Following their introduction to the world of engineering and manufacture in key stage 3 many students choose to continue studying Engineering at key stage 4 where they follow the OCR Cambridge Nationals Engineering Manufacture Level 1/2 Award/Certificate course. 

Students study three units which make up the course content:

• Unit 1 (R014) Principles of engineering manufacture.
• Unit 2 (R015) Manufacturing a one-off product.
• Unit 3 (R016) Manufacturing in quantity.

The types of tasks that are completed are:

• Making products and components in metal.
• Machine setting and tool maintenance.
• Complete standard operating procedures and risk assessments before completing a project. 
• Use of lathes and milling machines to close tolerances.
• Use of hand and bench tools to produce quality outcomes.
• Create CAD models which will be used to create parts using the CNC or 3-D printer.  

The course is assessed through:

• Controlled Assessment - Units 2 and 3 are assessed internally through controlled assessment and make up 60% of the final grade.
• Examination - Unit 1: Principles of Engineering Manufacture is assessed via a written examination worth 40% of the final grade.

The award is graded Level 2 Pass, Merit, Distinction, Distinction *, or Level 1.

Students who study Engineering can go on to gain employment in a variety of Engineering or Manufacturing roles, including Engineering Technician, Maintenance Fitter and Manufacturing Operative. The course also provides a pathway into apprenticeships and further studies.

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