Metal casting, foundry and patternmaking technician
Level 3 · AdvancedEngineering and manufacturing 2.3 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Metal casting, foundry, and patternmaking technicians work in the production of metal components by casting molten metal into moulds or creating the patterns used to make those moulds. Apprentices develop technical skills across sand casting, die casting, and pattern design used in automotive, aerospace, and industrial manufacturing. The role is an entry point to engineering technician careers in the foundry industry.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Foundry processes including sand, die, and investment casting
Pattern design, materials, and construction techniques
Metallurgy fundamentals - how alloy composition affects castings
Quality inspection of castings including defect identification
Safe handling of molten metal and furnace operation
Reading and interpreting engineering drawings
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Prepare and set moulds and cores for casting operations
Operate furnaces and oversee metal pouring processes
Create and finish patterns used for mould production
Inspect castings for defects such as porosity and cracking
Record production data and quality control outcomes
Follow foundry health, safety, and environmental procedures
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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