GNVQ Engineering

The qualification provides a sound basis for advanced level study and progression into vocational training. It is a three-unit qualification (the units are same regardless of awarding body offering the qualification). The units, which are equally weighted, are:

Unit 1: Design and Graphical Communication

The Unit is about the process of designing. Students will learn about the following aspects of the design process:

Analysing client design briefs
Key features include: product function; quality standards; styling aesthetics; product performance; intended markets; maintenance; production methods and materials; costs; regulations; scale of production.

Developing design specifications and solutions and applying scientific principles
Key features include: research and analysis of information and data; recognition and use of structures; generation of ideas and solutions; evaluation of ideas, testing and modifications; 2D and 3D drawing and sketching; modeling techniques.

Producing and reading engineering drawings
Key features include: recognition and use of standard symbols; drawing projections; block, flow, circuit and schematic diagrams; assembly and exploded diagrams.

Selecting appropriate drawing techniques
Key features include: working and manufacturing drawings; service and repair drawings; assembly drawings.

Communicating a design solution
Key features include: justifying design choices; showing details of final designs; responding to feedback and modifying designs to meet client needs

Unit 2: Engineered Products

In this Unit, students will make an engineering product, to develop understanding of the process of design and product specification. The key aspects covered are:

Using product specifications, reading and interpreting engineering drawings and diagrams
Key features include: recognition of information such as size, shape and form; materials, parts and components; process methods; quantity required; timescales

Selecting suitable materials, parts and components
Key features include: consideration and knowledge of the properties of materials such as ferrous and non-ferrous metals, plastics, ceramics, composites; functions of different parts and components such as bolts, screws, springs, fasteners, drive mechanisms, electrical and electronic components, pneumatic and hydraulic components.

Creating a production plan
Key features include: consideration of materials, processes and tools to be used; sequence of operations; scheduling; quality inspection; health and safety factors; modifications to plans.

Using processes, tools and equipment, including computer-aided manufacture
Key features include: material removal techniques such as drilling, turning, milling, grinding and etching; shaping and manipulation; joining and assembly, including welding, brazing, soldering, adhesive bonding, threaded fasteners; heat and chemical treatments; surface finishing.

Quality assurance
Key features include: measurement of dimensions; tolerances; fit; finish; performance; quality.

Applying Health and Safety procedures
Key features include: taking care of oneself and others in the engineering environment; use of appropriate clothing and safety equipment; risk assessments; health and safety procedures; maintenance of tools and equipment

Unit 3: Application of Technology

In this Unit, students will investigate the impact of modern technology on the design and manufacture of a range of products in different engineering and manufacturing sectors. Students will also learn about the benefits and implications that modern technology has for the workforce, the wider community, the global environment and sustainability. The key aspects covered are:

Impact of information and communications technology
Key topics include the use of information and communications technology for data management, computer-aided design and manufacture (CAD/CAM) and control technology.

Impact of new components and modern materials
Materials to be considered include polymers, including adhesives and coatings; metals and composites; biological, chemical and food products; microprocessor and memory devices; micro-electronic components; textile technology.

Impact of control technology
Key topics include the use of systems and control technology to organise, monitor and control production, such as process and quality control and automation; robotics; integrated manufacturing systems.