The Supply Chain Academy (SCA) was invited to present alongside Aston University, Cranfield University and the University of Huddersfield at a recent NOVUS sponsors meeting.

NOVUS is a higher education initiative that aims to address the skills gaps and shortfall of graduate talent that is becoming increasingly evident in the supply chain and logistics industry today.

Today’s supply chain industry is one of the world’s most sophisticated, vibrant and important industries, underpinned by the very latest technology. To keep up with the gathering pace of change in the industry – the skills, capabilities and knowledge of supply chain leaders will have to be high. Currently, the demand for the high-calibre staff to fill these challenging roles is also projected to outstrip the supply of suitable candidates.

NOVUS aims to attract college leavers into the supply chain and logistics sector by providing:

• A guaranteed graduate-level supply chain and logistics job with one of the sponsoring companies when they graduate
• A degree course at Aston University or the University of Huddersfield, designed in partnership with leading businesses
• Well-paid vacation and third-year placements
• Industry-led seminars and site visits
• A company mentor throughout the course
• Additional professional qualifications

NOVUS acts as a supply chain and logistics forum for company sponsors and the Supply Chain Academy was asked to present on the latest developments surrounding the development of the new Degree Apprenticeship in supply chain leadership.

SCA’s parent company, the Uniserve Group (the UK’s leading independent logistics and trade management provider) worked in partnership with 150 employers, universities and professional bodies to create the standard and end-point assessment for this ‘business led’ degree apprenticeship.

This unique qualification enables new apprentices or existing employees to achieve a full bachelor’s or master’s degree on completion, though still employed throughout.

Due to be available from early 2018, the qualification will cover areas including supply chain management, purchasing, procurement and risk management.

Uniserve are one of the founders and sponsors of the NOVUS scheme.

For more information on NOVUS, visit www.novus.uk.com

Apprenticeships:

From 6 April 2017, the way the UK government funds apprenticeships in England has changed. Employers operating in the UK that have an annual pay bill over £3 million each year are required to contribute to a new ‘apprenticeship levy’. They can claim the levy back, but only if they invest in apprenticeships. 

For more information on the NOVUS scheme, the degree apprenticeship or general apprenticeship advice, please contact Alex Mortimer or Paul Stone at info@supplychainacademy.org.uk or call 01708 259 450.