College and global tractor manufacturer blaze a trail for agricultural apprentices

COLEG CAMBRIA LLYSFASI has joined forces with a top international agricultural machinery company to train future workers in land-based engineering.

The college has signed-up to a new partnership with Kubota, the Japanese tractor and heavy equipment manufacturer.

Together they have launched the Kubota Apprenticeship Scheme, a three-year block release programme which will blend education at the innovative Denbighshire facility with on-the-job experience.

Simon Parker, an Agricultural Engineering Lecturer at Llysfasi, near Ruthin, says teaming-up with one of the giants of agricultural and construction equipment manufacturing will give their learners a head-start on entering a career in the sector.

“We are very proud to be working with Kubota on this new venture, offering a fantastic training programme for their dealership technicians throughout the whole of the UK and Ireland,” said Mr Parker.

“The three-year block release programme will allow the trainees to enjoy full time employment with their local Kubota dealership as well as formal specialist training during their time in college.

“The qualification they will be studying for is the new City and Guilds Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma, so this is an excellent opportunity for any young person starting their career in land-based engineering.”

Established in 1890, Kubota produces elite-level products from tractors, engines and vending machines to valves and pumps for water purification and sewage treatment.

Michael Bywater, Group Training Manager of Kubota (UK) Limited, believes the union will have a major impact on the future of the industry.

“We are extremely pleased to be working in partnership with Coleg Cambria Llysfasi,” he said.

“This partnership will enable us to train the next generation of dealership technicians to the highest levels, with a view to providing the highest of standards of service to the end user.

“We are proud to support Llysfasi, at the forefront of inspiring the future of the land-based industries.”