Assesment Methods
There are no exams. Your knowledge and skills are assessed on an on-going basis and you will have to demonstrate that you can meet the required standards throughout your training. There will however, be examinations for the additional qualifications, such as City & Guilds or BTEC Technical Certificates and Functional Skills (if required).
Progression Options
The apprenticeship spans multiple pathways, allowing you to specialize in areas that align with your interests and career goals. The pathways include: 1. Maintenance: • Overview: This role can cover either mechanical, electrical, electronic, or fluid power work, or a combination of them. You will develop a knowledge of maintenance planning, diagnostic and fault finding techniques, and safe working practices. 2. Mechanical Manufacturing: • Overview: Produce individual components, sub-assemblies or completed assemblies using mechanical manufacturing. You will develop a knowledge of specific equipment operating parameters and mechanical manufacturing techniques. 3. Electrical and Electronic: • Overview: Assemble and test a range of electrical components, understanding cable types and where they should be used, electrical and electronic assembly, and testing techniques. 4. Fabrication: • Overview: Shape and join materials, produce components, and carryout quality checks in a fabricating environment. You will learn marking out, preparation, fabrication, and joining techniques. Program Structure: For the first year of the 18 month program, apprentices are required to attend college for two days per week. This balance between on-the-job training and classroom instruction ensures a well-rounded education that combines practical experience with theoretical knowledge. Why Choose Our Apprenticeship Program? • Industry-Driven Curriculum: Our program aligns with the latest industry standards, ensuring you acquire the skills in demand by employers. • Experienced Faculty: Learn from experienced instructors who bring real-world expertise into the classroom. • Pathway Flexibility: Tailor your apprenticeship journey by choosing from multiple pathway options. • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access cutting-edge technology and equipment to enhance your practical skills, with our flagship facility, the Energy Skills Centre, and the brand-new Advanced Engineering Centre, built in 2017. Embark on your engineering career journey with us and gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to excel in the dynamic field of engineering. Apply now to secure your spot in our sought-after apprenticeship program!
Frequently Asked Questions
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
Accommodation is mainly based at Cannington College and is primarily utilised by Cannington and Bridgwater students. We also have a limited number of independent living Higher Education flats in Taunton.
Accommodation caters for Further Education (16-18 year olds) and Higher Education degree students (18+ years). Accommodation is allocated based on age, and the two age groups are accommodated in different lodges. The limited number of Taunton flats are only offered students over the age of 18.
Our accommodation is staffed 24/7 and there is always support to be found in the Residential Office. Residential students will be made aware of where and how to find staff for maintenance, wellbeing, financial, and any other concerns they may have.
Students in accommodation have a variety of social, enrichment and engagement activities that they can participate in. Activities are run everyday and there is a team of activity officers that run these. These activities may be on-site or off-site, and they cater to a variety of interests. Student suggestions for activities are encouraged and welcomed – students can simply contact an Accommodation Officer or visit a shared student space for more information.
Yes, the college offers an initial information session followed by up to six counselling sessions with our professional, qualified counsellors or counsellors in training. This service is confidential and easily accessible for students in need. To contact the Counselling Team directly, please email counsellingservice@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk.
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.