Higher education success for Coleg Cambria student

A higher education student has praised Coleg Cambria and his employer in his recent HNC Distinction grade success.

Leigh, 22 from Wrexham, works at Electroimpact in Hawarden as a CNC Programmer/Machinist where he began as an Apprentice in January 2014.

Electroimpact are a world leader in the design and manufacture of tooling and automation systems for aircraft production and place a strong emphasis on skills training.

During his apprenticeship, Leigh undertook a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Mechanical Engineering before progressing to a HNC (Higher National Certificate) in Mechanical Engineering. Showing dedication to his work, he has also completed an NVQ Level 3 in Manufacturing, progressed to Level 4 and completed an evening course in CAD/CAM Manufacture which gave him competitive edge over his peers.

During his HNC, Leigh’s manager, Matt Booth, gave him time out from his day-to-day role to perfect his HNC work and he believes he achieved a Distinction grade overall because of the tremendous support he received.

Leigh said: “I studied for my HNC in Mechanical Engineering part time for 2 years, as part of my apprenticeship. Although a challenging course, it has proved to be well worth it and will allow me to progress in Electroimpact beyond what I thought wasn’t even attainable 2 years ago.

“It is well structured and I love the range of modules available. From Business Management studies to Advanced Mathematics, the course has given me a deep understanding, and experience, in the aerospace engineering industry.”

During this time, Leigh has also competed in WorldSkills UK in Birmingham and won the gold medal in CNC Milling, beating off competition from across the whole of the UK.

If you’re interested in studying a part time HNC like Leigh, or any of our Higher Apprenticeship or degree courses, places are still available for this September. Visit the Coleg Cambria website for more information.