Level 3 Diploma Suite Agricultural Engineering (FT)

Level 3 Diploma Suite Agricultural Engineering

Course Length: 1 or 2 years

Venue:
Myerscough College (Preston)

• Course Content
• How to Apply

Click to Apply: Level 3 Edexcel Diploma Suite Agricultural Engineering (Preston)

Brief Description of the Course:

(NB: All programmes are based on credit accumulation. Each unit of study is worth either 5 or 10 credits towards the total amount needed to achieve the qualification).

The College offers an opportunity to study at level 3 (A level equivalent) for students who wish to develop a comprehensive understanding of Land-based Mechanisation - encompassing practical techniques, academic knowledge and technical skills. It is a popular option for both school leavers and successful Level 2 Diploma students. The course incorporates a mix of practicals, classroom lectures, industry visits and case study exercises, including assessment in practicals and written assignments.

For learners with 4 GCSE’s including English Language at Grade C, the Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma has 6 units (60 Credits) of study and makes up the first year of the Level 3 Diploma qualification, 12 units (120 Credits) for learners that wish to study for 1 or 2 years. Students wishing to do the Level 3 Diploma over 2 years must have 4 GCSE’s at Grade C or above including English Language and Maths or Science or another Level 2 qualification at Merit level with a Key Skill at Level 2.

Applicants with at least 5 GCSE’s at Grade C or above including English Language, Maths and Science or course specific (which could include Chemistry, Combined Science, Biology, Physics or PE etc.) will be able to apply for the Level 3 Extended Diploma studied over 2 years requiring successful completion of 18 or more units (180 Credits).

Students will also receive training and assessment in a large range of additional qualifications, which will enhance their employability such as welding, tractor driving, manual handling and quad bikes (subject to change).

This unique course offers the opportunity to learn how to repair, maintain and modify land-based machinery and how to manage them. In addition, elements of a wide range of agricultural areas of manufacture and machinery management will be covered. In only two years you will have the opportunity to achieve a level of competence to meet the requirements of the industry. Additional qualifications are available to all students. These include certification in welding, tractor driving and quad bikes.

Entry Criteria:

These courses give a good technical training and education providing a vocational alternative to A Levels and the opportunity for successful students to progress to Higher Education. Students are normally aged 16 or over and the following requirements are needed:

Advanced Level 3 Suite:

¨ Level 3 BTEC Subsidiary Diploma - (60 credits in 1 year)

4 GCSEs including English Language at Grade C or above, or a Level 2 qualification (eg First Diploma at Pass level including at least 1 key skill at level 2 in either Application of Number or Communication), or equivalent qualifications.

Entry Criteria (Cont):

¨ Level 3 BTEC Diploma - (120 credits in 2 years)

4 GCSEs at Grade C or above, including at least 1 in English Language and Maths or Science or a Level 2 qualification (eg First Diploma at Merit level including at least 1 key skill at level 2 in either Application of Number or Communication), or equivalent qualifications.

¨ Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma - (180 credits in 2 years)

5 GCSEs at Grade C or above including Maths and English Language plus one course specific GCSE such as Science, Biology or PE or an Intermediate Level course (eg First Diploma at Distinction including at least 1 key skill at level 2 in either Application of Number or Communication), or equivalent qualifications.

In addition Learning Areas may apply specific agreed aptitude assessments that assist selection.

Applicants for all courses in Mechanisation Studies are expected to show a strong commitment to the industry and a strong personal statement.

List of Units:

¨ Understanding and Working with Land-based Vehicle Engine Technology – During this module you will gain an understanding of the principles, maintenance and overhaul of modern internal combustion engines.

¨ Land-based Engineering Operations - Service and Repair of Engines and Components – This module includes all regular maintenance including repairing faults and damage in the engine

¨ Understanding Health, Safety and Welfare in the Land-based Engineering Workplace - This module will develop the understanding and skills needed to apply health and safety in the industry, an essential requirement of all Land-based engineering activities.

¨ Understanding Land-based Vehicle Chassis Systems – To have an understanding of the working principles of brakes, suspension and steering systems found in land-based vehicles.

¨ Operate and Service Land-based Vehicle Transmission Systems – This module focuses on transmission, steering, suspension and braking systems.

¨ Undertaking Land-based Workshop Practice – An introduction to joining a variety of materials by a selection of different methods, e.g. welding, riveting, screwing and adhesion.

¨ Understanding and Servicing Land-based Harvesting Machinery (Cutting and Lifting) – To have an understanding of the working principles of field equipment used in harvesting a selection of crops. This includes use of the equipment in the field.

¨ Understanding and Servicing Land-based Harvesting Machinery (Processing) – To have an understanding of the working principles of field equipment used in harvesting and processing a selection of crops. This includes use of the equipment in the field.

¨ Working with Land-based Diesel Fuel Injection Systems - This module focuses on the removal, strip down, assembly and testing of conventional fuel injection systems. This includes an introduction to common rail injection system.

¨ Understanding and Working with Land-based Machinery (Cultivation and Planting Equipment) – To have an understanding of the work principles of field equipment used in preparing a seedbed and in planting a commercial crop.

¨ Service and Repair Pneumatics Systems and Components for Land-based Equipment - Learners will develop the practical skills needed to maintain, test and repair pneumatic systems used on land-based vehicles and equipment. They will then focus on the understanding the construction and operation of pneumatic systems used on land-based vehicles and equipment.

¨ Service and Repair Hydraulics Systems and Components for Land-based Equipment - Learners will develop the practical skills needed to maintain, test and repair hydraulic systems used on land-based vehicles and equipment. They will then focus on the understanding the construction and operation of hydraulics systems used on land-based vehicles and equipment.

¨ Inspect and Test Land-based Machinery and Equipment – To have an understanding of how vehicle faults are found and rectified, based on knowledge gained in other related modules.

¨ Undertake and Review Work Related Experience in the Land-based Industries – You need to work in the industry for a minimum of 400 hours. You are required to write a report on the business you are working for.

¨ Business Management in the Land-based Sector – To have an understanding of how a small business should operate, including balance sheets, VAT, PAYE, loans, etc.

¨ Service and Repair Electrical Systems on Land-based Equipment – To have an understanding of basic aspects of electrical equipment used in Land-based vehicles, including all modern-related computer technology.

¨ Undertake an Investigative Project in the Land-based Sector – You will be asked to invent or modify an existing idea for use in the Land-based industry, to present a portfolio and model to a panel of people currently working in the industry.

¨ Working with Land-based Machinery (Application Equipment) - To have an understanding of equipment used in the land-based industry for applying fertiliser and chemicals.

¨ Undertaking 4WD Vehicle Maintenance, Operation and Recovery - You will gain an understanding of the operational techniques used in off-road vehicles for traction and stability. This will include vehicle recovery in soft ground.

Assessments:

Assessments will include assignments, presentations and reports.

Possible Careers / Jobs:

Employment opportunities in Land-based Mechanisation and its related industries are currently very good. The Subsidiary, Diploma and Extended Diploma Land-based Mechanisation provides the qualification and experience for entry into the industry at a technical level, with future prospects for entry into management.

Progression:

As a course equivalent to A Level the Level 3 BTEC Diploma is an ideal spring board for progression to a Foundation Degree or Full Degree depending on UCAS points gained.

Special Requirements:

Extra Costs: PPE (can be purchased with the College logo during the first 6 weeks of the course). Stationery. Some transport costs to shows. Opportunity to join Car Club.

To apply for this course please select the coloured tab, relating to the centre you wish to study at, on the right hand side of this screen. You can save your progress if you prefer to do it in stages but you must complete all sections of the form.

Special Education Needs and Disability Prospective students who have a disability that may affect their studies should inform the College as soon as possible. Reasonable adjustments will be made to accommodate student needs and to provide appropriate support to enable successful completion of the course of study. Where necessary students will be asked for evidence to help identify appropriate adjustments.

Please note that the information provided in this fact sheet was accurate at the date of publication. However, courses are continually being modified and information is therefore subject to change.