Student story: Completing HNC while at school leads to apprenticeship

Studying an HNC at UHI Inverness during his final year of high school has fast-tracked 17-year-old Archie Webster’s promising engineering career, leading directly to his first role in the industry.

The Inverness Royal Academy pupil secured an apprenticeship as an Electrical Energy Engineer with a major power company at the end of his year-long Next Generation HNC Engineering course at UHI Inverness.

He said:

“By studying the Next Generation HNC in Engineering, I have secured an apprenticeship as an electrical maintenance engineer. For anyone considering a career in engineering, this course is an excellent choice. It provides insight into electrical, mechanical, project and quality engineering, and I would highly recommend it as a valuable step towards a career in the industry.”

The Schools Programme course at UHI Inverness gave Archie greater ownership and responsibility for his learning.

“I chose to study at UHI Inverness because I felt my options were limited in terms of the subjects I could study at school. After attending a UHI Inverness open evening and speaking to the team, I realised that studying an HNC in Engineering would suit me much better. I would like to become an electrical energy engineer, and the subjects available to me in sixth year would not have been particularly relevant. The HNC has allowed me to gain both theoretical and practical knowledge that will support me in the future.”

Archie particularly enjoyed the hands-on elements, including electrical projects and metalworking, and felt supported by lecturers.

“The lecturers at UHI Inverness have been brilliant throughout the course, always providing additional support and assistance if you are struggling with any concepts,” he said.