Welder Apprenticeship Standard

Training develops the knowledge and practical skills needed for safe, accurate welding. Topics include:

• Welding processes, equipment and techniques
• Preparing materials and joints; interpreting specifications; checking weld quality and identifying surface defects

Welders join metals to manufacture, repair or maintain components and structures. Their work can support industries such as aerospace, construction, defence, mining, marine, manufacturing and structural engineering.

Welders prepare materials and joints, select and use the appropriate equipment and carry out welding to the required specification. They follow welding procedures, use personal protective equipment and work safely around hazards such as heat, fumes, fire and electrical equipment. They check completed welds for quality and defects and report or address issues in line with workplace procedures. 

Depending on the employer and project, welders may work in a workshop, factory, construction site or other industrial environment. They work with supervisors, engineers, inspectors, colleagues and other trades to ensure work meets the required specification and quality standards.

Welders are responsible for completing work safely, accurately and efficiently, following health and safety requirements, welding procedures and quality standards.

A minimum expectation of GCSE Grades 2 or above in English and maths or equivalent. 

Progress is monitored throughout the apprenticeship through workplace performance, training and evidence of developing knowledge and practical skills. 

The typical apprenticeship duration is 18 months, followed by an end-point assessment period of around 3 months.

Assessments will include:

Workplace observation and evidence of practical welding skills, supported by records of training and work completed. Apprentices build a portfolio of evidence to support a professional interview.

Once the apprentice has completed their training and the employer is satisfied that they are occupationally competent, they must meet the gateway requirements before taking the end-point assessment. These include the required English and maths qualifications and two current welder approval certificates that match the welding processes selected for assessment.

The end-point assessment consists of 3 assessment methods:

• Multi choice test
• Practical test with questions
• Interview underpinned by a portfolio of evidence 

Telephone: 01782 254287 (Newcastle office) or 01782 275660 (Stafford office) Email: apprenticeships@nscg.ac.uk 

If you successfully achieve all parts of the apprenticeship, your assessor will discuss with you and your employer the next steps to take. Dependent on your roles and responsibilities, this may be the next level of the subject you have been studying already or a different pathway.

While you are on an apprenticeship your employer pays you a salary and supports you whilst you undertake you training.