Support & Contact Details:
TECHNICAL EDUCATION CENTRE OPEN LEARNING LTD (TECOL)Contact information:
Why choose TECOL?At TECOL, we provide the opportunity to study a range of fully accredited (Pearson – Edexcel BTEC), nationally recognised, technical qualifications to complement your existing skills and interests. Our online teaching and learning methods utilise the ‘Moodle’ learning platform and we provide you with all learning materials required. We accept new learners all year round and all courses are delivered and assessed entirely online, hence, you have the flexibility to work in your own time and at your own pace. Our highly qualified & experienced tutors will fully support you throughout your course via email, Tel and live video calls. At TECOL: -We accept ELCAS (Enhanced Learning Credits – Learner Provider No: 9967 – Technical Education Centre Open Learning Ltd (TECOL)) -Learning is self-paced and gives learners a chance to speed up or slow down as necessary -Access to technical education is available to those in work who – cannot get day-release, work shifts, or regularly have to work or travel overseas -Geographical barriers are eliminated, opening up broader education options -On-demand access is provided meaning that learning can happen precisely when needed -Costs are lower for companies needing to train employees, but can’t afford to lose staff to travel & attend college classes -We accommodate multiple learning styles using a variety of delivery methods geared to different learners -Tutor support is provided via telephone, email and live video calls -Courses can be customised on request -We offer a range of flexible payment options -We offer progression from BTEC level 3 courses to BTEC Level 4 HNC and BTEC Level 5 HND programmes -You can progress directly from your BTEC HND Level 5 programme to university to ‘topup’ to a full degree Course Purchase and Enrolment ProcessPayPal or credit/debit card When you order a course through our website, using Credit/Debit card or Paypal, we will be in contact with you within 2 working days to get you started:
The overall process should not take any longer than 3 days, but if you don’t hear from us after 3 days at any stage of the process, it is likely that your email system may be blocking communications. If this happens please contact us by Telephone on 0800 228 9215 or email: admin@tecol.co.uk Note: if the course is not for the same person on the order please let us know by sending details of the learner name and email address to: admin@tecol.co.uk Invoice payment Alternatively, if the above on-line system is unsuitable, and you or your company requires an invoice that can be paid by bank transfer, just request this option from admin@tecol.co.uk Course Extension and RepeatsIf your course support expires or you need to retake an assessment go to course extension and assessment repeat support page. Any course extension period starts from the date that your course had expired. Paper copy of course material If you prefer to have a paper course manual you can also order a paper copy of your course. Just go to your course main web page and scroll down to the appropriate cart. Practical work kitsWe have a range of website links and electronic kits that support study and assessment work
These can be can be ordered directly from our kits and equipment page. |
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do you accept the advanced learner loan for the engineering course.
Thanks.
Josh
We don’t currently accept the AL loan, but it we plan to do arrange this in the future
Hi,
For the university entry requirement,
one of it is BTEC level 3 extended diploma
Is that mean Level 3 on here ?
because I don’t see any Level 3 with extended level here
Please advice
Best regards
Chloe
A BTEC extended diploma contains 18 units, which is normally studied full time due to the amount of time required. Tecol can offer extended diplomas if required, please email admin@tecol.co.uk for further details
this may a dumb question but is this endorsed by anyone ?
such as city and guilds
Jonathan
It a perfectly good question, and the answer is yes
All our BTEC level 3-5 courses are fully approved and accredited by Pearson-Edexcel, who are the largest UK qualification authority
I am currently working as a project manager in training, and have been asked to acquire my mechanical qualifications.
I am currently looking to take the unit 9 Mechanical diploma. I work full time and was wondering if this course is suitable to study part time?
Craig
As an on-line distance learning provider, all our courses are designed to study on a part-time basis. They have been designed to be flexible so that they can work around your other commitments. For a 9 unit diploma, we would expect you to study about 5-10 hours per week to ensure that you complete your course over a 2-3 year period
Hi there. I currently work as a machine setter and hopefully soon the company I work for will get in touch with you in order for me to start the BTEC level 3 Diplomas Engineering, my question is what do I need to do if I don’t have my GSCEs?
For learners who are currently working in industry we do not require entry qualification for Level 3
I was just wondering if it was possible to complete a course within the recommended time period e.g. a 6 unit course would take 2 years but what if I wanted to finish it in 6 months? Will I also gain the necessary support from your side to finish it in that time frame as well?
Yes, the 24 months is the support time we offer for a 6 unit diploma, but you can complete the course in a shorter time if you wish.
This is one of the advantages of our on-line courses.
There will be 12 assessments for this diploma and you are in control of when to request them (in sequence) and how quickly to return them (must be within the assessment duration time). Your assigned tutor will normally mark and return them to you within 10 working days.
So you have considerable control over how long it takes to complete the course
Are there any externally marked assessments?
There are no externally marked assessments
Hello, I noticed in your support information that you offer courses to students in England, Scotland and Wales. I live in Northern Ireland and was considering signing up for a Level 3 Engineering Diploma.
Do you offer courses in NI?
Thanks.
Yes we now take students from Northern Ireland;
Hi I left a message on here earlier this year and no response of my question but now longer visible.
I kept on coming back from time to time and was awaiting a response.
Any ideas?
Apologies for missing your original query, but 3-ph motors and drive would be suitable in providing your technicians a better understanding of how these work
For a cop of the spec content see unit 9 on Our Moodle by logging in as a guest:
http://tecol.co.uk/dir/login/index.php
No problem You can 3 electrical unit upgrade to the 6 mechanical units and gain a 9 unit Dip in Eng (Mech&Elec)
Hi,
I am looking at undertaking the btec level 3 diploma in electrical electronic engineering 12unit course. In terms of the grading criteria, can you achieve pass, merit and distinction or is it limited to just pass marks due to being an online course. Also, what support is offered to students when undertaking the course (course lecturers?).
Many thanks,
Rich
For all BTEC courses you have the opportunity to achieve pass, merit and distinction grades.
Tutors are provided for all units and can be contacted via email and Skype
Hi, I have a degree in Electrical Electronics Engineering in Nigeria, would like to take courses here to brush up my skill for my Employer. Kindly advise what level would be require of me to start?
Olu.
Providing you have a UK address, we would be happy for you to complete an HNC (Level 4) in Electrical & Eletronic Engineering
Can i ask , who takes care of the btech tests and submissions do we have to submit these or is this taken care of for us ?
We take care of all your course assessments. Currently these can be done at home, as there are no formal course exams to sit at exam centres
An offshore worker in Ghana and wants to know if this course will be of benefit to my electrical carrier. If yes kindly send me the links for registration
It depends what type of electrical work you are doing, but you can look at our course and unit content on-line at http://www.tecol.co.uk to see if it meets your needs
Hi I currently have an nvq level 3 in Hgv repair and maintenance and I am looking to gain an electrical qualification, would you recommend the btec level 3 or hnc with bridging units
With level 3 NVQs only, we would recommend a 6 unit BTEC level 3 diploma prior to starting an HNC
Are there any requirements to enroll on a level 3 9 unit diploma in engineering?
There are no formal entry requirement to the 9 unit diploma
Good morning I am interested in the 6 unit mechanical/electrical level 3 diploma are there any additional item costs needed for this course apart from the initial outlay
The only costs are the course fee (£850) and the BTEC registration fee (£195), that’s it
I live in Guyana South America can i apply?
You can, but only if you can provide a UK address
I’m looking at starting the electrical engineering course level 3 diploma. Does this course qualify for an advanced learner loan?
We currently don’t accept the advanced learner loan
Hi, I’m interested in going into Robotics in the future. Which pathway would you suggest is best to study, mechanical or electronic? Is it possible to combine the two? Thanks.
Yes you can study mechanical and electrical engineering, which is probably the best option for Robotics
Dear Sir/Madam,
I saw that HNC and HND are supported for maximum 30 months respectively. May I know if I were to complete the course longer than 30 months, eg: HNC, do I need extra payment?
Secondly, does each module only contain one assessment? Do I need to travel to a specific place for exam?
Looking forward to your reply.
Many thanks,
WH
You can extend the 30 month period if required for a £30/mth extension fee
Each module contains 2 assessments which you can complete anywhere, so no need to travel
I’m thinking about doing one of your hnd’s. Do you accept any form of student loan or finance?
Many thanks and kind regards
Mr Bowyer
Currently we don’t accept student loans or finance
Hello
I am wanting to study engineering at university and as a mature student I believe doing your btec would be my best choice.
Would you recommend the 12 or 18 unit course?
Also how long would you expect this to achieve while working full time and raising a child? I understand it’s different for everyone but do you think it could be completed in 2 years?
Thanks
Jordan
It depends what the University entry requirement as to what is best
12 unit BTEC = 2 A-levels with up to 96 UCAS points and will take around 24 months to complete
18 unit BTEC = 3 A-levels with up to 144 UCAS points and will take around 36 months to complete
Hi,
It says it may be possible to tailor modules. I’m considering the 6 unit Diploma in Electrical & Electronic Engineering but want to study the “Principles & applications of analogue electronics” in place of “Mathematics for Engineering Technicians” as I don’t need that module for what I’m trying to achieve. The analogue module is available under the 9 unit option but I don’t need the extra 3 modules nor wish to fork out for them 🙂 Do you know if this replacement is possible and would it still be accredited?
Thanks
There are unit restrictions on the QCF 6-unit diplomat set by Edexcel, so Analogue electronic is not valid unit on this course
However if you want to study Analogue electronics you have 2 options – go for the 9 unit diploma where it is valid, or go for the new AME 6-unit course were you have freedom to pick any 3 units from the list provided on its webpage
Hi
Can i do a HNC in engineering(electrical) after completing a lv3 BTEC 6 units course? or is there any extra requirements to do the HNC?
Thanks
You can complete HNC after completing the BTEC level 3 6-unit course providing you gain an overall Merit grade,(otherwise you need 9 units at Pass grade)
There are no other requirements
I am considering doing the l3 electronics after Xmas. Is it possible to start at any time of the year?
What do I need to initially pay? I understand it is 100 deposit, 195 BTEC registration and 120 for the components kit and the scope/function generator is that all that I need to pay? Or is there anything else?
Last question, how long do I have to study, I read that it was 30 months but I would be looking to do it in less. I plan to study 10 hrs per week
Yay
For a 6 unit Diploma the course support is for 24 months, which is based on around 5 hours per week so yes at 10hrs/wk you could finish it in a much shorter period
You can start and finish your course at any time
To start you just need to pay your deposit and set up your direct debit. Your BTEC reg fee can be paid a month later and the equipment/parts can be ordered when you need which will be about 6 months later
Hi,
I am an apprentice trained Cnc machinist for the last 12 years and would like some qualifications to move into higher education. I am interested in doing the 9 unit L3 Btec course in mechanical engineering. I am currently living in New Zealand, but still have a registered address in the uk for post. I have very little experience in thermodynamics or fluid mechanics, would a pass still be possible from the material provided, even with no previous experience?
cheers, Dan
Dan
You will be provided with all the notes you need to pass the course, so you wont have any problem with fluids or thermodynamics
Yes use your UK address on your enrollment
Hi,
I finnished the mechanical engineering level 3 certificate course in February this year. Would I still be able to upgrade to the 6 unit diploma?
Yes absolutely, just go to the 6 unit tab on our website, select the pathway and then the upgrade option
Hi, I was looking at doing my HNC in Electrical and Electronic engineering, however is it possible to choose a different unit at the end instead of H15 or H32 for example do H44 instead
Thank you
H44 is a level5 (HND) unit so cannot be studied within your HNC
H15 or H32 can be changed to something else and we plan to add further options; so by the time you get through the first 4-5 units, more choices should be available for you to pick from
Hi
When will the updated version off the BTEC Level 3 Engineering diplomas be rolling out?
Many Thanks
Now, the new 6, 9 and 12 unit courses are now available
Hi,
If the merit grade is not achieved during the completion of the 6 unit diploma, to continue on a HNC course is it possible to just upgrade to the 9 unit diploma with the additional 3 modules and complete them at least with a pass?
Thank you.
Yes you can easily upgrade from 6 to 9 unit diploma if required
Are the 12 unit level 3 diploma’s just the extended version of the 6 and 9 unit diploma’s?
In some ways yes they are, but they also branch into there own official qualification title like ‘electrical and electronic engineering’
They also introduce projects which is were you now demonstrate your ability to research and develop a solution to a problem
Finally they are recognised as being equivalent to 2 ‘A’ levels
For the Pearson BTEC Level 3 Engineering – Engineering Drawing for Technicians, do I need to purchase a CAD programme to do this module?
Thanks
No
We normally seek free options from suppliers that are offered to students such as QCAD or AutoCAD
Hi,
I am interested in the Level 3 electrical/mechanical course 9 unit… i want to finish it within a year is this do able, i can study 10+ hours a week i need be.
Also are these qualifications considered ONC’s with them being all theory based learning?
They are the same level as the old ONC, but it would be the same as the 12 unit diploma
To complete the 9 unit diploma in 1 year you are looking at 15 hours per week, every week
Hi,
I would like to sign in, how to do the registration to enrol .
Thank you
Once pay full or a deposit for the course our admin will send you an enrolment form and instructions on the log-in procees
Hi,
I’m interested in studying an HNC in Electronic and Electrical Engineering but I am unsure on whether I meet the entry requirements. I have an A Level in electronics but I’m not sure if this qualifies me for the HNC or whether I would have to take the level 3 first. Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks!
Your ‘A’ level will meet the entry requirements, but we recommend you also complete a couple of level bridging units to better prepare you for HNC
The bridging are provided free of charge as part of your HNC and a good starting point
Please call me to discuss booking
Best to email any booking enquiries to admin@tecol.co.uk or ring 0800 2289215
Can I do the modules in any order, I am interested in the 12 module mechanical and Electrical engineering Diploma. I would like to start with Technical Drawing
Yes, you can, although it makes sense to carry outthe units in a particular sequence as many are linked. However you can start with drawing as its not linked
Good morning,
I am looking to complete a HNC in electrical and electronic engineering. I currently have a City and Guilds level 3 nvq In electrical installations.
Would I need to complete a level 3 Course first or would the bridging unit suffice?
Also do you have any course material examples available?
Thank you
Given that you have a level 3 qualification, the bridging units will be suffice.
For sample of course material please request these directly by email to admin@tecol.co.uk
Are the Tecol 1 unit and 3 unit awards recognised by ofqual?
As individual units they are not recognised, only when grouped into 6 9 or 12 units
Can i do the L4 HNC if i have a L3 NVQ in motor vehicle mechanics
Yes, although you will need to complete a couple of level 3 bridging units which are included in the price of the HNC courses
Hi,
I am looking doing the HNC followed by the HND in General Engineering. My question is how is the modules delivered is there material to read or is it interactive learning testing your knowledge as you go.
Secondly are the assessments written or multiple choice and would you have a designated tutor throughout the course
Many Thanks
Josh.
The HNC/D course material is mainly read material with some practical exercises depending on the units.
Each unit has 2 assessments which are usually written pieces of work, which you complete offline and in your own time
At this level there are no multiple choice type questions
I am interested in completing a level 3 diploma in engineering. May I ask what the assessments are like? Multiple choice , worded questions, and how long will you have to hand an assessment in. Thanks
Assessments are normally worded, mathematical, graphical and practical exercises. Time given is 4-6 weeks depending on assessment
I am a qualified mechanical engineer also with a l3 c&g electrical maintenance qualification. Would I be able to go straight onto the HNC course. Thanks. Gra
Yes we accept technical level 3 qualifications, although you will be required to complete a level 3 bridging course (3 short units) to bring up-to-date your maths and science knowledge and skills. This is included in the HNC price
Is there any way of doing a level 3 btec extended diploma due to me needing it for job and university requirements?
Yes, we have just added a fast track extended diploma in engineering course (18 unit) to our website for students who want direct access to University
Hi
Could you please advice how many UCAS points does the BTEC Award in Engineering (Mechanical: 6 unit) equals to?
regards
Chris
Although 6 units is equal to 1 A-level, I understand that UCAS only show the UCAS points for 12 units on their site; which I believe is 96 points (so half of that would be 48)
Can a 30 year old student with career experience go from a level 2 nvq diploma to a hnc without completing a level 3
It would not be a wise move to skip level 3, as some of the topic would simply be too difficult such as mathematics.
We would recommend that you spend an extra year completing a 6-unit BTEC level 3 Award in order to prepare for your HNC
Hello,
I am looking to work towards a lvl 3 cert in both Mechanical and Electrical Engineering. Am I able to do this?
I was intending to work towards it on a unit by unit basis. Completing the necessary units for both Mech and Elec. Will I have to complete the shared mandatory units (Maths, Health and Safety and Communication) twice, for each certificate?
Thank you
You best option is to start with a 3 unit Mech foundation award and when complete, upgrade it to Mech & Elec (General) engineering by adding 3 more units for a full Award.
This way there will be no duplication of units.
Hi, my employer has requested I get a level 3 b-tec in mechanical and electrical engineering, can I do the 3 unit courses at the same time?
Many thanks
You can, but it makes more sense to go for a 9 or 12 unit Mech & Electrical certifate or diploma that includes all the units you want to do, rather than doing 2 separate courses.
Hi, I currently have a HNC in Mechatronics and was wondering if this can be used towards and upgrade for an electrical HND? Thanks
Yes, BTEC have a mapping system which gives credit to existing HNC units and a pathway to the latest HND engineering qualification
If you wish to have your existing qualification mapped please send a copy of your HNC, showing units achieved, to admin@tecol.co.uk
Hi I have the livel 3 Mechanical Maintenance Technician. This qualification is from Italy. Thei don’t Recognize .in UK.
Can you email in a copy of your qualification to admin@tecol.co.uk , so we can check it and advise you of your options
hi,
I have just paid for a Level 4 course in Electrical engineering. im not sure what happens now? Do I need an account set up with Tecol too?
Many thanks
Craig Herkes
Craig
You probably now have already received instruction as to the next step on enrollment, BTEC registration and course material access, but if not, please email admin@tecol.co.uk or call us on 0800 2289215
I am interested in a certificate/award in engineering(motor vehicle) you say there are practical assessments so how are these actually conducted given the units are home study and will any car do?
About 20% is practical. Evidence is shown via photos/video
Hi
I’m looking at becoming an engineer and require electrical qualifications, which level course that you offer would be best for this? I would want to sign up for a four year course for example when a one or two year course is enough.
thanks lewis
Lewis my recommendation would either start with a short 3 unit course, or if you are fully committed to this career path then 9 or 12 unit level diploma.
You can also ring Tecol to discuss further.
Hello,
I am currently studying the 12 unit L3 General Engineering Diploma. However there are some extra units I wish to study to broaden my spectrum of knowledge across this course. Is it possible to pick the extra 6 units required for the upgrade to an 18 unit extended diploma?
Yes you can select the additional 6 units for BTEC L3 General engineering
Hi , I would like to apply for the HNC business course but I don’t seem to have much information at all. Like do I have to pay beofre I get told all about my course and resources ect??
As you need a lot more information than is suitable to add here, please ring 08002289215 or email admin@tecol.co.uk who can tell you more about the HNC Business course before purchasing
Hi there, i need an advice to choose a course please.
i am 39 and have 18th edition as latest level 3. currently i am an electrician but want to go towards electrical engineering. please let me know whats best for me to choose, many thanks
If you have a full NVQ level 3 we can bridge you across to HNC. Otherwise we would recommend a full BTEC L3 12 unit Diploma in electrical and electronic engineering.
If this is too much to initially complete, then go for a 6 unit Award and upgrade later to 12 units or move to HNC at that stage.
Hi
I am A Mature Student( electrician) looking to complete a HNC/HND. Pleas advise on the best way forward to acheive this, and the most cost effective route. I have a full time job so this commitment would be evengings and weekends
If you have a full NVQ level 3 we can bridge you across to HNC. Otherwise we would recommend a full BTEC L3 12 unit Diploma in electrical and electronic engineering.
If this is too much to initially complete, then go for a 6 unit Award and upgrade later to 12 units or move to HNC at that stage.
You can also discuss option by calling 08002289215
Hi, do you currently or plan to accept payment from the National skills/adult learning fund provided by the government for your btec level 3 courses?
We do not plan to accept payment from the National skills/adult learning fund
Hi,
I have a nvq lvl 2 and would like to do a HNC in electrical and electronics would you say that the bridging units will suffice for the lvl 3 gap and if not what do you recommend?
No, the bridging is designed for learners who have some L3 qualifications such as L3 NVQ. If you have level 2 only,you will need complete at least a L3 6 unit Award as per the entry requirements stated on our HNCs
Are you accepting Student Finance loans to cover the BTEC Level 3 in Engineering?
No, we done accept student finance loans at present
Hi, is the btec level 3 extended diploma accredited by universities? Is it one of the post-2016 national diplomas?
Yes the extended diploma attracts UCAS points roughly the same as 3 A-levels. To check exactly the points, go to UCAS and enter the exact qualification
If I were to study 20 hours a week, how long would it take to complete a BTEC Level 3 in Mechanical Engineering with 6 units?
I would then hope to move onto a HNC/D
Also, I would be looking to purchase the BTEC within the next few days. Would it be possible to complete on an IPad ? Or will I have to use a computer?
Thanks
Studying 20 hours a week will allow you to complete 6 units within 12 months
I have signed up for a course but I’m unable to reply to the welcome email. It returns a ‘delivery failed’ message any time I send an email to admin@tecol.co.uk
You dont normally to the welcome email, our admin normally will send you instructions on the stages of the enrollment process. If you are have difficulty emailing admin@tecol.co.uk then it looks like your email system or antivirus is blocking you, which is very odd. If still no joy simply ring us on 0800 228 9215 to discuss
Are there any courses suitable for a 16 year old?
He will be taking 1-2 years away from the U.K. but would like to do some study in mechanical engineering during this time?
Thanks
We normally start learners from 18+ but can in exceptional circumstances such as yours, accept learners onto BTEC level 3. Can you send an email with your requirements and your son’s GCSE grades to admin@tecol.co.uk
If I were to start just by doing the stand alone course from the 3-unit. Would I receive a certificate or would you have to complete the full 3-unit in one go? Also, I am due out of the country for 6 months next year. Would I still be able to have access to my account whilst out in Asia to complete it?
Hi I have done 120 credits of open university in Engineering and Technology level 4, I have also done NVQ 3 years ago. I’d like to consider doing the HNC operations course, would I be able to with the Quals I have within 2 years?
Yes you would have completed enough for HNC entry. We also provide free level 3 bridging units if you need to brush up some topics.
Is it possible to start this course with low A-C GCSE Grades?
For Level 3 courses it is possible to start with low A-C GCSE Grades
Will I learn a programming language in the HNC Digital technologies (question mark).
Yes, we are planning to use Python
Hi , how long would it roughly take to complete the btec level 3 electrical 6 unit course please? And what are the assessments, are they practical based or written?
6 units will on average take 12 months to complete
What happens after I complete the HNC in Digital technologies can I progress into the HND in TECOL or do I have to go to another college? unfortunately, other colleges around my city don’t offer the course and that seems to be the case online as well.
Although we havent advertised it, we are approved to off HND in Digital Technologies
I have a question. I have no technician education and no experience on such field at all. I’d like to start new career and become the RME. Is BTEC Level 3 Foundation Award in Mechanical Engineering suitable for the beginning for such begginer as me who like to become the RME? If not are there any available courses on BTEC for the begginers which will help me to start it? I’d like to get in touch with any course advisors to get more info and to discuss about it.
Although you can start with a 3 unit foundation award and upgrade afterwards, the best option is the the 9 unit certificate as this gives a good range of mechanical subjects.
You can certainly discuss your needs and options with our course advisors, just call 0800 228 9215
I am looking to start the full HND course. If I start on a payment plan do I have the opportunity to over pay or do I have to stick to the 11 months. I personally would like to do it in two or three instalments ?
Thanks
Yes contact Admin@tecol,co.uk to customise your payments
You should start at level 3 engineering. I would recommend the BTEC 9 unit engineering certificate
Indeed HND (level 5) can follow HNC (level 4)
We have only start using social media so it is at quite low level.
We have been delivering BTEC qualification since 2014. We are fully accredited by Pearson and our BTEC technical centre number is available on our website as well as our Phone no. email address and address see https://tecol.co.uk/support/