A FORMER Wem school student is celebrating after taking an alternative route to university.

Jake Critchley, from Prees, has enrolled at Harpers Adams University to study for a degree in agricultural engineering.

Jake completed his three-year apprenticeship with SBC Training while employed at Aluroll in Oswestry where he has developed as a skilled engineering technician.

However, his ambition to achieve a degree took a step closer when he successfully applied for a place at Harper Adams.

During his apprenticeship Jake gained a diploma in engineering technology and an NVQ level 3 Extended Diploma in mechanical engineering.

Barry Mahon, production manager at Aluroll, said: “Jake is a quick learner and soon became an asset to the Aluroll team.

"He is the perfect example of how beneficial apprenticeships are to employers like Aluroll. We already miss having him in the office and wish him all the best with his university studies."

Jake added: “I could not thank SBC Training enough for getting me to where I am now. My apprenticeship was fantastic and I would recommend the apprenticeship route to anyone.” Jake is setting his sights high and has ambitions to progress to a Masters degree when he has completed the current course. For more information about SBC, contact Clair Schafer on 01743 454810 or at Clair.schafer@sbc-training.co.uk