Throwing away the L Plates at Newton Rigg
21/02/05

THROWING away L Plates is a skill learned by lots of young students at Newton Rigg.

New figures released today reveal a pass rate of 75 per cent amongst agricultural apprentices that is 44 per cent ABOVE the national average.

“It's a fantastic success story,” declared Ronnie Hattle, Work Based Learning Manager at the University of Central Lancashire's Penrith Campus.

And the pass rate for agricultural engineering apprentices is almost as impressive - at 72 per cent it is 39 per cent ABOVE the national average.

Mr Hattle cited the university's strong commitment to ensuring that the apprentices' education is relevant to their needs in the real world for the excellent results.

“Our apprentices respond very positively to the grounding they receive at Newton Rigg - they are always a credit to this campus,” he said.

The apprenticeship programmes lead to valuable NVQ Level 2 qualifications that significantly boost job prospects.

“Work placements are either on local farms or in engineering workshops and students complete either day or block release courses at the campus,” added Mr Hattle.

“Some apprentices may have to achieve up to nine separate qualifications to gain their full apprenticeships. This means that they have a wide range of skills and knowledge which they can apply in the world of work.”

Whilst some successful apprentices throw away their L plates to take up full-time jobs many continue their education on a part or full-time basis.

The success looks set to continue in other fields as the university is now extending apprenticeship opportunities in forestry and game & wildlife.