Leeds College of Building University Centre (UC) has announced the graduation of its inaugural cohort of degree-level apprentices.
The group of seven accomplished the BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering Site Management degree apprenticeship and were honored at Leeds Beckett University’s graduation ceremony.
In collaboration with Leeds Beckett University and the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), the college offers a tailored Level 6 program that blends academic study with hands-on experience, addressing industry needs.
Chris Tunningley, Assistant Principal for Adults & Higher Education, shared his delight, saying, “We’re thrilled to witness the success of our first group of degree students. With over 90 students in degree apprenticeship programs, more graduations are anticipated.”
Apprentices engage in a structured curriculum with six modules each year, two of which are online. This flexible approach suits employees across the UK.
The initial degree apprentices were from BAM, working on projects across the nation, including Network Rail and the Tideway Tunnel Super Sewer.
Ian Hunter, Apprenticeship Manager at BAM, lauded the program, stating, “Our apprentices’ remarkable achievement underscores their dedication and hard work. The program at Leeds College of Building, coupled with practical experiences, has paved the way for their success.”
Degree apprentices work towards the Incorporated Engineer (IEng) accreditation via the Institution of Civil Engineers. The usual duration is three and a half years, but BAM’s employees finished in two and a half.
Nikki Carthy, Degree Apprenticeship Curriculum Manager, emphasized the program’s significance, “The Level 6 degree apprenticeship offers a seamless progression. We’re grateful for partners’ support in addressing industry skills gaps.”
Leeds College of Building continues to nurture exceptional civil engineers, with around 250 students enrolled. Last year, BAM’s apprentice, Alisa Ahmad, was named Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT) Apprentice of the Year.
Over five years, higher-level courses constitute 80% of the curriculum. The College received commendation at the West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards 2023 for Training Provider of the Year.
This year, a Construction Quantity Surveyor Degree Apprenticeship launched with BAM and JN Bentley Ltd, a pioneering Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
Enrollments are open for the Construction Quantity Surveying Degree Apprenticeship program, featuring day release starting September 11. To explore this or other opportunities, visit Leeds College of Building’s course search.
