The CCEA GCSE Engineering and Manufacturing specification is unique in the UK. It provides students with knowledge and understanding of how engineering and manufacturing contribute to society and the economy.

Topics include engineering and manufacturing materials and systems, commercial and industrial issues, emerging technologies, environmental issues and sustainable development.

Through its focus on interpreting technical drawings and developing skills in using manufacturing tools and processes and computer-aided design, this specification relates directly to the engineering and manufacturing industries. It provides students with a good foundation for progressing to apprenticeships or further education in a range of engineering and manufacturing courses.

There is an externally assessed practical examination for Unit 2 that tests students’ skills in using hand tools.

This qualification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills developed through the Science and Technology Area of Learning.

This specification is unitised, so it’s possible to take part of the assessment at the end of the first year of study.

The specification has three units:

• Unit 1: Design
• Unit 2: Production
• Unit 3: Materials, Processes and Systems.