Leeds College of Building: higher apprenticeships in construction and the built environment An apprenticeship programme to meet industry needs

Purpose - Leeds College of Building has a long-standing affinity with apprenticeships, offering a broad range of apprenticeships at Level 2 and Level 3. The purpose of this paper is to provide details of the development and potential impact of a Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship in Construction Management. Design/methodology/approach - Information presented in the paper is drawn from the organisation's own work in developing a higher apprenticeship (HA), building on its project plan as well as on-going evaluation of the programme as it develops. Findings - The College already supports a significant number of apprentices at Level 2 and level 3, therefore the development of a Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship in Construction and the Built Environment was a natural progression for the organisation. The key elements of the programme are detailed in the case study. With delivery planned to start in September 2012, plans have already been developed to extend the programme nationally. Originality/value - The paper is based on the author's own experience and employer consultation. It presents a case study of an apprenticeship programme specific to the author's organisation.