Leonardo Pre-Apprenticeship Engineering- Level 2 First Certificate - (September 2027 Start)

Leonardo’s Pre-Apprenticeship Programme is a one-year engineering programme for people who are passionate about practical, hands-on engineering and want to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed for a future career in the industry. Delivered in partnership with Yeovil College, the programme combines practical workshop activities and theory-based learning while studying towards a BTEC Level 2 First Certificate in Engineering.

Learners will also complete work experience placements at Leonardo, gain exposure to a professional aerospace engineering environment, and develop the workplace skills needed to progress into further training and apprenticeship opportunities.

As part of the programme, you will complete two one-week work experience placements at Leonardo Helicopters. The first placement provides general workplace experience, while the second is aligned to production areas with future apprenticeship opportunities. Placement areas may include the Gear Shop/Machine Shop, Electrical or Component Manufacturing, and the Dynamic Composites Centre. Regular engagement with Leonardo also takes place throughout the programme, including company visits and industry projects.

Upon successful completion of the programme, you will achieve a BTEC Level 2 First Certificate in Engineering.

The programme is designed to prepare learners for progression into engineering apprenticeships and further training opportunities. Following successful completion, learners will be interviewed for an apprenticeship role with Leonardo. While an apprenticeship is not guaranteed, a number of apprenticeship positions will be ring-fenced specifically for programme completers.

Learners who are not successful in securing a Leonardo apprenticeship will be supported by Yeovil College to progress into alternative apprenticeships or further study, such as a T Level.

You will study a range of engineering topics as part of the BTEC Level 2 First Certificate in Engineering, including:

• The Engineered World
• Investigating an Engineered Product
• Interpreting and Using Engineering Information
• Mathematics for Engineering
• Engineering Materials
• Aircraft Maintenance
• Engineering Assembly
• Health and Safety

You will also complete a Leonardo-specific project, develop practical engineering skills, and take part in wider personal development activities. Throughout the programme, you will build workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, organisation and problem-solving.

Assessment is through completion of the BTEC Level 2 First Certificate in Engineering, alongside participation in practical activities, engineering projects and work experience placements completed throughout the year.

Applicants must have a minimum of four GCSEs at grade 3 (D) or above, including:

• Maths
• English
• Science

If you do not currently hold a grade 4 (C) in Maths and English, you will be expected to work towards achieving these qualifications while on the programme.

Applicants must be at least 16 years old on the start date of the programme.

No previous engineering experience is required. The programme is specifically designed to help learners develop engineering knowledge, practical skills and workplace behaviours through college study, projects and industry experience.

Applications open in October, with the programme starting in September of the following year. Applications can be submitted through the Yeovil College or Leonardo websites.

Once your application has been received, you will receive an immediate confirmation email. Interviews will take place during the early part of the year before programme start, with interview arrangements coordinated jointly by Yeovil College and Leonardo. The Yeovil College iZone team will contact shortlisted applicants to arrange their interview.