A Cheshire College learner has completed a degree apprenticeship with the region’s largest provider of post-16 education.
Third year apprentice James Millington had a desire to start working in the motor industry straight after completing his A Levels.
So he joined Cheshire College as a Higher Education learner and earned a chance to work with Bentley Motors in their Powertrain Engineering department.
Now he has achieved a Higher National Certificate (HNC) and Higher National Diploma (HND) both to distinction level and is currently working towards a top-up degree in Electrical & Electronic Engineering.
He said: “I have learnt so much since starting my Apprenticeship and continue to do so every day.
“Completing my HNC and HND in two years allowed me to further develop my understanding of specialist sector knowledge which has proved to be a strong foundation for the new learning I have embarked upon this year.
“Whilst studying, I’ve also been able to work in many areas within Bentley and build a strong contact network who have helped me develop the skills and tools I will need for my future career in the industry.
“Completing my Degree Apprenticeship with Cheshire College has come with so many added benefits to help me progress from full-time education into the world of work.”
Tom Russell, Early Careers Lead at Bentley Motors, added: “James has proved himself to be a real asset to Bentley during his Degree Apprenticeship so far.
“Through his qualifications and on the job learning he has been able to deliver real impact to tasks and deliverables, and has even led a number of projects himself.
“He is a fine example of why apprenticeships are so valuable to businesses and individuals, delivering real work experiences interwoven with high level academic study.”
Claire Barton, Dean of Higher Education at Cheshire College, said: “James’ experience is a fantastic example of how our learners can successfully progress through the various stages of undergraduate study with us whilst working at the same time.
“All our study programmes ensure learners can reach their full potential alongside commitments outside of College with a strong focus on offering industry-relevant courses alongside flexible timetabling and support facilities.”
To find out more about Higher Education at Cheshire College visit https://www.ccsw.ac.uk/higher-education-2/
