Level 2
General Welder, Apprenticeship
A general welder apprenticeship is an excellent pathway for individuals seeking to establish a successful career in the field of welding. Welders are used extensively and in almost every sector of industry, including the steelwork construction sector, motor, marine, and many more. Fully certified welders can work anywhere in the world, and the monetary rewards can be significant.
This comprehensive programme offers a structured learning environment where apprentices can acquire essential knowledge and hands-on experience. Through a combination of classroom instruction and practical training, you will gain a solid foundation in welding techniques, safety protocols, and industry standards. Under the guidance of experienced mentors, you will refine skills, develop precision in your work, and gain confidence in executing various welding tasks. As you progress through the programme, you’ll become equipped with the expertise and proficiency necessary to excel in the demanding and diverse world of welding, opening doors to promising opportunities in construction, manufacturing, and other industries.
An apprenticeship provides a unique opportunity to acquire industry-specific qualifications and valuable hands-on experience while earning a salary. You’ll have the chance to work closely with experienced professionals in the engineering industry, meaning you’ll gain practical skills that make you highly employable and give you a head start in your career. We pride ourselves on our strong partnerships with key local organisations. You'll become part of our Engineering Career Excellence Hub and enjoy a host of career-boosting benefits and valuable access to potential employers. Benefit from work experience opportunities, engaging trips and tours, guest lectures from industry experts and courses designed in collaboration with employers to meet industry demands. You'll gain invaluable industry insight and create numerous networking opportunities. By the time you complete your training, you'll be fully prepared for your future career, armed with the skills and knowledge that employers value.
WHAT DOES THIS COURSE INVOLVE
Throughout the course, you will be trained and develop skills in the following:
-Produce good quality welds using two welding process/material type combinations (TIG, MMA, -MIG/MAG, FCAW) and (Carbon and Low Alloy steel, High Alloy Ferritic/Martensitic Steel, Austenitic Stainless Steel, Nickel and Nickel Alloys, Aluminium and Aluminium Alloys) in two welding positions (Downhand, Horizontal, Vertical, Overhead).
- Attain a qualification in accordance with one of the following standards: ISO 9606 / ASME IX / BS4872 / AWS D1.1, determined by the employer. N.B. These qualifications are regarded as licenses to practice welding.
- Achieve quality of work to meet international standards for dimensional and surface inspection (Visual, Magnetic Particle Inspection, and Dye Penetrant Inspection).
- Position, prepare, and check the welding equipment.
- Receive, handle, and maintain consumables.
- Prepare, check, and protect materials and work area ready for welding.
- Complete and check the finished weld ready for inspection and report to the production control system.
- Ensure that health and safety requirements are fully accounted for in all the above.
ASSESSMENT METHOD
Assessment is ongoing and uses a combination of approaches which include direct observation, assessment of practical skills, and some tests of knowledge as well.
FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES
There are numerous pathways for general welders who may wish to pursue higher-level careers in welding. These include progression to a multi-positional welder, high integrity welder or welding instruction and teaching, welding inspection, and managing and supervising welding operations.
Many apprentices are employed full-time by the business they complete their apprenticeship with.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
The candidate will be required to successfully achieve qualifications at level 1 in English and mathematics and to have taken examinations at level 2, for both subjects, within the period of apprenticeship if not already achieved.
To be an apprentice, you will need to find a suitable employer. Click here for advice: How to Apply for an Apprenticeship | Weston College
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