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:
New Zealand Diploma in Engineering (Mechanical Engineering) (Not taught at UCOL)
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.