re coming straight from school or returning later like me, NESCol opens doors.”
Read more about Andrius's story
Krystian Pezik
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HNC Mechanical Engineering
“College offers an active lifestyle, the opportunity to meet interesting people, and the chance to develop new skills that will be useful in everyday life.”
Read more about Krystian's story
Eva Rosie
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Shell Engineering Scheme
“The staff are supportive, the facilities are well-equipped, and I’ve felt encouraged throughout my studies.”
Read more about Eva's story
Marius Visniakovas
Engineering
HNC Electrical Engineering
“I’ve gone from student to skilled technician in a cutting-edge industry and I’m just getting started.”
Read more about Marius's story
Lukasz Szpaderski
Engineering
HNC Electrical Engineering
“NESCol has a strong ethic for providing quality education which worked well with my apprenticeships.”
Read more about Lukasz's story
Logan Skene
Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Modern Apprenticeship
“I enjoyed my days in College. The staff were helpful and friendly and it was good to see my classmates each week.”
Read more about Logan's story
Angus Noble
Engineering
Shell Engineering Scheme
“The first year went by fast as the class gelled together quickly and became a community that helped each other out, while having a laugh at the same time.”
Read more about Angus's story
Chris Kelly
Engineering
OPITO NC Multi Discipline Engineering (Process)
“In my opinion, NESCol has one of the best reputations in the UK for providing engineering courses with second-to-none instructors.”
Read more about Chris's story
Hannah Gibb
Engineering
Engineering: Wind Turbine Technician (WT) Pathway
“I’m driven by feeling like I’m contributing to something important, and renewable energy is a growing and exciting sector to be involved in.”
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Stephanie Fenty
Engineering
Shell Engineering Scheme
“It’s a great industry to work in – there’s loads of pathways and opportunities. Engineering is about problem solving and teamwork and seeing how things work.”
Read more about Stephanie's story
Applications
Those applying for Year 1 of a part-time NC, HNC or HND level course will require pre-entry guidance before booking on to their course. Call or drop into your local Student Advice Centre, or email studentadvice@nescol.ac.uk.
Please note the offering at our Fraserburgh Campus is the full award offered in 1 year.
Aberdeen Altens Campus
Starts26 Aug 2026
Ends09 Jun 2027
Duration36 weeks
DayWednesday
Time8:45am - 4:00pm
Course CodeC00310
Alternatively, you can complete a part-time booking form and send it to us.
Companies can book their employees onto this course.
Aberdeen Altens Campus
Starts26 Aug 2026
Duration36 weeks
Course CodeC00310
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