Business Details
28 Years
experience
Your Engineering Training Partner in Merseyside
Established in 1998 through a partnership with Cammell Laird Shipyard, our institution has evolved from the Laird Foundation into a leading provider of engineering education and workforce development. Over 25 years, we have trained more than 4,000 engineers and apprentices, maintaining success rates significantly above national averages. Our state-of-the-art 7,000 sqm facilities in Birkenhead serve as a hub for innovation, delivering tailored apprenticeships, industry-recognised courses, and end-point assessments. We act as a strategic bridge between employers and apprentices, managing recruitment, training, and progression pathways. Our Investors in People Gold accreditation and IMechE recognition underscore our commitment to excellence.With partnerships spanning from Royal Navy shipyards to the Grand Bahamas Shipyard, we combine global perspectives with local industrial needs. Our vision extends beyond educationwe cultivate a professional community where employers and apprentices collaborate to elevate engineering standards. Through Ofqual-approved assessments and cutting-edge training methodologies, we ensure learners gain practical, job-ready skills. Our ethos prioritises hands-on experience, evidenced by apprentices working on high-profile projects like the RSS Sir David Attenborough. As signatories of the Armed Forces Covenant, we demonstrate inclusive values while preparing 1,000 engineers for industry by 2030.
Services
Apprenticeship Training
Welding Certification
End Point Assessments
Technical Testing
Forklift Operation
Engineering Courses
Venue Hire
Maritime Training
Assessment Centres
Workforce Development
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We've delivered 25+ years of engineering apprenticeship expertise
- Our 7,000 sqm facilities feature industry-standard training equipment
- We maintain 250+ employer partnerships across engineering sectors
- Our Ofqual-approved assessments ensure national accreditation standards
- We combine maritime heritage with modern engineering innovation
Associations and certifications
- Ofqual
- IMechE
- Investors in People
Services
Apprenticeship Training
We deliver industry-recognised apprenticeship programs across engineering disciplines. Our training combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience in state-of-the-art facilities. Employers benefit from ready-trained professionals while apprentices gain valuable workplace skills through partnerships with leading engineering firms.
Welding Certification
Our welding courses cover multiple techniques including TIG, MIG, and manual metal arc welding. Certified by TWI and offering coded welding assessments, we train candidates from novice to advanced levels. Training aligns with international standards including BS 4872 and ISO 9606.
End Point Assessments
As an Ofqual-approved EPAO, we conduct independent assessments measuring apprentices' competence against industry standards. Our evaluators use rigorous testing methods to ensure trainees meet required knowledge, skills, and behavioural criteria for professional accreditation.
Technical Testing
We provide industry-standard technical assessments validating critical engineering skills. These tests verify practitioners' abilities in specific task activities, ensuring workforce competence meets modern engineering demands through both theoretical and practical evaluations.
Engineering Courses
Our commercial short courses cover diverse engineering disciplines with flexible durations. From one-day technical tests to ten-day specialist programs, training adapts to individual experience levels while maintaining alignment with HSE regulations and industry best practices.
People
Terry Weston
Chief Executive Officer
With extensive experience in engineering education, Terry led the rebranding from Maritime and Engineering College to The Engineering College in 2016. He drives strategic direction while maintaining industry partnerships and facility development.
Questions
What engineering disciplines do you specialise in?
We focus on maritime engineering, mechanical disciplines, welding technologies, and industrial operations training.
How long have you been training apprentices?
Since our founding in 1998, we've trained over 4,000 apprentices and professionals.
Are your qualifications nationally recognised?
Yes, we hold Ofqual approval as an End Point Assessment Organisation and industry accreditations.
Do you offer short courses for experienced engineers?
Yes, our technical testing and refresher courses cater to both novice and experienced professionals.
What facilities do you have available?
Our 7,000 sqm Birkenhead campus features modern workshops, assessment centres, and training spaces.
Can employers access recruitment support?
We provide comprehensive workforce solutions including apprentice recruitment, training, and retention strategies.
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