Engineering & Manufacturing

Whether you're a school leaver or an adult looking to retrain, build the practical, technical and professional skills you need for real engineering environments, apprenticeships or further study in our industry-standard workshops. 

Engineering & Manufacturing overview

Engineering is at the heart of modern life – from renewable energy and advanced manufacturing to transport, robotics and aerospace. 

More than 8 million people work in engineering roles across the UK, and the industry contributes an estimated £645 billion to the economy every year. In the North East, around 11% of all jobs are in manufacturing, making it one of the strongest engineering regions in the country.

View all Engineering & Manufacturing courses by visiting the course finder.

What you'll study

Engineering at EDC is hands-on, industry-focused and designed to help you build confidence as you develop your skills. Depending on your course level, you'll explore: 

• mechanical and electrical principles
• fabrication, welding and machining techniques
• robotics, mechatronics and automation
• CAD/CAM design
• CNC machining and 3D printing
• engineering maths, materials and processes
• health, safety and industry standards

You'll combine practical training with the knowledge you need to understand how engineering works in the real world. 

Our engineering & manufacturing facilities

You'll learn in dedicated, industry-standard engineering workshops featuring: 

• lathes, milling machines, grinders and hand tools
• CNC machinery and CAD/CAM systems
• robotics and automation equipment
• specialist welding bays for MMA, MIG and TIG
• a fabrication and welding workshop
• electronic and electrical training stations
• an NEIoT engineering suite

These environments mirror real workplaces, helping you develop the practical competence employers expect. 

Learning beyond the workshop

Your learning is strengthened by a variety of experiences, including: 

• work experience placements
• visits from egineering employers and industry experts
• enrichment activities
• careers guidance and application support
• opportunities to explore different engineering pathways

These experiences help you understand how engineering roles differ, what employers look for and where your strengths lie. 

Where it could lead

Many of our students have progressed into highly valued apprenticeships or immediate employment with respected companies such as Hydram Engineering, Katmex and Alexander Battery Technologies. 

Fees & funding

Course fees vary by level. Full-time courses are free for 16 to 18-year-olds. Adult students may also be eligible for funding depending on circumstances. 

To find out more, check our Course Fees & Funding page.