Rolls-Royce kicks off academy scheme
Construction work has begun on Rolls-Royce's apprentice academy in Derby. The new site has been part financed by £6m from the department of Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS).
Once completed, the enlarged academy will double the number of apprentices it can train each year.
Business secretary Vince Cable joined Rolls-Royce's engineering and technology director Colin Smith to mark the start of construction yesterday.
The new facility, located at the Rolls-Royce Learning and Career Development Centre, will train up to 200 apprentices every year.
Cable said: "Apprenticeships are central to the government’s drive to rebalance our economy and provide businesses with the skills they need to deliver sustained long-term growth. Rolls-Royce is leading the way in this important work to train and equip future employees in the advanced manufacturing sector."
Colin Smith said: "Engineering is a very rewarding career and I believe that an apprenticeship can provide young people with the foundation they need to excel. Our new Apprentice Academy will enable us to double the number of apprenticeships we can offer annually and we hope it will help generate enthusiasm amongst young people for careers in science and engineering."
