How to become a welder
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- specialist courses run by private training provider
College
You could do a welding qualification at college before applying for a job as a trainee welder. Courses include:
- Level 2 Award in Welding Skills
- Level 2 Award in Welding Techniques and Skills
- Level 3 Diploma in Fabrication and Welding Engineering Technology
- T Level in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
- 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 do a:
- General Welder Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Pipe Welder Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Plate Welder Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
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 could apply directly for welding jobs.
You'll need welding experience, for example from working as a pipe fitter or working in engineering construction or marine engineering.
Other Routes
You could take a course in welding or inspection work 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 through the The Welding Institute (TWI).