Technical Bootcamps

The Skills Bootcamp in EV and Charging Infrastructure is an intensive programme designed to equip participants with the technical knowledge and practical competencies required to install, inspect, and maintain electric vehicle charge points (EVCPs) in line with current UK regulations. Delivered by industry-qualified professionals and based on the nationally recognised EAL Level 3 Award in the Requirements for the Installation of Electric Vehicle Charging Points, the course covers the following key components:

• Introduction to EV Charging Infrastructure: Overview of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), health and safety considerations, and site readiness checks.
• Domestic and On-Street Installation Standards: Key requirements for installations in homes, residential streets, and public settings.
• Commercial Charging Installations: Planning, testing, and commissioning of larger-scale systems in workplaces and retail spaces.
• Inspection, Testing and Commissioning: Safe system set-up, fault finding, and compliance with IET Wiring Regulations

Click below to register your interest for future courses.

This Skills Bootcamp provides the opportunity for those with experience in the automotive sector specifically vehicle maintenance both light and heavy and vehicle paint to upskill; and begin the journey into a career within an aircraft maintenance hangar. Time served experience would be considered, ideally applicants should hold a Level 3 automotive qualification.  

Applicants with engineering maintenance experience and qualification would also be considered. 

This Skills Bootcamp is delivered in partnership with Exeter Aerospace who are based on Exeter International Airport. On completion of the programme, you will be guaranteed a job interview with Exeter Aerospace or another aircraft maintenance facility.

The Skills Bootcamp will cover three specific modules those entering a Maintenance Repair Organisation (MRO) within a maintenance environment will need:

1. Regulation and compliance for working in an MRO environment.
2. Human Factors – This is one of the initial modules covered as part of a Civil Aviation Authority licence.
3. Transferable skills, the transition from the automotive sector to the aviation sector.

For more information please contact one of our Advisers:

Email: skillsbootcamps@exe-coll.ac.uk

Call: 01392 400800

Applicants for this course need to be:

• Employed or self-employed within the automotive sector or currently unemployed but must have worked in the automotive sector and can demonstrate a wealth of experience 

To apply you will need to meet the following criteria:

• Must hold a level 3 automotive or engineering maintenance qualification
• You were aged 19 on or before 31 August 2025
• You have the right to work in the UK.
• You have lived in the UK or EU/EAA for the last 3 years or have a residency status that makes you exempt from this rule.
• English skills including written/spoken required with Level 1 being the minimum.
• You have not completed another Skills Bootcamp in this current financial year.
• You are committed to participating in delivery sessions for 10 weeks.
• This course is open to aged 19+ residents of Devon only who have a right to work in the UK.
• You must be located within Devon, Torbay or Plymouth

All applicants will be assessed at interview.

This Introduction to Careers at Sea Skills Bootcamp is an exciting new Level 3 short programme designed for individuals currently not in employment, education or training. Across two weeks, you’ll learn in South Devon College Marine Academy’s workshops and classrooms, get out on the water and visit commercial marine businesses, all while gaining industry-recognised qualifications and exploring what a career at sea could look like for you.

What to Expect

• Theory: Build a strong foundation in maritime knowledge including key terminology, vessel types, construction, propulsion systems, buoyancy and ship stability.

• Practical Skills: Get hands-on in our marine engineering workshop, operating and diagnosing real marine engines. Step into our 360-degree vessel simulator and take command of a 24-metre beam trawler or Offshore Crew Transfer Vessel during a challenging scenario.

• On the Water: The opportunity to replay scenarios practiced in the simulator aboard one of the marine academy’s training vessels on the River Dart accompanied by a professional and qualified training instructor (weather permitting).

• Safety Training: Complete a Seafish-approved Basic Firefighting and / or Seafish Basic Sea Survival qualification, both essential industry safety standards and required to work at sea on commercial fishing vessels. This course, if available, includes a practical assessment conducted in a swimming pool.

• Careers and Employability: Visit a commercial port, meet employers and crew members and subject to operational availability, visit a commercial fishing vessel or workboat

Click the link below to register your interest for future courses.

This Introduction to Maritime Engineering and Careers in the Royal Navy Skills Bootcamp is an exciting new Level 3 short programme designed for individuals currently not in employment, education, or training. Across two weeks, you’ll learn in South Devon College Marine Academy’s workshops and classrooms, get out on the water and visit Royal Navy establishments all while gaining industry-recognised qualifications and exploring what a career at sea could look like for you. At the end of the course every participant will have an interview with a member of the Royal Navy’s recruitment team.

What to Expect:

• Theory
• Practical Skills
• On the Water
• Safety Training
• Careers and Employability

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The Introduction to Renewables course is designed as a L4 beginner-level Skills Bootcamp that provides a comprehensive overview of renewable energy technologies, their applications, and their role in addressing global energy challenges. Students will learn about different types of clean energy, including solar, wind, hydropower, biomass, geothermal, and ocean energy. The course also looks at how these energy sources can help solve global problems like climate change and energy shortages.

This course is structured to include online tutor-led sessions, practical workshops, and weekly tutorials to ensure holistic academic development. The mix of theoretical lessons and hands-on activities provides a well-rounded understanding of the subject, making it accessible to beginners with no prior knowledge of renewable energy.

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Learners completing the Skills Bootcamp in Renewables and Solar Energy will gain practical, job-ready skills in solar PV installation, battery storage, and system design, enabling them to contribute immediately to real-world renewable energy projects

The Solar PV component covers safety, planning, and regulatory compliance including DC/AC principles, circuit protection, and earthing. Learners will explore PV system components and configurations for both roof-mounted and ground-mounted installations, undertake system design and efficiency calculations, and gain hands-on experience with cable installation, weatherproofing, and inverter connection.

The Battery Storage / Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS) module includes statutory legislation and health and safety protocols specific to energy storage. Learners will study battery technologies—such as lithium-ion and lead-acid systems – along with their chemistry, safety, and degradation characteristics. They will also be trained in EESS design, specification, site assessment, installation, inspection, testing, and customer handover.

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Are you ready to launch a rewarding new career?

The Photonics Skills Bootcamp is a brand-new Level 3 short course designed for individuals not currently in employment, education, or training and it could be your gateway into an exciting, future-proof industry.

What is Photonics?

Photonics is the science and technology of light, the transmission, manipulation, and detection of photons. From smartphones and medical lasers to fibre-optic communication and clean energy systems, photonics powers many of the world’s most advanced technologies.

Recognised multiple times in the UK Government’s 10-Year Industrial Strategy, the photonics sector is a cornerstone of innovation and growth making it a smart, long-term career choice for anyone seeking a high-value, engaging, and impactful profession.

Our Photonic Skills Bootcamp offers a well-balanced blend of:

• Theory – Gain a general overview of photonics.
• Group Research – Explore real-world applications and emerging trends.
• Practical Experience – Gain hands-on skills using industry-relevant tools and methods.
• Employability Skills – Build the confidence and competence employers are looking for.

You’ll discover the global photonics landscape, understand the UK’s leading role, and take a closer look at the local Torbay Hi Tech Cluster – home to a thriving community of over 30 companies specialising in electronics and photonics innovation.

A Thriving Local Industry

Headquartered just up the road from South Devon College at the EPIC (Electronics & Photonics Innovation Centre), the Torbay High Tech Cluster is at the forefront of technological advancement. With the centre now operating at full capacity, Torbay Council is investing in a new Torbay Technology Park to provide space for these fast-growing companies to expand, collaborate, and create new opportunities.

Click below to register your interest for future courses and how you can begin your journey into the world of photonics.

The Welding Skills Bootcamp will provide you with the knowledge and practical skills to get started in a career in welding or which may be used to develop new business opportunities. This Skills Bootcamp will include:

• a basic introduction to welding and the different types of welding
• an introduction to advanced welding and the different typesof advanced welding
• welding techniques using augmented welding – MMA and MIG welders
• preparing and using MMA welders
• preparing and using MIG welders

Click below to register your interest for future courses.