How it works
How the training works
A live class to learn the core skills quickly, self-paced modules to build the background, and help with applications at the end. Here is every step.
Step by step
From first install to certificate
- Before day one
Step 1: Get set up
When you enrol you get access to the student portal and a getting-started module: how to install Siemens TIA Portal and PLCSIM, and Factory I/O for simulated machines. You need a Windows PC or laptop that meets Siemens' requirements.
Start practising straight away with the free PLC simulator and ladder logic simulator.
- Monday to Friday, on Microsoft Teams
Step 2: Five live days
An instructor teaches a group of up to 10. Each topic is demonstrated, then you build it yourself in TIA Portal and test it in simulation. When you get stuck, you share your screen.
- Days 1–2, PLC programming: TIA Portal, S7 PLC hardware configuration, ladder logic, simulation and testing with PLCSIM.
- Day 3, HMI: HMI projects, screens and navigation, and linking the HMI to the PLC.
- Days 4–5, WinCC SCADA: Tags, graphics and animation, alarms and events, trends and historical data, then a project review.
- After the live days
Step 3: Basic Engineering, at your own pace
Video modules in the student portal fill in the engineering background around the programming: electrical and mechanical fundamentals, instrumentation, pneumatics and hydraulics, control systems, robotics, industrial networks, maintenance, and safety and standards. Each module ends with a short quiz.
The portal tracks your progress, keeps your notes with each lesson, and lets you send a question to the trainer.
- When you are ready
Step 4: Resume session
Upload your CV in the portal and book a one-to-one session with our career team. You get feedback on your CV, seven role-specific templates, and help preparing for interviews. Then use the job board in the portal.
- At the end
Step 5: Final assessment
A theory assessment in the portal covering the live course and the Basic Engineering modules.
- Issued automatically
Step 6: Certificate
CPD certificate worth 80 CPD credits, accredited by The CPD Group. It is issued when you have done both of these, and employers can check it at edwartens.co.uk/verify:
- Pass the final theory assessment (80% or more)
- Have your practical project approved by an engineer (80% or more)
Practice
Simulation instead of a training rig
The course does not use physical PLC hardware. You program real Siemens software and test it against simulated processes: PLCSIM for the controller, Factory I/O for machines and conveyors, and our free browser lab for quick exercises.
That means you can practise at home, as often as you like, after the course ends. Employers are mainly interested in whether you can explain and build working logic; a portfolio of simulated projects shows that.
Support
Help while you learn
- During the live days: ask the instructor directly, and share your screen.
- Afterwards: send questions from any Basic Engineering lesson in the portal.
- Notes, progress and quiz results are saved in your account.
- Questions about enrolment or payment: contact us.
Prefer not to join a live class?
Honest limits
Questions
About the live course
New to PLCs? Try the free PLC courses or the free ladder logic course first. See all four courses.
How long is the live online PLC course?
What do I need for the live course?
Is it a regulated qualification?
Can I try PLC programming free first?
Join the next Monday cohort
Reserve your seat with a £100 deposit and pay the balance before the start.
