This qualification is a Vocationally Related Qualification (VRQ) which seeks to provide the learner with the basic knowledge needed to aid securing employment within a modern engineering manufacturing environment. Achievement of this qualification does not imply competency. The qualification has been developed in consultation with employers who are keen to bring new entrants, who have little or no previous experience of a manufacturing environment, into the workforce. It is based on employers

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification although Centres should ensure that the learners have the potential to achieve the units selected within this qualification. Learners must have the minimum levels of literacy and numeracy to comply with the health and safety aspects of the scheme, the completion of the learning outcomes and any assessment requirements.

Potential new entrants into the engineering manufacturing workforce, who have little or no previous experience Learners considering moving into this industry, who also may have been unemployed for some time.

For this qualification the learner must demonstrate their skills, knowledge and understanding through a portfolio of evidence comprising of Centre-set assessments, formal observation, summative statements and where appropriate reflective statements from the learner.

Assessment can be carried out by the Centre delivery staff (those who are also delivering the training). EAL do not prescribe what qualifications these individuals should hold, but they must meet the minimum requirements expected from regulatory and the national funding bodies. It is imperative that delivery staff have an understanding of processes of internal assessment and verification and the types of quality assurance systems that can be used to facilitate these.

Qualification Manual