How to become Welder
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- specialist courses run by a private training provider
College
You could do a welding qualification at college before applying for a job as a trainee welder. Courses include:
- welding skills
- welding techniques and skills
- fabrication and welding engineering
- T Level in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a welding apprenticeship, such as:
- General Welder Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Pipe Welder Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Plate Welder Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
These take between 2 and 4 years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Direct Application
You can apply directly for welding jobs.
You'll need welding experience and certifications, for example from working in:
- pipe fitting
- engineering construction
- marine engineering
- steel fabrication
Other Routes
You could take a course in welding or inspection through The Welding Institute (TWI). You usually need to be working in engineering to do this.
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Registration
- you'll need an industry safety certificate like the Client Contractor National Safety Group (CCNSG) Safety Passport Scheme for many jobs
Professional and industry bodies
You could join The Welding Institute (TWI) for professional development and training opportunities.
Further information
You can find out more about welding careers from The Welding Institute (TWI).