UK’s Leading Construction College Launches First Degree Apprenticeship

Leeds College of Building (@WeAre_LCB) is celebrating after gaining accreditation to launch a new BSc Hons Civil Engineering – Site Management degree apprenticeship.

Having recently franchised the course delivered at Leeds Beckett University, the College can now deliver its first-ever degree apprenticeship. The distinct civil engineering pathway combines academic study at degree level with practical on-the-job experience. 

The programme is designed to meet the needs of businesses and allow the recruitment of new talent or the development of existing staff. The course is aimed at those wishing to progress on to careers in civil engineering site management but also for project management companies, government agencies, local authorities and modelling specialists.

The degree apprenticeship develops graduates’ skills, giving them the opportunity to work on major projects such as designing large structures and various infrastructure, including roads, water supply/drainage, bridges, airports, tunnels, sea and flood defences, and structures supporting energy supply and transmission. 

Apprentices will be in full-time employment whilst attending the College on a block release basis. This delivery model enables the recruitment of students from across the UK. Utilising a blended learning approach, apprentices will study for six independent one-week blocks throughout the year, two of which will be taught via distance learning. 

The course will take up to three and a half years to complete depending on previous qualifications gained.

Nikki Davis, Vice Principal for Teaching & Learning, said:

“This degree apprenticeship is an exciting development for Leeds College of Building. The programme is the first-ever degree-level apprenticeship we have offered, enabling continuity and offering an additional progression route for our students, from level 3 up to level 6.

“We’re very grateful for the support of our higher education partner, Leeds Beckett University. We look forward to continuing our vital work together and helping more engineers to enhance their careers and our society.” 

Steena Nasapen-Watson, Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) Regional Director for Yorkshire and Humber said;

“It is always encouraging for the Civil Engineering profession when an apprenticeship training provider is able to offer further opportunities for potential and current apprentices to learn and progress towards professional qualification through the apprenticeship route.

“The announcement by Leeds College of Building helps strengthen the apprenticeship model as an alternative pathway to an internationally recognised qualification which demonstrates high levels of capability and commitment.” 

Degree apprentices work towards an end-point assessment with the Institution of Civil Engineers. Students can attain the sought-after Incorporated Engineer (IEng) status on successful completion, a title acquired by professionally recognised civil engineers.

The College’s in-house apprenticeship team is available to support employers and apprentices with understanding the apprenticeship levy, recruitment of apprentices, and providing support during an apprentice’s training.