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Science businesses across Lancashire and Cumbria understand that people are their biggest asset. The Lancashire & Cumbria Institute of Technology (L&C IoT) knows this too, which is why we work with employers throughout the region to help them invest in their teams – delivering applied science training schemes that develop the skills your business needs, without taking employees out of the workplace.
Delivered in partnership with Blackpool & The Fylde College, our applied science programmes span analytical chemistry, biotechnology and environmental science, providing practical, work-focused qualifications that develop technical capability across a range of science disciplines and industries.
Many employers are cautious about investing in science training because they’re not convinced it will reflect the realities of their operation. Well, we agree – which is why our applied science programmes aren’t confined to textbooks and exams.
Our courses are designed specifically for people in working science environments, with learning and assessment focused on practical application rather than abstract theory.
Employees continue in their roles while studying, applying new knowledge directly to the equipment, processes and challenges they encounter every day. Where appropriate, coursework and projects can be aligned to workplace activity, ensuring the training supports current business needs as well as long-term capability.
For employers, this means applied science training that contributes value during delivery – not months or years down the line.
For employers whose staff are new to higher-level study, or who want a lower-commitment starting point, the Level 4 Certificate of Higher Education in Applied Science provides a strong and practical foundation.
This qualification introduces core scientific principles across biology, chemistry and physics, alongside data analysis, laboratory skills and scientific communication. It is equivalent to the first year of a Foundation Degree and provides a direct progression route into any of the Level 5 specialist programmes.
For employers, this is a practical entry point for staff who:
The Foundation Degree in Analytical Chemistry is designed for employers in chemical manufacturing, quality control, research and development, and any environment where understanding the composition and behaviour of materials is central to the work.
The programme develops practical skills in chemical analysis, instrumentation, data interpretation and laboratory technique. Employees gain a rigorous technical grounding in the methods used to identify, measure and evaluate chemical substances across a range of industrial and scientific contexts.
For employers, this training develops staff who can:
The Foundation Degree in Biotechnology is designed for employers in life sciences, pharmaceutical manufacturing, diagnostics, quality assurance and related biotech environments – sectors in which Lancashire and Cumbria are seeing sustained growth and significant demand for skilled technical staff.
The programme develops practical knowledge in bioscience, bioprocessing, laboratory diagnostics and the application of biotechnology in industrial and clinical settings. Employees build the technical skills needed to contribute confidently in fast-moving, regulated science environments.
For employers, this training develops staff who can:
The Foundation Degree in Environmental Science is designed for employers in environmental consultancy, conservation, land management, water quality, ecology and regulatory compliance – areas of growing importance across Lancashire and Cumbria given the region’s coastline, river systems and protected landscapes.
Co-designed with the Environment Agency, Natural England and local Rivers Trusts, the programme reflects current industry practice and the real demands facing environmental professionals. Employees develop skills in ecological surveying, environmental chemical assessment, conservation management and data analysis, with learning grounded in the landscapes and challenges of the North West.
For employers, this training develops staff who can:
Employers often assume that training takes too long to deliver value, and that the time and expense don’t justify the return. These applied science training schemes are structured so that learning can be applied throughout the programme – not just on completion.
All programmes use a flipped learning model, blending remote and recorded learning with on-site practical sessions. This means employees remain in their roles while studying part-time, bringing new techniques, understanding and scientific rigour back into the business as they progress. For many firms, this delivers faster results than recruitment – particularly where experienced science professionals are difficult to source locally.
Applied science training becomes part of day-to-day improvement, rather than a pause in productivity.
Partnering on applied science training does not require a large upfront commitment. Employers can:
L&C IoT supports employers through planning, engagement and progression, helping businesses build a sustainable approach to workforce development rather than a one-off training intervention.
Level 4 and Level 5 applied science qualifications provide immediate technical value while also supporting long-term skills planning. Employees can progress from the Certificate of Higher Education through to a Foundation Degree, and from there to a full BSc, creating a clear and structured development pathway within the business.
For employers, this supports:
L&C IoT works with employers to turn skills gaps into practical applied science training solutions. Rather than simply delivering courses, L&C IoT supports businesses to select the right training schemes, engage their employees and build long-term capability.
If your organisation is exploring applied science training schemes or training schemes for science-based businesses, L&C IoT can help you take the next step.