A Cheshire College learner has completed a degree apprenticeship with the region\u2019s largest provider of post-16 education.<\/p>\n
Third year apprentice James Millington had a desire to start working in the motor industry straight after completing his A Levels.<\/p>\n
So he joined Cheshire College as a Higher Education learner and earned a chance to work with Bentley Motors in their Powertrain Engineering department.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
He said: “I have learnt so much since starting my Apprenticeship and continue to do so every day.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
“Whilst studying, I\u2019ve 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.<\/p>\n
“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.”<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
“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.”<\/p>\n
Claire Barton, Dean of Higher Education at Cheshire College, said: “James\u2019 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.<\/p>\n
“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.”<\/p>\n