Increasing numbers of young people across the West Midlands are taking up apprenticeships at Solihull College; this is being matched with the number of employers working with the College to offer the programme to learners. This is a promising time as the high value of apprenticeships is starting to be seen by both sides. The College currently has nearly 1500 apprentices.
There is one sector though that is seeing a noticeable increase in numbers; civil engineering has seen a 50% increase in student numbers from 2013, which is a huge jump. Solihull College is able to offer a two-year apprenticeship in Civil Engineering to help learners achieve a Level 3 Construction and the Built Environment qualification; from which there is progression onto a higher apprenticeship which is underpinned by an appropriate HNC.
Shaun Hindle, Senior Director of Employment and Skills at the College comments: “We are really pleased to offer this apprenticeship to our learners. The civil engineering industry is continuing to grow in the West Midlands and as a college; we are pleased to be helping train the next generation of workers”?.
With the current academic year ending, Solihull College’s Employer Services Team is keen to engage with engineering companies across Solihull and Birmingham who are looking to take on an apprentice.
Solihull College work closely with global engineering firm Arup who have a base in Solihull, Kim Blackmore Associate at Arup comments: “Arup have played a key role in Civil Engineering in the West Midlands for nearly 50 years. It is important to keep a fresh stream of new talent within the company so each year we take on several Apprentices across the business.
We look for dynamic and dedicated individuals with a desire to make a difference, who are now ready to take their first step towards a long and fulfilling career in Civil Engineering. Solihull College have consistently provided excellent candidates that have the right blend of skills, enthusiasm and appetite for a challenge that the Apprentice scheme is looking for”?.
To find out more about how an apprenticeship can benefit your business please contact the Solihull College Employer Services Team on 0121 678 7181 or visit www.solihull.ac.uk/apprentice
