BAE SYSTEMS training centre in Preston has recently undergone major changes. Extra funding from the LSC, made possible by the centre's new Centre of Vocational Excellence (CoVE) status in Aeronautical Engineering, has helped pay for the state-of-art facilities for the apprentices. Apprentices at BAE SYSTEMS in Preston benefit from improved workshop facilities, refurbished electrical areas and a recently decommissioned Tornado, which is being used as a test type by apprentices.

Adult Learning Inspectorate Recognise CoVE

"The CoVE programme has been a catalyst towards other successes, including positive grades is the last Adult Learning Inspectorate (ALI) assessment, a number of students winning local and national awards and maintaining our very high retention and achievement rates," said Stuart Barley, Training Manager.

"Apprenticeships are playing a crucial role in plugging skills gaps, with more than a quarter of a million young people currently enrolled nationwide," said Steve Palmer, Director of the Learning and Skills Council (LSC).

Gold medallists Sir Matthew Pinsent and Garry Herbert hosted the awards ceremony. The awards are the second to be held by the LSC and are designed to recognise employers who are successfully using apprenticeship schemes. The awards were sponsored by City & Guilds, British Gas, BT and Skills for Business.

"The National Apprenticeship Awards provide the perfect opportunity to recognise the outstanding contribution UK businesses are making to raise skills levels, and improve productivity and competitiveness" Palmer said.

Kate Watkins

Has an apprenticeship helped you fly? Tell us how high you can soar in the FE Blog