Apprenticeship course to launch this summer

City and Islington College has confirmed it will launch a part-time course for apprentices training as optical advisers this summer.

Trevor Hunter, deputy director for higher apprenticeships at the college, said an initial intake was expected to attract 20 apprentices, although there was no set limit on places.

The one-year course will prepare apprentices in combination with practice experience. In line with a government funding scheme, 16-19 year-olds could complete the course at no charge, Hunter said, while small to medium enterprises could receive a £1,500 grant for taking on up to 10 apprentices. 'Depending on what qualifications they have it may lead towards DO progression,' he said.