One of the world’s leading industrial technology companies is working with the University of Cumbria to train project managers of the future.

The university has signed an agreement to provide level six project manager degree apprenticeships for Rolls-Royce.

The degree apprenticeship was developed by a national trailblazer group, involving organisations, other major employers, plus training providers from industry.

Apprentices from Rolls-Royce are among the first in the country to begin the programme, with training for the first cohort already under way.

The news marks the latest in a series of ties with private, public and third sector businesses and employers created by the University of Cumbria.

Project management has been strongly supported by the university through the development of the Project Academy for Sellafield.

The academy sees the university work closely with Sellafield Ltd and its supply chain.

Prof Julie Mennell, University of Cumbria Vice Chancellor, said: “The university has a growing national reputation for providing top quality training in project management.”

“The opportunity for us to work with such a high profile and world renowned company is further evidence of this.

“Our ability to provide bespoke training for industries is vital to the Cumbrian economy and through partnerships of kind we can bring real benefits to the region.

“We encourage Cumbria’s employers to come and talk to us.”