BAE Systems in Barrow and the University of Cumbria have joined forces to offer a new programme for its employees.

Workers from across the business are taking part in the MBA/senior leader master’s degree apprenticeship programme.

The 24-month course is being taught at the Submarine Academy in Barrow as well as the Ambleside campus of the university.

Mark Hughes, continuous improvement manager, is one of the employees taking part in the course.

He said: "I love it. It's brought me into contact with people from across the business who I can now look forward to collaborating with, not just on the course but in daily work too.

"We've been encouraged to explore contemporary business and management principles and learn how to apply them to genuine situations, using real-world case studies."

Dr David Murphy, senior lecturer in strategic management and collaboration, has invited contributors to speak to students including Carlisle City Council partnership manager Emma Dixon and BAE Systems' Barrow corporate social responsibility manager Neil Doherty.

Dr Murphy said: "Collaboration and an awareness of the environment in which businesses operate are vital areas to consider. There is so much to be gained by considering how even small changes by individual employees, their departments or even a whole business can bring widescale benefits. A company like BAE Systems which operates within a close-knit community like Barrow can have a real impact and the chance to discuss this offers up a whole new area to consider."

Debbie Wilson, BAE Systems learning and development advisor, said: "This course is an ideal opportunity for colleagues to step away from the day job and enjoy time to reflect on how they and their colleagues work.

"Gaining an insight into how businesses such as BAE Systems are perceived may well encourage them to think more about the way they and their teams work.

Programme leader Dr Steve Gibbs added: “So much of our work across the region is embedded in a deepening relationship with employers. We are ensuring that leadership learning is understood from a local context.”