5 March 2025
Fife College welcomed a record intake of 350 first-year Modern Apprentices (MAs) at the beginning of this academic year, reinforcing its position as one of the country’s leading providers of Modern Apprentices.
Apprentices from Engineering, Construction, Automotive, Plumbing, Gas Engineering, and Life Sciences began their journey across the Rosyth, Dunfermline, and Glenrothes campuses in August.
This year’s record intake also included, for the second year running, a record number of Engineering Modern Apprentices. 160 aspiring engineers from across the region have started Engineering Modern Apprenticeships, up from 133 last year (2023/24).
As Scotland’s third-largest provider of Engineering Modern Apprenticeships, Fife College continues to work closely with employers to expand opportunities for local engineers to earn while they learn. A total of 438 places have been awarded by Skills Development Scotland for 2024/25, with 43 employers partnering with the College to meet industry demand.
Employer collaboration is central to the success of Fife College’s Modern Apprenticeship programme. By working with over 189 employers, the College ensures that apprentices receive high-quality, industry-relevant training that prepares them for the workplace. This approach not only strengthens career prospects for apprentices but also supports the regional and national economy by equipping businesses with the necessary skilled professionals.
With industries evolving rapidly, particularly in engineering, the demand for innovative solutions has never been greater. Fife College remains committed to developing the next generation of engineering talent, ensuring that apprentices gain the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to meet these challenges head-on.
The College’s commitment to apprenticeship development is further highlighted by its strong partnerships with key industry players. Babcock, a leading employer partner, will take on 400 apprentices over the next four years, with Fife College supporting 48 Babcock apprentices as part of the recent annual intake.
Paul Armstrong, Chief Executive Officer of Babcock – Marine, said:
“We’re delighted to work alongside Fife College and other partners as we welcome new apprentices to our advanced manufacturing and shipbuilding facility in Rosyth. [This latest cohort] will support the delivery of world-class programmes and underlines our commitment to investing in the skills required to support our customers both now and in the future.”
Fife College's commitment to excellence in apprenticeship training has been further highlighted recently by having two apprentices, Blair Munro and Skye McInally, nominated at this year's Scottish Apprenticeship Awards. Blair, an Engineering apprentice with Diageo, was shortlisted for the Modern Apprentice of the Year (SCQF Level 6+) category, while Skye, an Engineering apprentice at SSE plc, was a finalist for the Supporting Net Zero Apprentice of the Year category. Notably, Fife College was the only training provider with multiple nominees, underscoring the quality of its apprenticeship programmes and the dedication of its staff.
More information about apprenticeship opportunities in Fife can be found here.