Plate Welder Apprenticeship

Why choose this apprenticeship?

This apprenticeship helps employers develop skilled welders who can produce high-quality welds, improve productivity, maintain safety standards, and ensure compliance with fabrication specifications and quality requirements.

Who is it for?

The Level 3 Plate Welder apprenticeship is ideal for individuals looking to build a career in welding and fabrication. Apprentices typically work in sectors such as manufacturing, fabrication, construction, shipbuilding, offshore, energy, and process industries, producing high-quality welded components and structures. Employers usually look for candidates with good practical skills, attention to detail, an interest in engineering, and a willingness to learn and develop specialist welding expertise.

What is taught?

• During the apprenticeship, apprentices develop the skills and knowledge required to produce high-quality welded plate components and structures.
• Training covers welding processes, materials, joint preparation, welding procedures, inspection techniques, weld defects, technical drawings and specifications, quality standards, and health and safety.

Delivery model

The apprenticeship is designed to fit around business needs, combining workplace learning with college-based training. Delivery can include day release, block release and online learning, allowing apprentices to develop their skills while continuing to contribute to the workplace.

Employer considerations

• Planned time away from work for the apprentice to complete training alongside their normal work duties.
• An assigned experienced supervisors or manager to support the apprentice.
• Participation in regular progress reviews to help ensure skills development remains on track while minimising the impact on productivity and business operations.

What happens next?

Successful apprentices can progress into roles such as Coded Welder, Welding Inspector, Fabrication Supervisor, or Welding Team Leader. There are also opportunities to specialise in advanced welding processes, quality inspection, and higher-level engineering qualifications to support further career progression.

Why choose Gateshead College?

• Our Plate Welder apprenticeship is delivered in industry-standard welding and fabrication workshops equipped with modern MIG, TIG, and MMA welding equipment, fabrication facilities, CNC machinery, robotics systems, and advanced engineering tools.
• Training is provided by experienced engineering and welding professionals with extensive industry expertise. Strong partnerships with employers across fabrication, manufacturing, offshore, marine, energy, and engineering sectors ensure training reflects current industry requirements and provides valuable workplace experience.