Wiltshire College & University Centre has welcomed Babcock International to its Chippenham campus as the engineering and defence giant confirmed plans to expand its support for local learners.
During last month’s visit, Babcock committed to offering dedicated T-Level industry placements and hands-on learning opportunities for Engineering students, providing the real-world experience required as part of the qualification.
The announcement supports the College’s BIG Placement Pledge, is a campaign which encourages employers across Wiltshire to offer meaningful placements to T-Level learners.
Representatives from Babcock met curriculum teams and held discussions led by Dean Green, the company’s Apprenticeships Business Development Manager. As well as confirming placement opportunities, Babcock will host a tour for Level 2 Motor Vehicle students, giving them an insight into engineering operations and potential career pathways.
Placement Officer Joanna Partner said: “We’re thrilled to be working with Babcock to give our Engineering students direct experience of the sector. Their support for placements, tours and apprenticeships is exactly what we’re aiming to achieve through The BIG Placement Pledge.”
The visit also highlighted the success of former student Jack Parfitt-Keates, from Westbury. The 22-year-old completed his Level 3 Electrical Engineering course in 2022 before securing an apprenticeship with Babcock. Now in his second year, he works on defence engineering projects includng armoured vehicles and heavy equipment.
Jack told current learners how industry experience helped shape his own route into engineering:
“I came to Babcock with no mechanical background at all, but my apprenticeship has opened doors I never imagined… My time at Wiltshire College gave me the foundation I needed.”
Babcock, which delivers engineering and technical services across national defence, from aviation to submarines and armoured vehicles, is one of the UK’s largest employers of technicians and apprentices. Its increased engagement with the College reinforces the role of industry partnerships in training the next generation of engineers.
Wiltshire College & University Centre continues to encourage more employers to join The BIG Placement Pledge and expand high-quality opportunities for T Level students.
Picture: A Babcock representative speaking to Engineering students during a visit to Wiltshire College & University Centre.
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