EAL Diploma in Engineering and Digital Manufacturing SCQF Level 8

The EAL Diploma in Engineering and Digital Manufacturing SCQF Level 8 is for learners working in the engineering and digital manufacturing sector. Learners are likely to be working in roles such as Technician, Industrial Technician, Engineering Technician, Industrial Engineer, Lead Engineer and Production Engineer.

This competence-based qualification is for learners who will undertake the Scottish Apprenticeship in Engineering and Digital Manufacturing at SCQF level 8. It can also be delivered for learners who will undertake the qualification but not as part of an apprenticeship.

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification, but it is recommended that applicants have either completed a modern apprenticeship in Engineering; or hold 2 or more SQA Highers, and Mathematics at National 5 or above; or hold a National Certificate (SCQF level 6) or a Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) qualification in Engineering, or equivalent. However, employers can also consider existing workplace skills and experiences, where learners are either changing careers or upskilling. Being open to alternative assessment methods and relevant experience, instead of qualifications, can help to broaden the pool of potential applicants.

Work based learning is the primary method by which learners develop knowledge, skills and behaviours and meta-skills in this qualification. This means it will be delivered and assessed using evidence generated by the learner during their usual work activities. There may be a small number of exceptions to this, specifically where there are industry related safety implications. In these cases, a learner may need to be off site for parts of the qualification. In these circumstances the situation should be made as realistic to the workplace as possible. These requirements have been outlined in the Assessment Strategy (within the Qualification Manual). 

As they progress through the qualification, learners will be continuously engaged in the process of learning through being observed, engaging in professional discussion, responding to work challenges and accumulating evidence of their progression and learning.

The EAL Diploma in Engineering and Digital Manufacturing at SCQF Level 8 contains 14 Units, learners must successfully complete 4 mandatory Units and 5 optional Units in line with the Rule of Combination to achieve the qualification. Learners will be required to create a Portfolio of Evidence to prove their competence in the workplace. Learners should therefore select the Units that reflect the job roles they carry out in the workplace to be able to obtain the required workplace evidence.

The overall grading type for this qualification is competent / not yet competent.​