This sounds like an
interesting opportunity, and might be an option for someone reading this blog, or someone they know...
An
Environment Agency Foundation Degree...
£12,000 pa training allowance tax & NI free + tuition fees
Opportunities with the Environment Agency and local authorities throughout England
The role
The Flood Risk Engineering Foundation Degree combines professional training in the workplace, with studying at University. This means you'll build up practical skills while gaining a qualification - and get paid for it.
You’ll join the Environment Agency or a local authority, full time, on a two year training and development programme. You’ll rotate through a number of teams and gain exposure to a wide range of flood risk management activities.
During this time, you’ll also attend the University of the West of England in Bristol for six, one-week study blocks and you’ll complete a number of online e-learning assessments and a major project each year.
The team
The Environment Agency has an overview for all sources of flooding and carries out a range of activities to manage flood risk from main rivers and the coast.
Local authorities have a lead role for local flood risk management. This is the risk of flooding from surface water, groundwater and from ordinary watercourses. Maritime local authorities also lead on the management of coastal erosion.
We can't prevent flooding entirely, but we can reduce the risks of flooding. By working with our partners and people at risk of flooding, we can minimise its effects and reduce the damage it causes.
Experience/skills required
You'll need to have strong mathematical abilities - an A-level in mathematics or an equivalent qualification is essential. A well-developed sense of spatial awareness is also desirable as engineering requires an understanding of form and structure.
You'll need to be highly motivated and professionally minded. You'll be required to complete self study online modules. The online learning is delivered in a series of topics, which will usually include a combination of reading, practical exercises and other activities. You will also need to spend some of your own time doing additional study.
Additional useful information
To make sure you’re fully supported, you’ll be paired with a mentor who’ll be there for you throughout the two year course. You'll be expected to attend the office five days a week, although two of these days are designated study days.
You’ll receive a £12,000 annual training allowance, which is free from tax and National Insurance contributions. Your tuition fees, your textbooks, accommodation during your weeks at University and your travel expenses to and from University are paid for.
Closing date for applications: Sunday 24 July 2011
