Vocational pathway: Engineering, manufacturing & mechanics

About this resource

This Religious Education and engineering vocational pathways resource demonstrates how RE can contribute to the knowledge, judgement and human understanding required in engineering, manufacturing and mechanical careers. It is suitable for secondary pupils considering careers such as engineering technician, mechanic, machinist, maintenance engineer and manufacturing operative.

The resource explores how beliefs and values can influence attitudes towards innovation, work and the environment, while introducing ethical questions surrounding safety, environmental impact, resource use, product responsibility, risk and harm. It also encourages pupils to consider global supply chains, labour rights, environmental standards and the ways engineering operates across different cultures and communities.

Alongside these issues, the resource highlights transferable skills developed through high-quality RE, including evidence-based reasoning, communication, teamwork, problem solving and consideration of cause and consequence. It provides teachers with a practical way to connect RE, STEM careers, engineering, employability skills and vocational education, showing that technical expertise also requires ethical and responsible decision-making.