Member Article

Leeds Trinity University hits apprenticeship milestone

Leeds Trinity University is celebrating the success of its Centre for Apprenticeships, Work-based Learning and Skills during National Apprenticeship Week (February 8 to 12).

Launched one year ago, the Centre is home to the University’s higher and degree apprenticeship programmes and work-based learning provision.

Claire Newhouse, Director of the Centre for Apprenticeships, Work-based Learning and Skills, said: “Since launching the Centre in February 2020, the University has signed up 500 learners with over 100 employers. Our dedicated team of specialists provide teaching, support and advice for both apprentices and employers alike through our professionally relevant programmes created in response to employer demand, whilst also addressing the skills gaps that will help to rebuild the economy.

“As the Centre continues to evolve, we look forward to expanding our provision and equipping businesses with a skilled workforce – vital to performance and economic growth.”

Leeds Trinity University introduced degree apprenticeships in October 2017 with a cohort of 15 apprentices on the Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship programme.

Since then, the University has welcomed apprentices across nine additional programmes, offering apprenticeships in: Business to Business (B2B) Sales, Chartered Management, Digital Marketing, Software Engineering, Senior Leadership, Supply Chain Leadership, Children, Young People and Families and Police Constable.

A partnership with West Yorkshire Police has seen 300 new police officers studying for a Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship and the Graduate Diploma in Professional Policing with the University since last July.

Further programmes are planned to be launched over the coming year.

Many of the apprenticeships at Leeds Trinity are developed using the University’s Work-based Learning Framework, which is a flexible way to give value to the knowledge and skills which are developed in the workplace.

Dan Lancaster-Holmes, Relationship Manager at the Centre, added: “Benefits for apprentices going through apprenticeships and work-based learning at Leeds Trinity University include being paid during an apprenticeship and having no tuition fees to pay. All costs are covered by the apprentice’s employer and the government, so those taking part get a debt-free university experience.

“Alongside these benefits, apprentices study part-time here at Leeds Trinity, building on their experience in the workplace.”

Leeds Trinity works with a large number of businesses through the programme, to address higher-level skills gaps efficiently and effectively by tailoring the learning to their workplace to enhance business performance and economic growth.

Additional benefits for employers include helping to attract and retain higher calibre staff, providing opportunities for existing staff to progress, and developing a more motivated and committed workforce.

The apprentice with big ambitions

Kelcie Winch is an apprentice on Leeds Trinity University’s Supply Chain Leadership degree apprenticeship programme.

Having started working part-time at global healthcare company Henry Schein whilst studying graphic design at college five years ago, the 21-year-old is now an Operations Assistant.

Kelcie said: “I chose this apprenticeship because my future goals are to become a manager. Working with people and guiding people is so rewarding, which is why I want to go higher up within my company.

“My experience with Leeds Trinity University has been fantastic. I could not ask for better tutors or for a better university. I am over the moon with my progress and I have learnt so much. I would highly recommend going to Leeds Trinity.”

And she has big ambitions for the future.

“I am hoping to successfully pass my degree and then I would like to step up to become manager and see where life takes me.

“My ultimate dream goal is to become CEO, but I believe to never give up and always chase your dreams. Anything is possible.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Beth Chaplow .