Engineering - LEVEL 2

U-Skills Academy Mechanical Engineering

Discover if a career in machining, welding or fabrication is right for you, while still in secondary school!


Quick Facts

Locations
UCOL Manawatū in Palmerston North, UCOL Whanganui, UCOL Wairarapa in Masterton
Dates

Starting: Week of 09 Feb 2026

Finishing: Week ending 25 Sep 2026

Delivery days:

Palmerston North - Thursdays

Whanganui - Fridays

Masterton - Thursdays


View Timetable
Domestic Fees
Fees-free

Application Forms

Overview

Learn core concepts and get a taste of mechanical engineering - an industry where skilled workers are in high demand.

You will have the opportunity to work towards NCEA Level 2 whilst exploring technical skills.

You will learn about:

  • Health and safety

  • Engineering materials

  • Hand and power tools

  • Measuring

  • Welding and light fabrication

How to apply

If you're interested in applying for this programme, talk to your careers advisor at school. Application is arranged in partnership with your parents/caregivers and your school. Once you've talked to everyone required, you can use the form at the top of the page to apply.


Course Hours

Delivered from 9am - 3pm in all locations.

Palmerston North - Thursdays

Whanganui - Fridays

Masterton - Thursdays

Course Information

This programme comprises 28 Credits.

Unit Standard 21911 (Level 2) (Version 3) (2 Credits)

Demonstrate knowledge of safety on engineering worksites.

Unit Standard 21912 (Level 2) (Version 3) (2 Credits)

Apply safe working practices on an engineering worksite.

Unit Standard 29560 (Level 2) (Version 1) (3 Credits)

Demonstrate knowledge of efficient and effective workplace procedures in mechanical engineering or fabrication.

Unit Standard 33135 (Level 3) (Version 1) (Credits 3)

Demonstrate knowledge of health and safety while welding and thermal cutting.

Unit Standard 21907 (Level 2) (Version 4) (4 Credits)

Demonstrate knowledge of welding principles and quality control and safe welding practice under supervision.

Unit Standard 2395 (Level 2) (Version 9) (4 Credits)

Demonstrate and apply knowledge of the selection, use, and care of engineering hand tools.

Unit Standard 2396 (Level 2) (Version 7) (4 Credits)

Demonstrate and apply knowledge of the selection, use, and care of portable handheld engineering power tools.

Unit Standard 4432 (Level 2) (Version 8) (2 Credits)

Demonstrate knowledge of, and convert, units of measure used in engineering.

Unit Standard 4434 (Level 1) (Version 8) (1 Credit)

Demonstrate knowledge of basic geometric form in engineering.

Unit Standard 29670 (Level 2) (Version 1) (3 Credits)

Demonstrate knowledge of fabrication machinery, materials, and processes.

Domestic Entry Requirements

For year 11 - 13 secondary school learners (NZ Citizens, permanent residents or learners with an applicable visa allowing them to be enrolled in a secondary school).

Applications are to be received from participating schools.

Recommended school subjects include:

  • Maths

  • Chemistry

  • Physics

  • Construction

  • Mechanical Technologies

  • English

  • Digital Technologies

International Entry Requirements

Not applicable.

Career Opportunities

Successful completion of the UCOL Academy Mechanical Engineering Programme is the first step in a journey. Equipped with new skills and a taste for the industry, you will know what you need to do to pursue a career in engineering.

Employment opportunities include:

  • Mechanical engineer

  • Engineering technician

  • Light or heavy fabrication

  • Maintenance engineering

  • Fitting

  • Machining

  • Tool making

  • Welding

  • Diagnostics

If this is for you, you can undertake further tertiary studies in:

To find out more about possible job prospects and salaries for Engineering Technicians and Engineering Professionals, visit tahatu.govt.nz 

Advice And Guidance

This programme is part of a suite of 'Academy' programmes offered by UCOL to secondary learners seeking to explore their career options while still in school. Gain practical experience and NCEA Credits.

Whanganui learners

Part of the programme will be delivered in Palmerston North.

How to apply

If you're interested in applying for the UCOL Academy Mechanical Engineering Programme, talk to your careers advisor at school. Application is arranged in partnership with your parents/caregivers and your school.

Cost

Fees-free when criteria are met.

Transport

Transport assistance is available if you meet the criteria.

Attendance expectations

Learners must maintain appropriate attendance at both secondary school and Academy to remain enrolled in the Academy Programme.

Additional Costs

There are no additional costs associated with this programme. Simply, bring a pen, paper and your lunch each week.