Local apprentices made leaps with Lancashire Engaging Apprentices Programme

Part-funded by the European Social Fund, LEAP supported key local and national priorities to recruit and retain more apprentices and encourage progression to higher level training and education. The project funding was awarded in June 2021 and concluded in December 2023.

The LEAP project was delivered by a consortium of eight organisations led by the University of Central Lancashire. The delivery partners were Blackburn College, Burnley College, Blackpool and the Fylde College, Lancaster and Morecambe College, Lancashire Work-based Learning Forum, Myerscough College and North Lancashire Training Group (NLTG), and the University of Central Lancashire.

A total of 345 participants were supported by the LEAP University of Central Lancashire delivery team through a variety of activities. These activities included training courses and workshops that enhance workplace development: report writing, presentation skills, productivity, coaching, IT skills, communication, conflict and project management. The project also provided coaching and mentoring on a one-to-one basis to support personal development and apprenticeship achievement.

The LEAP project’s main beneficiaries were apprentices employed in Lancashire-based SMEs, their workplace mentors and individuals considering a higher apprenticeship to support their career development. Additional beneficiaries were employers, business owners and managers exploring apprenticeships within their business. Meetings and information sessions with employers provided an insight into higher apprenticeships, how they work, and the costs and benefits of apprentices in the workplace.

The LEAP project impacted participants by helping them to learn new skills and gain increased confidence to succeed in their apprenticeships and develop their career. Positive feedback reported from the University participants included gaining support to overcome the academic and time challenges of an apprenticeship, alongside an increased understanding of degree and master’s level apprenticeship opportunities to support talent management in local businesses.

Ruth Poar from Eat My Logo attended a free Excel Intermediate workshop: “It was an amazing session with so much information. There was so much to practice, and I have more confidence to use Excel than I have ever had before. Thank you so much.”

Companies, such as, Alsico Laucuba Ltd., also reaped the benefits with Louise Tracey sharing her experience: “Learning went above my expectations, and I can't wait to practice and start implementing in my job role. It was delivered at a good pace and understanding for all abilities, very clear to follow and enthusiastic. A great course which I would highly recommend.”

The project team were able to address some challenges highlighted by the apprentices, such as time constraints to attend courses and to complete assessments which was difficult whilst working full-time. To solve this the LEAP team provided multiple course dates and online delivery options which provided the flexibility to suit participants' commitments.

Whilst this project has closed, the University actively supports regional businesses. Find out more through our Enterprise and Engagement Unit who will review your enquiry and signpost you to the most appropriate area of continuing support.