Composites Technician

On a composites technician apprenticeship course, you’ll help combine lighter and stronger alternatives to metals.

You’ll be at the leading edge of technology as a composites expert, working with cutting-edge machinery. You’ll be engaged in various processes linked to producing and developing materials and components used in multiple applications, such as aeroplanes, cars, boats, turbine blades, bridges, and satellites.

You will help with manufacturing programmes and projects and may be assigned to design, tooling, moulding, lay-up, curing, machining, inspection, testing, repair, and material production.

What you’ll learn

On a composites technician apprenticeship course, you’ll learn to:

• Select appropriate techniques, procedures, and methods for producing a component.
• Identify and choose materials (resins, matrix and core),
• Make and prepare moulding tools.
• Design and manufacture of components
• Choose the consumables required to ensure the effective development and execution of projects and/or manufacturing programmes while adhering to any relevant Health and Safety requirements.
• Use laminating and automated manufacturing machines.
• Assist in designing and planning production programmes and research projects to ensure that they meet the needs and deadlines of the customer.
• Employ workplace-appropriate metrology equipment.

Entry requirements

You’ll usually need:

• Three GCSEs, including maths, English and a science—or technology-based subject for an advanced apprenticeship.
• Apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this before taking the end-point assessment.

Assessment methods

The End Point Assessment comprises two distinct assessment methods: 

• Work-based project completed in the last six months  
• A Professional Discussion (including a viva on the work-based project) 

Duration, level and subjects and potential salary upon completion

Apprenticeship standard

More information about the Level 3 Composites Technician Apprenticeship standard can be found here.

Apprenticeship end point assessment

For more information about the End Point Assessment Process, please read the Institute of Apprenticeships’ information page.