To provide nationwide access to its apprenticeship programmes, Make UK is launching a suite of online courses. This includes an online Business Improvement course at levels two, three and five and a brand-new Continuous Improvement programme for level two apprentices.
By broadening access to the programme outside of its traditional Midlands catchment area, Make UK can help develop skilled business improvement professionals in partnership with manufacturing businesses across the UK.
Scheduled for a November launch, the new online level two Business Improvement course will focus primarily on lean manufacturing — the ideology of maximising productivity while minimising waste. The apprentices will work in-person with their chosen employer, while having 24/7 access to Make UK’s online learning materials and regular synchronous support from a Lecturer. Make UK’s Technology Hub in Birmingham is also available to students in need of an in-person visit or who require additional support with their training.
The skills learnt during the course can be transferred into any business, even those outside of manufacturing and engineering, expanding the variety of businesses apprentices can gain careers in. The online learning environment maximises opportunity for student access and gives both students and employers greater flexibility over their schedules.
While in the past, Make UK apprenticeships were primarily undertaken by apprentices and employers both based in the West Midlands, often Birmingham-based, the online programmes mean employers across the UK can access Make UK trained apprentices.
“Make UK kickstarted its online business improvement programmes with the introduction of an online level five Improvement Specialist apprenticeship last year,” said Dr Kevin Flint, Senior Lecturer for Make UK. “It was a huge success, so we’ve decided to roll it out more widely. By offering online courses across the spectrum of business improvement, a much larger number of employers and apprentices will be able to participate in our apprenticeship schemes.
“Our online course offers all the benefits of a traditional apprenticeship, such as hands on experience with an employer and the ability to earn while you learn, but also has added flexibility and teaches a hidden curriculum of technology and communication skills, which are critical in today’s fast paced business environment,” added Kevin.
