This qualification was developed to fill an identified gap in the market for introductory level welding qualifications. It is designed to have a ‘hands on’ practical approach to introductory welding training and as such to support improved retention and attainment at Level 1. To support this hands-on approach, the knowledge aspects of the qualification are covered by a self-study pack that, with support, allows learners to learn at their own pace and retain the pack for support after the qualification is completed.

There are no pre-entry requirements for learners choosing this qualification.

Learners who wish to enter Further Education.

• Those who wish to start a career in welding engineering.
• Learners who are thinking about welding as a career but who would like some experience of the job role first.
• Those who are new to the industry or looking for a career change or wish to learn new skills.
• Those who work in another aspect of engineering and require some practical welding training.

The emphasis of the assessment of this qualification is in a ‘hands on’ approach and the final assessment of the units will take the form of practical tasks in the form of welding procedure specifications (WPS) and internally assessed knowledge tests that reflect the learning outcome titles of the units. EAL will externally quality assure the assessments. The EAL Centre Operations Manual must be followed in their delivery.

Learners who fail to achieve a pass in the internally marked controlled assessments will be permitted to re-take after feedback and appropriate tuition has taken place.

Qualification Manual