To provide nationwide access to its apprenticeship programmes, leading manufacturing trade body
Make UK is launching a new suite of online courses which includes an online Business Improvement course at levels two, three and five and a new Continuous Improvement programme for level two apprentices. By broadening access to the programme outside of its traditional Midlands catchment area, Make UK’s aim is to help develop skilled Business Improvement professionals in partnership with manufacturing businesses around the UK.
Scheduled to be launched in November, 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 for those that 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 in the West Midlands, often in Birmingham, online programmes mean employers around the UK can now access Make UK-trained apprentices.
Dr Kevin Flint, Make UK senior lecturer, said: “Make UK kickstarted its online business improvement programmes with the introduction of an online level five improvement specialist apprenticeship last year. It was a huge success, so we have now 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.”
Prospective students can register to attend an Open Day or view vacancies for the September 2022 intake on the Make UK website (
www.makeuk.org). Employers interested in offering a Continuous Improvement apprenticeship with Make UK can contact business development director Mark Farrant byy email ().