EC Harris realises importance of APM apprenticeship scheme

EC Harris, the global built asset consultancy, is committing to the Higher Apprenticeship in Project Management developed by APM and Skills CFA by offering places to the next generation of project managers.

The firm has a well-established graduate development programme which has been in place for a number of years. However, in response to changes in the economic climate, including rising tuition fees, it says that it has recognised the importance of introducing new intake routes for young talent to complement the graduate scheme.

This year, EC Harris has been working with APM to support the introduction of the Higher Apprenticeship in Project Management into its business. Structured training will be provided by training provider QA and apprentices will work towards a Level 4 Diploma in Project Management, which forms part of the Higher Apprenticeship. They will also be supported with on-the-job learning as they develop their capabilities in the workplace.

Louise Mitchell, graduate recruitment and development advisor at EC Harris, says: “Opening up new entry routes enables us to select from a much wider talent pool. Opportunities are now open to talented individuals from a wider range of socio-economic groups, not just those who have been able to afford to attend university.”

EC Harris will be offering around eight to ten Higher Apprenticeship places across all business disciplines during September, however, if the scheme is successful an increasing number of places will be offered year on year. This news follows the recent announcement that British Airways will also be offering five Higher Apprenticeship places.

The introduction of the Higher Apprenticeship complements the professional development route accredited by APM for programme and project managers within EC Harris. The Project and Programme Management Service Line, which is aligned to the APM Competence Framework and APM Body of Knowledge 5th edition, raises the bar of professionalism within EC Harris with staff achieving the <a href="http://www.apm.org.uk/APM PMQ\” target=\”_self\”>APM PMQ qualification and APM Registered Project Professional (RPP) standard.

EC Harris works with clients to provide a mixture of technical, commercial and strategic consultancy on their built assets. These assets include buildings, transport infrastructure, oil rigs, refineries, power stations and water/power networks.

EC Harris works with public and private sector organisations including BAA, HSBC, Shell and Welsh Water, and this year has been appointed to a number of high-level projects including a five-year joint venture contract for Ashghal, Qatar’s public works authority, to deliver a major programme of social infrastructure building projects across the country.

If your organisation is interested in learning more about employing apprentices please contact APM. Alternatively, for more information about the scheme please visit the Higher Apprenticeship in Project Management webpage.

This article is part of a full feature on Higher Apprenticeship in Project Management that appeared in the August issue of Project.