Open Event
15 October 2026
Join us at our Open Event and discover what makes St John Rigby one of the most popular choices for students across the region.
The AAQ in Engineering develops learners’ knowledge and understanding of the mathematical and physical concepts which underpin the skills needed to solve a range of engineering problems. This course is ideal for students interested in going on to study degrees within the many fields of Engineering at University, and completion of this course supports applications to higher apprenticeships with an engineering company, should you choose a more vocational progression after college. This course also complements A Levels such as Maths and Physics, supporting study in these fields.
College entry including GCSE Science minimum Grade 6,6 or if triple science is taken GCSE Physics 6. GCSE Maths 6 or above is essential. (Please note A Level Mathematics should be taken alongside this qualification otherwise this can cause restrictions in the future)
Coursework 50%
Examination 50%
he course includes two exams and two vocational-style coursework units.
The qualification has been developed in consultation with higher education representatives and professional bodies to ensure students have the knowledge, understanding and skills they need to progress to, and thrive in, higher education.
The qualification has four mandatory units covering the following topics:
• Engineering Principles: Engineering data and applying mathematical procedures in mechanical and electrical contexts.
• Engineering Applications: Advances in modern technology and how they are reshaping the engineering sector’s function; materials and processes to devise sustainable solutions to engineering problems.
• Engineering Design: Three-dimensional (3D) models and two-dimensional (2D) detailed drawings using a computer-aided design (CAD) system.
• Engineering Project: Project management processes in Engineering products from concept to solution.
The first two units on this list are externally assessed through examination, and the final two are internally assessed through coursework. The coursework element will enable you to develop other skills desired by both universities and employers including critical thinking, problem solving and creative thinking.
This Engineering course compliments Physics and Mathematics A Level and provides an insight into the different types of engineering that you could do at University. This could include degrees in electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering or material science. This qualification also support your application to degree apprenticeships in Engineering.
Course activities to prepare for your SJR studies.
For Year 11 students who have applied and will be joining us in Year 12
Our Elective Programme is designed to help you develop your gifts and interests as part of an enhanced level 3 programme. We will help you realise your potential by nurturing your talent and preparing you for study at the most prestigious universities or for progression to competitive higher-level apprenticeships. Your options range from our Honours Programme, which might include following a fourth A level, to specialist Futures Programmes that will support your career goals.
If you’re not quite ready to start on a Level 3 Technical course (T Levels) or a Vocational Level 3 course (BTEC) but want to begin on the path to your chosen career, the Transition Programme could be for you.
Transition Programmes are tailored to prepare students to move onto Technical or Vocational Level 3 study. They will give you the opportunity to improve your English and Maths, your work readiness skills and introduce you to the technical skills and concepts that you will need for future study and employment.
As part of the Transition Programme you will study a BTEC Level 2 Award in your chosen subject area as well as the BTEC Level 2 Extended Award in Work Skills. You will also have the opportunity to resit GCSE English and/or Maths if you have not yet achieved a grade 4.
Entry criteria for Transition Programmes is four grade 3s including grade 3s in English Language and Maths GCSE.