Following the success of the Applegate Academy, a traineeship scheme launched in collaboration with Petroc in October last year, plans are now being put in place to join up with a Degree Apprenticeship in Business and Management delivered in partnership with Plymouth University.
The aim is to give up to five students per year the opportunity to study Business and Management to Degree level. The students undertake their studies part-time, achieving a degree over a four to five year period while also being employed.
Mark Stone, Head of UK Partnerships at Plymouth University, outlined that the funding model for degree apprenticeships involves funding from the government and employer, with the apprentice not accumulating student debt. Upon completion of the course, each student will receive a BSc Honours Degree, a Chartered Manager qualification and an additional Chartered Institute of Management certificate whilst also gaining from years of valuable, hands-on experience in the workplace.
Stuart Brocklehurst, Chief Executive Officer of Applegate Marketplace, commented: "We were so impressed with the quality of the business students on the Applegate Academy; this has inspired us to think about how we can further support ambitious young people in Devon and Plymouth.
"I think that this hands-on experience and willingness to ‘get involved’ is absolutely vital when it comes to showing potential employers what you are capable of and giving you an edge, this is why I am so passionate about the new Degree Apprenticeships."
Craig Litster, Assistant Principal at Petroc, has been involved in the partnership from the start. He said: "Applegate Marketplace are so supportive of the college and have invested their time and effort into our learners, and now they are reaping the benefits. I’d love to encourage more local employers to come forward and find out more. We offer a wide range of degrees, from Health and Social Care to Human Biosciences, so there are many opportunities for local businesses to potentially get involved.
"Over the next few years I can see a large proportion of our degrees becoming available via an apprenticeship route, which is really exciting for both students and local employers."