Aeronautical Engineering (Advanced)

L3 Level 3
Full Time
1 September 2025 — 19 June 2026
International Centre for Aerospace

About this course

This course is ideal for school leavers who are achieving a B grade in Maths who are interested in both Aerospace and Aviation Science including General Engineering. The course will provide you with the core skills and knowledge required to work as an aircraft fitter or unlicensed technician in the aviation industry.  The course gives you a fantastic opportunity to learn about various aircraft topics including: aircraft systems, materials, hardware and propulsion - to position you well for a successful career in aerospace industry.

The course is split over two years. On completion of the first year, you can achieve a nationally recognised Level 3 Diploma qualification in Engineering Technologies. On successful completion of the second year, you will be awarded an Extended Diploma in Engineering Technologies. 

The course is equivalent to two A-Levels (up to 96 UCAS points). You are advised to enroll on an A Level Maths course alongside this one.

What you will study

Whilst on this course you'll study:

Year 1 - Diploma in Engineering:

  • Engineering Health and Safety 
  • Engineering Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Principles
  • Mechanical Principles
  • Theory of Flight
  • Engineering Communications/CAD
  • Aircraft Maintenance Practices
  • Skills for Aero Level 2

Year 2 is progression only - Extended Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering:

  • Further engineering mathematics
  • Rotorywing aircraft systems
  • Gas turbine engines
  • Aircraft Systems
  • Radio and radar
  • Performing Engineering Operations
  • Skills for Aero Level 3

Students will have to complete a minimum of 5 weeks relevant compulsory work experience.

The qualification is assessed by a combination of centre devised practical assessments and assignments covering the topics detailed in the course content. Your hand-skills in the workshop will be continually assessed and marked.

Entry requirements

Applicants who hold or are predicated to gain a minimum of 5 GCSE’s – Grade A* to C or equivalent. To include A* to B in a Maths and A* - C in a Science subject, preferably Physics.

Are also:

  • Keen and motivated to work in an engineering environment
  • Willing to undertake a course of intense training
  • Have completed tests in basic numeracy, literacy and communication skills and have spatial awareness.

Would be eligible to apply for this course.

Important points

  • The College welcomes contact with parents/guardians of students who are under 18.
  • Additional support is available for students with learning difficulties and disabilities.
  • Cardiff and Vale College is committed to inclusion and values diversity. We are determined to promote equality of opportunity and to treat everyone fairly and with respect.
  • Cardiff and Vale College reserves the right to make changes to this course without prior notice.
  • Course fees are subject to change. Your fee will be confirmed prior to enrolment.
  • All courses are accurate at the time of upload or print.
  • Courses can only run if there are sufficient numbers.
  • Please note, if you choose three or more course choices, then you may be referred for a careers appointment first. This does not apply to A Level or GCSE choices.
Key information

Start date

1 September 2025

End date

19 June 2026

Time of day

Day Time

Full Time

18 hours per week

Location

International Centre for Aerospace
Maps & directions

Course code

AERH3F01
L3

Qualification

Aeronautical Engineering

More...

What our students say

What stood out for me about Cardiff and Vale College were the fantastic facilities at ICAT and the smaller class sizes. I have the ability to spend one to one time with the lecturers who are very patient and help you understand the work being carried out. Having that experience with people who have a wealth of knowledge about the industry is invaluable. Since leaving Cardiff and Vale College, I have completed my degree with Kingston University and have recently started a job with Babcock as a Mechanical design engineer in their missions systems department working on submarines. The knowledge I have learnt during my time at Cardiff and Vale College can now be put to use while working.

Aircraft
Harri Stallard
Former Level 3 Aircraft Engineering student and BEng in Aircraft Engineering graduate, now working at Babcock.

Career prospects & further study

123,000

The UK Aerospace industry remains as number two on the world stage and the largest in Europe with £35 billion turnover, 123,000 direct employees and 3,900 Apprentices.

We encourage students to apply for Apprenticeships taught here at ICAT or anywhere in the UK, and also HE courses e.g. BEng Aero Engineering and Degree Apprenticeships.

Locations

International Centre for Aerospace
International Centre for Aerospace

International Centre for Aerospace Training (ICAT),
Cardiff Airport Business Park,
Rhoose, 
Vale of Glamorgan,
CF62 3DP