Diploma Engineering: Engineering Technical Support SCQF level 7

Awards, Certificates and Diplomas derived from the New Model Apprenticeship (NMA) process recognise competence in job-related skills and are based on standards called work situations.

The Diploma in Engineering: Engineering Technical Support at SCQF level 7 includes mandatory units covering core engineering activities, meta-skills and personal practice, and the importance of environmental good practice and sustainability. Learners will also complete three optional units.

This qualification is available through employers and training providers.

This is one of three Diplomas in Engineering at SCQF level 7:

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Why deliver this qualification

Learners will gain a nationally recognised competence-based qualification that guarantees that they have the skills, knowledge and abilities required to carry out their role successfully. Employers will also benefit from their employees being proficient.

Assessment is carried out in the workplace. This minimises any time learners need to be away from their work.

This qualification is competence-based and must be offered within a workplace environment. It can be assessed within a workplace environment or, where simulation is permitted, within a realistic working environment. The Diploma in Engineering assessment strategy provides further information on simulation in a realistic working environment and where this is permitted.

Learners can progress to a range of Engineering qualifications at SCQF level 7 or 8.

Who does this qualification suit

The Diploma in Engineering is suitable for:

  • learners who may have just left school
  • individuals who are currently in employment and who wish to obtain a formal qualification
  • individuals who are currently in employment and who wish to obtain a qualification as part of an apprenticeship programme
  • employees who wish to obtain short, continuing professional development courses

Access

Entry is at the discretion of the centre.

Candidates should be in a job or placement where they are carrying out relevant tasks and responsibilities which allow then to gather the required evidence.

No prior qualifications or knowledge are required to undertake this qualification.

Progression

The Diploma in Engineering could provide progression to:

  • an HNC/HND or PDA in an Engineering discipline or a related area
  • an SVQ or regulated qualification in an Engineering discipline or a related area
  • degree-level study at a higher education institution
  • employment in the Engineering sector

Approval

Centres with devolved authority for approval should use their own internal approval process.

Centres without devolved authority require to come forward for approval and should contact SQA’s Business Development Team for guidance.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA’s general requirements for technical/occupational competence as outlined in the Systems and Qualification Approval Guide. The specific delivery requirements are set out in the assessment strategy.

How to assess

Learners will gather evidence of their performance through normal workplace activity, in line with the requirements of the Diploma. This evidence will be assessed using usual workplace assessment methods, such as the use of portfolios or e-portfolios; observation; examining work products; testimonial evidence from witnesses; personal statements; and accreditation of prior learning.

For general information, please refer to the document Guidance on how to assess Award, Certificate and Diplomas. For detailed guidance on how to assess this particular Diploma, please refer to the assessment strategy.

Where can you take this course?

Qualification content and delivery tools

Information about the qualification(s)

Qualification Structure

Group award code: GV30 47

The Diploma in Engineering: Engineering Technical Support at SCQF level 7 consists of three mandatory units and three optional units.

For details of the units making up the Diploma, please refer to the qualification structure (47 KB).

Meta-skills

Meta-skills are transferable behaviours and abilities that help learners adapt and succeed in life, study and work. They complement technical knowledge, skills and behaviours.

For learners, meta-skills are a critical asset, supporting their ability to cope and excel in the face of change, to solve problems, to collaborate with others and to create successful futures.

The Diploma in Engineering at SCQF level 7 include a discrete meta-skills unit within which all specified evidence can be gathered.

There are three categories, each with four meta-skills:

  • Managing yourself — focus, integrity, adaptability and initiative
  • Connecting with others — communication, feeling, collaboration and leadership
  • Interacting with change — curiosity, creativity, sense-making and critical thinking

Further information on the assessment of meta-skills development is provided in the assessment strategy for this qualification.

Information about delivery, assessment, quality assurance and support material

Assessment strategy

Assessor's guidelines

Candidate Guidance and Portfolio

Apprenticeships

The Diploma is a mandatory component in the Engineering – Technical Support Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF level 7.

SQA also offers the following components of this apprenticeship:

  • National Certificate in an Engineering discipline at SCQF level 5
  • National Certificate in an Engineering discipline at SCQF level 6
  • Higher National Certificate in an Engineering discipline at SCQF level 7
  • SVQ in Performing Engineering Operations at SCQF level 5 (GR5N 22)
  • SVQ in Land-based Engineering (Agriculture) at SCQF level 5 (GP6K 22)
  • SVQ in Network Construction Operations (Water) – Repair and Maintenance at SCQF level 5 (GR7D 22)

Unit Specifications

Unit information for this qualification is available on our Unit Search.