This document outlines a fully funded research and development training program for engineering and manufacturing companies with fewer than 49 employees, aimed at enhancing R&D skills. Over 13 weeks, participants will complete essential training modules, improving product development, technical communication, and supply chain management. The program also offers progression opportunities to a higher diploma or higher apprenticeship based on eligibility.

1. Research & Development
Studies have shown that companies that invest in
Research & Development (R&D) grow and prosper
regardless of how competitive their markets may
be. This Research & Development training will
increase R&D skills within your business, giving
you the information, knowledge and improved
practices your business needs to succeed. This
high quality training programme is an essential,
flexible and rewarding experience.
For eligible organisations, it is being fully funded
by the European Social Fund so there is no cost
to you.
Why you need this training?
• Is your business lacking R&D skills and knowledge?
• Could your technicians or engineers benefit from
structured R&D training?
• Would your business benefit from creating new and
improved products, processes and services to fill market
needs?
• Would your business benefit from greater
understanding of the latest thinking on technical
communication, innovation and commercialisation, and
supply chain management?
Following this training, your business will
have the ability to:
• Improve their new product, process and service
development skills
• Improve connectivity between front end manufacturing
process and production
• Lower incidence of failure in manufacturing through
critical prevention tools
• Protect your intellectual property (IP)
• Communicate effectively on all technical matters with
suppliers and customers
• Manage supply chains
• Improve the growth and competitiveness of your
business
Who is Research &
Development suitable for?
Employees in any engineering and
manufacturing company with less than 49
employees. This is Level 4 based training
so learners should have STEM subjects:
Level 2 GCSEs grade C+, UCAS 120 A
Levels, equivalent Technical diploma or be
a Graduate. Alternatively, learners qualify
if they have experience of working in R&D
and are over age 24.
If you have ten or more people, this
Research & Development training can be
delivered exclusively within your company.
If your company meets the eligibility
criteria this training is fully funded for new
or existing employees aged 19 or over who
work at least 16 hours a week and meet UK
residency criteria.
Pathway Group
putting you first

2. The learning in detail
This Research & Development training is assignment
based through an online learning platform. This provides
peer learning, support from tutors, a community
environment and library for learning. The assignment
based nature of units means it is aligned to an individual’s
work, so they can incorporate what they have leant into
their working practices very quickly.
Progression
After completion, learners have the option to complete
the remaining units (at a cost) and qualify for the full
Higher Diploma. They could also commence the Level
4 NVQ alongside the diploma and work towards the
full Higher Apprenticeship in Research & Development.
Some funding may be available towards completing the
full Higher Apprenticeship depending on eligibility.
How much time do workers need to
be released for and commit to?
This Research & Development training consists of four
of the mandatory units from the Higher Diploma in
Research and Development and is completed over 13
weeks. Learners will be required to spend an average
of 4-8 hours a week to complete all the elements of the
programme, giving the learner a minimum of 37 credits
towards the 135 credits of the Higher Diploma in Research
and Development. Online tutorial support will also be
provided to enable the learner to discuss matters relating
to the progress of assessed elements.
Fast facts:
• Completed over 13 weeks
• Suitable for technicians or engineers
• Suitable for engineering and
manufacturing companies
• Provides immediate results and
benefits
• Option to complete additional units for
a nationally recognised Higher Diploma
Qualification
Why Pathway Group?
Pathway Group is an established education
and training provider, with over 15 years
of experience. Pathway has developed
its expertise as a NVQ/QCF provider and
supports SMEs with recruitment and
training.
The Research & Development qualification
has been developed in partnership with
the Skills Funding Agency and awarding
bodies such as EDI, City & Guilds and ILM.
This nationally recognised qualification is
delivered by qualified assessors and we
assure you that the training modules will
increase your employee’s skills.
Next Steps...
To check your organisations eligibility for
funding and to book an appointment with
our business advisors, please contact us on:
Tel: 0121 707 0550 / 0800 955 0870
Email: info@pathwaygroup.co.uk
Website: www.pathwaygroup.co.uk
Pathway Group
putting you first