Overview
Machining Technician (ST1305) Level 3 ApprenticeshipThe broad purpose of the occupation is to produce complex and precision work by machining components. Components are machined from metal or specialist materials using conventional or CNC machine tools.
Machining Technicians interpret information and plan their activities. They also set up, operate and adjust machine tool settings. When using CNC equipment, they can produce, prove and validate programs.
They inspect components and machinery, report issues and support continuous improvement activities.
They typically work in a manufacturing environment. An employee in this occupation will be responsible for the quality and accuracy of their work.
They also must work efficiently and be productive in the work they undertake. They must work both individually and as part of a larger team. They must work within the relevant health, safety and environmental regulations. This includes the use of appropriate protective clothing and equipment. They are responsible for the correct use and housekeeping of machinery, tools and equipment.
Apprentices will gain EAL L3 Extended diploma in Machining (Development Knowledge).
Course information
4 year programme
Year 1 – 1 day attendance
Year 2 – 1 day attendance
Year 3 – 1 day attendance
Year 4 – Workplace assessments
September 2025
July/August
Areas covered include:
- Hand Fitting
- Milling and Turning
- Engineering communication
- Properties and applications of Engineering materials, Engineering Mathematics
Knowledge, skills and behaviours developed:
- preparing work area; using health and safety controls
- Use of information and documentation, including drawings and risk assessments
- Selecting appropriate tools and work holding devices; prepare and setup Conventional machine including tool setting
- Performing machining operation; setting and adjusting operating parameters; selecting speeds and feeds; combining different operations to produce complex components with different features using one type of machine
- Work environment
- Tools and equipment
- Planning
- Machine preparation
- Manufacture complex components with features
Maths and English GCSE minimum Grade 4.
Employer to ensure workplace training is in line with the Standard’s Knowledge, skills and behaviours.
Observations, professional discussions, written job reports.
EAL L3 Extended diploma in Machining (Development Knowledge).
Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician.
Apprentices will need to ensure they have PPE for the practical workshop delivery this includes overalls, steel toecap boots, safety goggles and gloves
Central Bedfordshire College, Leighton Buzzard campus.
Downloadable sheet
How to apply
To start this Apprenticeship you will need to be employed in a relevant job role – visit the Apprenticeships section of our website, where you can view our Apprenticeship vacancies. For further information or queries you can email us or call 01234 291747.
Apprentices do not have to pay a fee to study, however the employer may be required to pay depending on their Levy entitlement/age of the candidate. For further information call 01234 291747.
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Disclaimer
Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the Website is correct, some details may be subject to change. The Bedford College Group reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.
Additional Learning Support
If you have a specific learning difficulty or disability, are deaf or hearing impaired, our Additional Learning Support team are on hand to give you assistance whenever you need it. Email: ALSteam@bedford.ac.uk or call us on 01234 291333.
Financial Support
For information regarding financial support, please visit the Financial Support section to see the support you may be entitled to apply for.
Accessibility
We have access arrangements in place to help students with disabilities or any other particular needs. Call us on 01234 291000 or 01536 413123 for more information.
Any questions?
If you would like to find out more about this or other courses, please use our Livechat below, email info@bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk or call us on 0345 658 8990.
