Thirty-seven skilled agricultural engineering technicians have marked the completion of their apprenticeships at Reaseheath College, Nantwich.
The apprentices, who attend college on a block release basis, are employed by the UK and Ireland dealer network for leading manufacturers such as CASE, New Holland, CLAAS and JCB.
Recognised as one of the UK’s leading colleges for land based engineering, Reaseheath is a key training provider for these companies, which have considerable input into the programme to ensure it delivers the practical skills and technical knowledge required by the industry. The companies donate top-of-the-range machinery and equipment for the apprentices’ technical training and the programme includes manufacturer-specific sessions offsite.
The apprentices, who are selected by their employers for progression, study in Reaseheath’s new Advanced Engineering and Agri-Tech Centre and achieve an IMI Level 3 Diploma in Land Based Technology on completion. There are 150 technicians on this thriving three year programme,
Individual Awards went to:
Apprentice of the Year Harry James (Lloyd Ltd., Newcastle)
Best practical apprentice Matthew Jones (Pontesbury Tractors, Shropshire)
Best academic apprentice Rupert Hayes (Ernest Doe, Suffolk)
Award for Endeavour Jonathan Randon (Manns, Market Harborough)
Engine Project Award Louis Copeland (CLAAS Eastern, York)
Best JCB Apprentice Tom Jellis (Olivers, Luton)
Course manager Tom Scott said: “This was a very competent cohort who will progress into successful careers in the agricultural engineering industry. Their companies have recognised their potential and have invested in them by funding their continuing education.
“I would like to thank the manufacturers and their dealer network for their continued support of the students and their commitment to the training programme.”
