Delivered in collaboration with Cammell Laird. Interested in engineering? Love working with your hands or solving problems? The Aspiring Shipbuilder Programme at Wirral Met College, delivered in partnership with Cammell Laird, is your chance to step into a career that combines tradition, innovation, and exciting opportunities. This hands-on course introduces you to the world of shipbuilding and ship repair. You'll explore how ships are designed, built, and maintained — all while developing the technical and professional skills that employers are looking for.
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Course Details
You'll study both the theory and practical sides of engineering, covering topics like:
The history and future of shipbuilding- Principles of engineering technology
- Welding and metal fabrication
- Electrical and electronic systems
- CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and additive manufacturing
- Pattern development and technical drawing
As part of your course, you'll also work on your English, maths and digital skills —
essential for progressing into the world of work or further study. -
Entry Guidelines
- You will need 4 GCSE's at Grade 3 or above. One of the 4 GCSE's to be Maths or English at Grade 3 (or Functional Skill level 1) to study at this level.
- If you have a beginner/Introductory qualification in the subject you want to study and a maths or English GCSE at Grade 3 (or Functional Skill level 1) you can study at this level.
- NB If you have already gained a Level 2 in Engineering this course may not be suitable. Please contact Admissions on 0151 551 7777 to discuss in the first instance.
- Entry requirements for Level 2 courses in some sectors may be more specific. If you're unsure whether you meet these requirements, don't worry — we can help you find a suitable course that aligns with your skills and experience.
If English is not your first language, you may need an assessment before enrolling. To discuss further, please contact the ESOL department on 0151 551 7144.
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Where can I progress to?
With an established apprenticeship programme for engineers, Cammell Laird is one of the largest employers in the area.
In recent years, Cammell Laird has put hundreds of apprentices through its multi-award-winning apprenticeship programme - making it one of the biggest in the UK maritime industry. Upon successful completion of the Aspiring Shipbuilders Programme, you will have developed your knowledge and skills to make you an ideal candidate for the Cammell Laird Apprenticeship Programme. Alongside your engineering qualification, you will be supported to develop your CV and interview skills to prepare you for your application.
Successful candidates will attend The Engineering College for their apprenticeship training. Located next to the shipyard, The Engineering College is a specialist centre for engineering training. With a strong track record of success, it is recognised for its hands-on, industry-led approach to apprenticeships and technical education.
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Timetable
You will typically be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week. You will receive your individual timetable at the start of your course.
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Equipment Required
Students require the following Personal Protective Equipment to complete this course:
- Flame retardant overalls
- Steel toe capped boots
- Workshop gloves
- Welding mask
- Welding gauntlets
Financial support may be available to cover the cost of this equipment. Find out more: https://www.wmc.ac.uk/student-support/financial-support/bursaries-loans
Mahamat Nour
Engineering Student
I started with ESOL two years ago, before I joined Engineering. Since the beginning, I have had a lot of support from the college. Engineering is my dream, and I now have a conditional offer from Liverpool John Moores University for Mechanical Engineering. I would recommend Wirral Met to my friends.
