The number of students on apprenticeship programmes at University College Isle of Man has grown by 11%.

Some 388 students are currently involved compared to 348 in the last academic year.

Aaron Bell is one of the current intake. He is a business administration apprentice at the Department of Health and Social Care, currently studying the HNC (Higher National Certificate) administration and IT course at UCM.

He said this method of learning has proven to be very beneficial for him.

He said: ’This apprenticeship opportunity has really built my confidence and led me to acquire more experience in office administration.’

Jo Pretty, principal of UCM, told Business News: ’Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career, and for businesses to build their future workforce.

’The rise in apprenticeships reflect how students and businesses appreciate the diversity of opportunities and value that apprenticeship programmes offer to them.’

Mrs Pretty added: ’Last year, our students in apprenticeships scored an exceptional achievement rate of 84%, which is 20% higher than the UK national benchmark, further demonstrating the effectiveness of this practical approach to learning.’

This is ’Apprenticeship Week’ with the theme of ’Build the Future’.

In line with this, UCM is celebrating the achievements and success of its students in apprenticeships.

Dave Hester, managing director of Swagelok said: ’Isle of Man manufacturing companies continue to rely heavily on the bespoke apprenticeships run by UCM to provide the continuity of skilled labour required to compete in a competitive global market.

’These courses develop the skilled people we need to navigate the complex equipment and processes found in our modern engineering companies here on the island.’

Mr Hester, who represents the engineering and manufacturing sector on the Business agency, added: ’The UCM facilities and trainers give the apprentices an excellent insight into a real production environment, so that they hit the ground running when they join our companies for full time employment.

’We are very proud of our apprenticeship programmes and of the many skilled people who have taken this career path and now contribute to the commercial success of the island’s engineering sector.’

UCM offers courses on apprenticeships, including: agriculture, brickwork, business administration, carpentry and joinery, construction technician, creative arts/media, dental nursing, electrical engineering, electrical installation, manufacturing, hairdressing, hospitality and catering, horticulture, ICT, motor vehicle, engineering, painting and decorating, plumbing and sports.

Those who would like to know more about studying on an apprenticeship programme are invited to attend UCM’s information morning, on Saturday, February 27, from 9.30am -12.30pm.

Most apprenticeships start in September, however if there is a demand from the employers a rolling programme may be provided.