A new degree apprenticeship course in Norwich aimed at improving managerial skills has seen an enthusiastic response from the business community.

A total of 28 apprentices from 12 organisations are starting City College Norwich's course in leadership and management this month.

The three-year programme, the first of its kind in Norfolk, is validated by the University of East Anglia and will see students gain CMI Chartered Manager status.

Modules covered include leading enterprise in organisations, digital marketing and communication, leading and managing people, and project management.

The employers signing their staff up for the degree apprenticeship range from large public sector organisations, to financial services companies, as well as small and medium-sized enterprises.

Ed Rose, head of higher education and employer responsive delivery at City College, said: 'It is really encouraging that so many employers have embraced this new apprenticeship as a great way to develop their managers and future leaders.'

As a result of the strong initial demand for the course, City College is planning to start a second cohort of leadership and management degree apprentices early in 2018.