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ECITB Level 3 Diploma in Plate Welding in Engineering | Ofqual QN: 610/6446/4

Welding

Qualification summary

The objective of this qualification is to equip the candidate with the knowledge, skills and behaviours to become occupationally competent as a plate welder.

This qualification is suitable for candidates currently working as plate welders, those wishing to become plate welders and those undertaking an apprenticeship such as ST0852 Plate Welder.

The individual working in these roles will conduct welding activities in engineering and is responsible for the safety, quality, productivity and accuracy of their own work whilst ensuring it conforms to a relevant plate welding specification.

They are responsible for selecting, setting up, preparing the welding equipment and conducting welding activities to high standards for a wide range of engineering materials and components.

They are also responsible for dismantling welding equipment and reinstating the work area.

They are able to use documents, welding specifications, engineering drawings and diagrams and work safely in accordance with health, safety and environmental requirements whilst managing on-site hazards.

This qualification is based on Occupational/Apprenticeship standards and National Occupational Standards (NOS).

This qualification is available for registrations from 20 October 2025.

Providers are now invited to apply to deliver this qualification.

Where is this qualification delivered?

To complete this qualification learners must enrol with one of ECITB’s Approved Centres listed below.

What are the entry requirements?

There are no mandatory entry requirements.

The qualification is open to any candidate who the approved centre believes has the ability to reach the assessment requirements set out within this document.

A candidate must have a sound grasp of the English language and mathematics to be able to follow instructions as well as complete the learning and assessment required within this qualification.

The approved centre will work with the prospective candidate and, where appropriate, employer, to determine the candidate’s suitability for the qualification.

What is the qualification structure?

To achieve this qualification candidates must complete seven mandatory units.

There are 846 guided learning hours for this qualification and the total qualification time is 1440 hours.

Qualification units

SAF3WL
Work safely and sustainably in welding

REL3
Effective working relationships, communication, and inclusion

DOC3WL
Use documentation, procedures and digital technology in welding

PRE3PLWL
Prepare for using manual arc plate welding processes

CAW3PLWL
Conduct manual arc plate welding processes

MQC3PLWL
Maintain plate welding quality control

RWA3WL
Reinstate the work area after welding

Are there progression opportunities?

Candidates who achieve this qualification can progress to a range of further career options including welding supervisor, welding coordinator, welding inspector and welding examiner.

This qualification aligns with the apprenticeship standard ST0852 Plate Welder.