Energy - Intermediate 2
The aim of the course is to provide you with an overview of where we get our energy from, the engineering systems that convert it into a more convenient form and the energy conversion processes that take place from fuel being input to energy being generated.
Students will develop an awareness of the impact of the energy sector on the environment and will help the candidates to select the most appropriate career for them within the energy sector.
Course Content
Domestic Solar Hot Water Systems
This Unit introduces a micro generation system which generates heat from solar energy and transfers this heat energy to a heat exchanger and on to other appliances, e.g. hot water tank or under-floor heating system suitable for use in a domestic or small scale industrial building. This is a practical skills based Unit which gives candidates the practical skills to manufacture some of the parts and assemble a small solar hot water panel. Working as part of a team is seen as an essential element of this Unit
Domestic Wind Turbines Systems
This Unit introduces residential or micro generation wind turbine systems which generate electrical energy. This is a practical skills based Unit which will give candidates the ability to wire up an electrical circuit, manufacture parts, assemble and test a small scale wind turbine. The candidates will use prepared components to complete the design and build. Working as part of a team is seen as an essential element of this Unit.
Employability and Careers
Candidates will review their performance in the employability skills undertaken in the two practical based Units; Energy: Domestic Solar Hot Water Systems and Energy: Domestic Wind Turbines Systems and evaluate their own strengths and weaknesses. This Unit will also involve students investigating careers within the energy sector, reflecting on their previously identified strengths and weaknesses and finally selecting which career in the energy sector is most suitable for them.
Energy and the Individual
Candidates will investigate the energy they use over an average year, this will include producing their own Carbon Footprint. In this Unit candidates will use web based Energy and CO2 calculators or will use spreadsheet or paper based calculations to work out their own Carbon Footprint. From the data gained they will review and evaluate their lifestyles to try and reduce the energy they consume and thereby reduce the size of their carbon emissions/footprint.
Oil/Gas Extraction
Candidates will be introduced to the formation of oil and gas fields, the sustainability of these fields and the type of platform construction used on off-shore installations. The methods used to extract oil and gas including, drilling, mud and fluid control will also be investigated.
Conventional Production Technologies and the Grid
Candidates will investigate how conventional energy generation plants support the UK’s total energy needs and review the effect each of them has on the environment. They will investigate systems used to generate electricity using coal, oil, gas, hydro and nuclear energy as a power source. The nation grid and the distribution of energy/power will also be investigated.
Entry Requirements
Three general or credit passes at Standard Grade or three passes at Intermediate 1, and a genuine interest in a career in the energy sector.
Attendance Pattern
The course could be carried out one session (2.5 hours) per week over two years or two sessions (5 hours) per week over one year.
Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon 1.30pm to 4pm over one year is the preferred option. Alternative afternoons may be available if mutually agreeable to school and college.
Progression Options
The Intermediate 2 Energy Skills for Work course has been designed to provide a basis for progression into further education or for moving directly into training or employment within the energy sector.
This course will prepare you for a variety of careers, including Mechanical, Building Services, Civil/Structural and Environmental Engineering, Plumbing and Electrical Installation.