Delivered by Cogent Skills, the Science Industry Apprenticeship Consortium (SIAC) brings together 23 companies which have worked together to enrol 380 apprentices across 34 apprenticeship standards in recent years, from Level 2 to Level 7.
SIAC’s success lies in bringing together small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) which want to support learners in beginning rewarding careers in the science sector, helping them access high-quality training despite their size.
Members of SIAC include Huntsman, SABIC UK Petrochemicals, Fujifilm Biotechnologies, ConocoPhillips, Alpek Polyester, Centre for Process Innovation (CPI), Seqens, and Venator.
Hartlepool College of Further Education supports partners and businesses in its local area which are fostering the next generation of talent through a new initiative called the ‘100 Club’ – which recognises employers which have trained at least 100 apprentices.
Hartlepool College is a key provider partner of SIAC and recently added the group to its ‘100 Club’.
Cogent Skills’ Skills Account Manager, Geoff Cox, said:
“SIAC is a true success story for science-based employers and the north-east of England.
“Without SIAC talented apprentices at science-based SMEs across the region would struggle to access the high-quality training they need to progress their careers and make an important contribution to their employers.
“We think this kind of model can be replicated across other areas of the UK and we’re eager to work with local partners to make this happen.”
Chair of SIAC and HR Manager at Alpek Polyester UK, Jackie Petford, said:
“Being welcomed into Hartlepool College’s ‘100 Club’ is a meaningful milestone for SIAC. It reflects not only the dedication of our provider partners, but also the commitment of the member companies who share a common goal: developing the next generation of talent for the science sector.
“I’m pleased the group has been recognised for its impact across our industry and the region. The long-standing success and strength of the group has always come from collaboration and demonstrates what is possible when industry and education work together.
“We’re incredibly proud of all the apprentices who have come through the system, and we remain committed to expanding opportunities even further. This is a model that works – not just for employers, but for our region and its future.”
Vice Principal of Hartlepool College of Further Education, Gary Riches, said:
“We’re proud to support SIAC and the incredible collaboration it represents. By working together, employers and providers are creating real opportunities for apprentices to thrive in the science sector.
“Adding SIAC to our 100 Club is a testament to its commitment to developing talent and driving innovation across the region. Partnerships like this are vital in ensuring the next generation has the skills and confidence to succeed.”
