This new wave of intakes will start on the mainland and on the Isle of Wight in May and June this year and each student will have a dedicated mentor, who will work to ensure they have the support and guidance they need to complete the course.

The new scheme will also be tied in with IBP's job brokerage to help companies that are looking to fill a vacancy but are not able to find anyone with the necessary skills.

Companies will be matched with a suitable applicant who has requested work within the marine engineering sector and will then be trained up to NVQ level 2 and possibly up to level 3.

Ian Smith of IBP Training & Employment, who has been managing the scheme, is delighted with the level of commitment that students have demonstrated: "The results from the initial pilot have been amazing, " he said, "with both candidates and employers showing incredible levels of commitment. These mature learners know what to expect from the workplace, and with the additional support at college, they have been well placed to succeed. Companies have been rewarded for their commitment with a better skilled and motivated workforce."

A pilot programme was run last year and success rates were impressive, with 86% of candidates achieving NVQ level2 in a variety of engineering disciplines; seven of these candidates went on to complete a NVQ level 3, with a success rate of 100%.

These success rates surpass similar national advanced and foundation programmes.

The impact of the mentor in achieving these results was significant. Their role often involved intervening with employers to maintain the right mix of on and off-the-job training. They were also vital in directing apprentices through the forgotten world of coursework and college classrooms.

Marine engineering companies interested in finding out more about the adult apprenticeship scheme should contact Karen Jackson at IBP Training & Employment on 023 8065 2562. This scheme is only available to companies based in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.