This is a 4 year apprenticeship resulting in a Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing & Engineering. The first year will be spent at Midland Group Training Services (MGTS) in Redditch learning core practical and theoretical elements of the role. For the following years, apprentices will attend MGTS on a day release basis to complete the necessary educational requirements for the programme.

An Apprenticeship in toolmaking will enable you to work towards becoming a highly skilled Engineer. Your training on specialist pieces of machinery will increase your understanding and provide you with first-hand experience of the key part a tool plays to ensuring consistent high quality and high speed manufacturing.

Skills you will develop include:

  • Producing Components using Hand Fitting Techniques
  • Preparing and using Lathes for Turning Operations
  • Preparing and using Milling Machines
  • Preparing and using CNC Turning Machines
  • Producing Mechanical Engineering Drawings using a CAD System (Solidworks)
  • Preparing and using TIG or Plasma Arc Welding Equipment

Responsibilities and duties will Include:

  • Manufacture, set up and maintain tooling that builds quality into the manufacturing process
  • React to requests for tool correction and repairs to rectify or modify components
  • Carry out maintenance and refurbishment of machines
  • Use and develop appropriate diagnostic tools to assist in resolving machine problems
  • Initiate and develop new ideas to improve machine tooling
  • Work safely, with regard for your duty of care to yourself and to others who may be affected by your work
  • Adhere to company policies and procedures at all times
  • Keep others informed of information that contributes to the performance of the team, department or company
  • Work with MGTS external assessor to produce workplace assessment training plans
  • Attend lectures, practicals and visits as per training provider learning Plan

Entry Requirements

We are seeking applications from candidates who have or are predicted to gain 5 x GCSEs (or equivalent). Grades must be A*-C / 9-5 for Maths and A*-C / 9-4 for English, Science and two other subjects.

Training to be Provided

  • Level 2 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Foundation Competence)
  • BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Knowledge)
  • Level 3 Diploma in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (Development Competence)

Future prospects

Protaform aims to offer permanent roles to all successful apprentices at the end of their training agreement wherever possible and to supporting continuing professional development.