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ApprenticeshipLevel 3

Machining Technician, Level 3

Develop precision machining skills in a role using conventional and computer-controlled equipment.

Your learning, in focus

What you’ll do

  1. Set up machines

    Prepare machine tools and adjust settings for CNC manufacturing.

  2. Programme & produce

    Create or change programmes and check manufactured components.

  3. Maintain accuracy

    Report faults and develop technical accuracy and communication.

Read the full course content

This apprenticeship is intended for people employed in CNC manufacturing. Work includes preparing machine tools, adjusting settings, creating or changing programs, checking components and reporting faults. Learning develops technical accuracy, communication and cooperation with colleagues, customers and quality teams.

Entry requirements

Academic criteria below apply to applicants under 19.

Alternative entry routes

GCSEs

9–4

Grades

  • English and Maths
or

Alternative qualification

Level 2

Functional Skills

  • English and Maths

Confirm individual requirements with the apprenticeship team.

Full entry requirements

Applicants younger than 19 need English and maths GCSEs at grades 9-4, or Functional Skills Level 2 in both subjects. Confirm individual requirements with the college.

Talk to us about your qualifications

How you’ll be assessed

  • Assignments & practical tests
  • Workplace evidence
  • Practical task & questions
  • Portfolio discussion

Assessment includes assignments, practical tests and workplace evidence. The final assessment involves an observed practical task with questions and a discussion informed by a portfolio.

Where it could lead

Potential roles include machining technician, gear cutter and precision engineer. Discuss suitable further training with the college.

Fees, funding & support

Apprentice tuition

£0

Apprentices do not pay for their apprenticeship training. Your employer and the college agree the funding.

  • Travel to college may cost extra.

College course fees (opens a new tab)Apprenticeship funding guidance (opens a new tab)Checked

Learning through employment

An apprenticeship combines a job with structured training. You can register your interest if you already have an employer, or if you need help finding an opportunity.

About this course information

These course details summarise the college’s published course page, checked on 1 November 2026.

The level shown comes from the college’s course information.

The campus for this course still needs confirmation.

The college’s fee information includes wording that appears to refer to a different qualification. Please confirm any charges with the college.

Read the fees and funding section for published charges and conditions. Ask the college to confirm what applies to your circumstances.

Read the college’s course page (opens a new tab)

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