Brockenhurst College has recognised that skilled engineers are in significant demand across the UK, and are pleased to be launching a new Advanced Engineering Apprenticeship to help fill the current shortage experienced by a range of sectors that require highly-qualified engineering professionals.
Apprenticeships offer many advantages and may be a better option than university for some students. Practical work experience, alongside studying for recognised qualifications, opens up real career opportunities and the potential for further study at a higher level.
In developing the new Advanced Engineering Apprenticeship, Brockenhurst has formed partnerships with local established engineering firms, and have Apprenticeships currently available with Engineering & Developments LTD, Redmayne Engineering and Silclear Ltd.
Course Leader Julian Knott said: “Brockenhurst has successfully supported Apprenticeship programmes within the marine industry, working closely with Berthon Boat Company, as well as other organisations, so branching out into engineering is a natural progression.”
David Horbury, Production Manager at Engineering & Developments LTD, commented:
“This is an exciting new venture and we are proud to play a part in it. Young engineers are key to our growing business and the scheme allows the development of skills which can be passed on to new engineers for the future of our industry.”
Tayler Lyndhurst, 17, has recently completed sixth form study Brockenhurst College and is now planning on pursuing an Apprenticeship in an Engineering or Marine sector. She said: “I know I want to create things, and ideally be involved with design. An Apprenticeship allows me to be in the real world, earning real money whilst training towards a real qualification. It seems like the ideal opportunity and will provide me with excellent career options.”
Compared to the option of university, an Apprenticeship offers many advantages – and for students who prefer a more practical training experience, this can be an extremely rewarding choice. Apprenticeships are certainly not a second-best option, but a way of gaining valuable workplace skills and experience while progressing towards work-based learning qualifications, such as an NVQ Level 3. Advanced Apprenticeships also provide an opportunity for progression to higher education, including a Higher Apprenticeship, and are well respected qualifications that are recognised by employers all over the world.
If you’d like to discuss our current opportunities, please email apprenticeships@brock.ac.uk or call Alison Herbert on 01590 625313