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AAQ Engineering

At St Edward’s, our AAQ Level 3 Engineering course will equip you with the skills to understand the core principles and technologies that underpin modern engineering. It will provide you with opportunities to develop sound practical engineering investigation, design, construction, and testing skills which are critical to this sector.

Why Study AAQ Level 3 Engineering?

Albert Einstein said, "Scientists investigate that which already is; Engineers create that which has never been".  Engineering covers a wide range of disciplines – anything from rockets to mobile phones and even hip replacements! Engineering is not just about ‘fixing things’ it is about understanding how, and why things work. Engineers are involved in all aspects of designing, building, and testing new technologies and products. Creativity and problem solving are at the heart of every engineering industry. 

AAQ Level 3 Engineering is a great choice if you are interested in learning the basics needed for most engineering sectors. It provides the opportunity to develop knowledge and skills in the design, development and manufacture and maintenance of engineering products and systems. Learning is achieved through the completion of projects, assignments and sitting exams based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands.

Course Contact

Miss Chloe Duke
Technology Subject Leader

Course Content

We use the Edexcel exam board to deliver Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Engineering. The course is made up of 4 units, with 2 being delivered each year;

Unit 1: Engineering Principles
This is an externally set exam (2.5 hours) taken at the end of Year 12. Learners apply mathematical and physical science principles to solve electrical, electronic and mechanical-based engineering problems through; 

  • Algebraic and trigonometric mathematical methods 

  • Single-phase alternating current 

  • Magnetism and electromagnetic induction 

  • Static and direct current electricity and circuits 

  • Fluid engineering systems 

  • Static and dynamic engineering systems 

Unit 2: Engineering Applications
This is an externally set exam (2 hours) taken in Year 12.  The exam contains a mixture of multiple-choice, short and long answer questions that will assess your understanding of engineering materials, processes and the impact of technological developments on a range of engineering sectors.

Unit 3: Engineering Design
This is an internally assessed unit over the course of 32 hours in year 13 following an externally set brief. You will apply skills learnt in year 12 on CAD to design 3D models and 2D detailed drawings using CAD systems such as, SolidWorks and 2D Design. 

Unit 10: Engineering Project
This is an internally assessed unit over the course of 30 hours in Year 13 following an externally set brief, in which you will apply the skills of project management processes in engineering products from concept to solution.

Where can this take you?

After studying BTEC Level 3 Engineering at St Edward’s, you could progress on to study engineering at university, to an engineering apprenticeship, or other vocational work. Students have also gone on to study Architecture, Finance and Social Work. 

The Engineering world is massive, studying BTEC Level 3 Engineering can support careers in: Formula 1 mechanic, Car designer, Civil Engineer, Architect, Product Designer, Aerospace Engineer, Biomedical Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Environmental Engineer, to name but a few.

Student Destinations 

  • University of Southampton - Acoustical Engineering 
  • University of West of England - Aerospace Engineering
  • University of Sheffield - Mechanical Engineering 
  • Apprenticeship with ATLAS ELEKTRONIK UK 
  • Apprenticeship with Eaton Mission Systems 

Student Testimonials

"Engineering is a subject that can be challenging but I have loved it the more I did it."

Josh, KS5 Engineering student

"Even though Engineering has nothing to do with the career I want to follow I have really enjoyed the course and learnt skills in teamwork, problem solving, and developed my maths skills which will help me in the future."

Angelina, KS5 Engineering student 

"There has been a wide variety of visits to both local and national companies as well as to Bournemouth University which has helped me understand the course and how it relates to the real world."

Tom, KS5 Engineering student