Tag Archives: Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships, Awards, Midlands News, News

Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin Apprenticeship Awards

A brand new apprenticeship awards competition has been launched for Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin – the first of its kind in the county.

It will celebrate the brightest and best workers who are ‘earning while they are learning’ – as well as recognising employers driving ambition and education through their support of apprenticeships.

There will be an overall star apprentice crowned for the Shropshire Council area, and an overall champion for Telford & Wrekin. There are also awards for small, medium and large sized employers.

Individual apprentice of the year categories include Construction & Civil Engineering, Health & Social Care, Engineering & Manufacturing, IT & Digital Industries, Hospitality Leisure & Tourism, Creative & Media, and Business Legal & Finance.

The competition is backed by some of the county’s biggest and best names, led by headline sponsors Aico – the reigning Shropshire company of the year – and Telford College, the largest further education centre in the region.

Other sponsors include Dyke Yaxley, In-Comm, McPhillips, Northwood Hygiene Products, Pave Aways, Purple Frog Systems, SJ Roberts Construction, and University Centre Shrewsbury.

The competition is being organised by award-winning Shropshire events company Yarrington, which has years of experience running major awards in other parts of the UK, including apprenticeship awards in the Black Country.

They are working in partnership with Shropshire Business Live TV, which will be filming and streaming the awards for broadcast on multiple platforms.

The awards are free to enter, and nominations are now open. The closing date for entries is June 28th. For all the details – including some remaining sponsorship opportunities – log onto stwaa.co.uk

Shortlisted finalists will be notified in July, and the awards will be handed out at a glittering presentation night in front of the SBLTV cameras in October.

The competition was officially launched at Telford Skills Show, held at the town’s International Centre.

Mark Allsop, managing director of Yarrington, said: “It’s a celebration of the brightest and best apprentices in the county, and the businesses which go the extra mile to support the next generation of skilled staff.

Carl Jones, producer and presenter at SBLTV, added: “Being shortlisted for one of our awards brings many benefits to you or your business. It could boost your reputation, help you stand out from the competition – and also bring you new customers. What have you got to lose?”

To qualify for an individual award, apprentices must be on a current programme in the relevant sector, with a company which is based in either the Shropshire, or Telford & Wrekin local authority areas.

To qualify for a company award, businesses must have at least one operational base in either Shropshire or Telford & Wrekin, and employ current or past apprentices.

Apprenticeships, Careers, Emergency Services, News

Poll statistics steer National Apprenticeship Week towards a more inclusive fire sector

As the nation gears up to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, a recent poll conducted by The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) revealed that 57% of responders believe that there isn’t sufficient awareness of the diverse opportunities available across fire-related apprenticeships. Another survey uncovered that 45% of respondents expressed that the diverse job roles across the fire sector aren’t adequately represented in the current apprenticeship offering – highlighting a crucial need for increased visibility and understanding of the various paths available across the sector.

The IFE has announced its commitment to driving further vocational routes into the fire sector, recognising how the modern apprenticeship path is crucial in shaping the future of training within fire and other industries across the built environment. As the UK come together to celebrate the apprenticeship pathway, these results uncover the importance of developing apprenticeship programs that comprehensively showcase the breadth of careers available within the fire sector.

In a stride toward further pathways into the fire sector, candidates that successfully complete their end-point assessment for the Operational Firefighter course at the Fire Service College in Moreton-In-Marsh, can apply to achieve Technician grade membership at the IFE. This recognises the two years of rigorous practical and theory studies that map to the competencies required.

Commenting on the need for further avenues in fire, IFE CEO, Steve Hamm added: “The modern apprenticeship pathway not only ensures a more dynamic and inclusive workforce, but actively encourages individuals from different backgrounds and experiences to contribute to the fire sector.

“As a professional body, it’s paramount that we advocate for diversity and support candidates in their professional development. Our vision of a fire sector enriched by a wide range of experiences and socio-economic backgrounds continues to drive our activity.”

To further support those starting out in a career in fire, the IFE last year announced it had made its Student membership offering free. Both IFE exam candidates and those individuals in fire-related studies are now entitled to Student membership, providing access to learning and knowledge resources and an international network of contacts to support their career. Further information about Student membership is available on the IFE website https://www.ife.org.uk/Membership.

During National Apprenticeship Week, the IFE will raise awareness about diverse opportunities, constant learning and engage in conversations to address existing perceptions about apprenticeships.

News

ERS steers candidates toward an exciting career path through its Claims Apprenticeship Programme

ERS, the UK’s specialist motor insurer, is setting a new course in South Wales with the introduction of the ERS Claims Apprenticeship Programme as a vital element of its current hiring push to fill over 50 positions at its Swansea office.

The programme opens doors to diverse opportunities within the insurance sector, including areas like broking, underwriting, and claims operations, laying the foundations for versatile and fulfilling career options.

This groundbreaking initiative not only offers a roadmap to an exciting and potentially lucrative career journey but also provides access to apprenticeships that are traditionally scarce in the region, often only available in London.

In a region where such opportunities have been rare, ERS’s Claims Apprenticeship Programme enables candidates to earn while they learn, providing a competitive salary while working toward a recognised and highly sought-after qualification.

The ERS Apprenticeship Programme is focused on nurturing the next generation of insurance professionals. As part of the programme, individuals work as Claims Handlers, playing a vital role in providing support and guidance to customers during the claims process. The company has stated that this role is not just a job; it’s the beginning of a rewarding career journey.

ERS is looking for candidates from diverse backgrounds and age ranges. It is interested in speaking to recent school or university graduates, as well as those seeking a career change – particularly those with a passion for excellent customer service and an eagerness to develop a career in insurance. The apprenticeships are based at ERS’s Swansea Vale office and offer a hybrid work model, combining office collaboration and remote work.

The programme offers candidates a competitive salary while also gaining valuable real-world experience in the dynamic insurance industry. This means that, unlike many traditional learning pathways, the apprenticeships allow participants to start their career journey with a solid financial footing.

In addition to the financial benefits, the programme fast-tracks apprentices on the path to a recognised qualification. It provides a structured and comprehensive approach to professional development, ensuring that apprentices are well-prepared to meet the industry’s demands and challenges.

Kian Hearn, Claims Apprentice at ERS, said:

“As a young person, I didn’t think apprenticeships were available in insurance and finance, and university didn’t seem like the right fit for me. But here I can earn good money, learn on the job and get a qualification at the same time, all while working in a friendly, welcoming environment.”

 

Martin Hall, Active Underwriter at ERS, said:

“At ERS, we understand the importance of creating meaningful career opportunities in South Wales. Our Claims Apprenticeship Programme is designed to empower individuals with the skills, knowledge, and qualifications they need to thrive in the insurance industry. It’s a unique opportunity for anyone seeking a career in insurance, whether they are starting out or making a career change.”

 

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply via the dedicated careers page on the ERS website.

Apprenticeships, Construction, Construction News, News

Conservatory Outlet marks training milestone with £130,000 investment in apprentices

One of the UK’s leading manufacturers of home improvement products has celebrated more than 15 years of backing apprenticeships by offering employment to six young people.

Conservatory Outlet, which employs more than 120 staff at its Thomas Wharf Lane factory, invested more than £130,000 into nurturing future talent over the last twelve months by continuing to offer access to vocational learning opportunities and ongoing professional development.

This has resulted in Kyle Green being offered a full-time role in IT Support and Natalie Bossons, who joined in 2019, now working as an Order Processor and developing her knowledge further by undertaking her Team Leader Level 3 qualification.

Eliza Auty, Kennedy Goodwin, and Georgie Tolley have all taken Order Processing positions, whilst Missy Mortimer has just completed her apprenticeship in December and will continue to help drive the firm’s strategic marketing strategy in 2023.

Karen Starkey, Head of HR at Conservatory Outlet, commented: “We are one of Wakefield’s largest employers and believe it is critical to continue to offer new opportunities to local people.

“As we continue to grow, we have to look at ways of developing our staff and we have found apprenticeships are the best way of doing this, with the latest tranche of young people qualifying and taking on full-time roles.”

She continued: “The sizeable investment allows us to develop the individual in the ‘CO’ culture and we have a long and proven track record of offering progression routes that lead into senior positions.

“Our approach will continue in 2023. Two new apprentices have just started with us, with Ben Bradbury and Sam Allan studying towards their Business Admin Level 3 and AAT course respectively.”

Apprenticeships are one element of a strategic training programme operated by Conservatory Outlet.

In addition to vocational learning, the Wakefield-based firm also offers ongoing pathways for staff keen to progress and develop new skills.

This ranges from putting Joshua Child through his AAT and Karla Watson working towards her CIPD Level 3 (both at Wakefield College) to Ben Strutt (Business and Professional Administration Level 4), Jo Davies (Maintenance and Operations Engineering Technical Level 3) and Nikki Lewis undertaking her Marketing Manager Level 6 Apprenticeship.

Karen went on to add: “As a business, we are always trying to push the boundaries of what we can achieve, and we can only manage this by investing in our people and futureproofing their skills.

“This was reflected in 2022 when we invested a further £100,000 into creating a new sales training academy, a move that was in response to a shortage of new talent coming into the industry.”

She concluded: “We have extended this offer to all our retailers, and this is steadily developing new individuals that will hit the ground running when they join our sector.”

Conservatory Outlet is one of Yorkshire’s fastest growing manufacturers, supplying a range of conservatories, doors, extensions, orangeries and windows, with the latest advancements in UPVC, composite and aluminium technology regularly added to its ranges.

The firm continues to support the Conservatory Outlet Network, which comprises 29 leading regional retailers, and this has helped increase turnover by 20% since 2020.

News

Sophie’s electric as PP C&A engineer wins major Engineering & Manufacturing Apprenticeship Award

A female electrical engineer, who has already delivered a £1m plus new product introduction, has been named as the Black Country’s best Engineering & Manufacturing apprentice last night.

PP Control & Automation’s Sophie Young, beat off competition from across the area to secure the Ladder for the Black Country accolade in front of 285 guests at Wolverhampton Grand Station and has already set her sights on inspiring more girls into industry.

The 19-year-old has always shown a keen interest in STEM subjects from a young age and joined the strategic manufacturing outsourcing specialist 12 months ago on an Apprenticeship pathway that will see her attain qualifications from a HNC through to a degree.

She impressed judges with her rate of progression and how she is already completing projects that are delivering financial and operational performance to the Cheslyn Hay-based business, not to mention her willingness to act as an ambassador for women in engineering.

“It has been a great first twelve months in industry and this award has really topped it off nicely,” explained Sophie, who was also highly commended in the Overall Apprentice of the Year category.

“There were so many fantastic finalists on display that I was quite surprised to hear my name being announced. I’ll definitely use the recognition to continue with my studies and to also shout about how great a career in manufacturing can be.”

Within the first five months of her apprenticeship, Sophie was given the opportunity to take a project through from quotation level to completion.

This included supporting the New Product Introduction (NPI) process and working with the NPI team to eliminate faults and develop a product ready for production, carrying out inspection reports on first builds and bridging the product into its own dedicated production cell.

Supported throughout her learning by a Senior Electrical Engineer at PP C&A, she also created a full 3D assembly drawing pack, electrical schematics, and worked closely with all departments of the business to meet stringent deadlines.

She even volunteered to build the first iteration of the assembly to prove out her documentation, cutting out 1-hour of build time by identifying a more efficient method.

The assembly now takes 2.5hrs to produce, which has allowed 100 units to be manufactured in 2022, with 400 units scheduled for build in 2023, shipping both nationally and internationally.

Andy Whittaker, Engineering & Quality Director at PP Control & Automation, added his support: “Sophie has been a shining light since she joined and has developed so quickly, impressing everyone in the business with her passion, hard work, skill and eye for engineering.

“The Award is richly deserved and shows what you can achieve in a relatively short timeframe. I’m sure this is just the start of what will be an amazing career for one of our brightest young stars.

“Competitions like this highlight how important it is for companies to invest in young people and give them the opportunity to learn and grow in your business. It’s the only way we’re going to solve the very real skills shortage.”

The Ladder for the Black Country Apprenticeship Awards was organised by the Express & Star and headline sponsor City of Wolverhampton Council.

Sponsoring the Engineering & Manufacturing Award was voestalpine Metsec plc.

Apprenticeships, Awards, Midlands News, News

Apprenticeship stars recognised at eleventh In-Comm Training Awards

An advanced engineering & manufacturing apprentice from Telford was named as the region’s brightest vocational star last week.

Torus Measurement Systems’ James Morgan overcame competition from more than 100 apprentices across the West Midlands to secure the ‘Outstanding Learner of the Year’ title at this year’s annual In-Comm Training Awards.

More than 300 people packed into The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham to hear how the 24-year-old is working his way towards a degree by impressing on the shopfloor, helping deliver critical projects and, importantly, becoming a STEM ambassador that sees him go into schools to inspire the next generation.

The high-profile ceremony, which is backed by main sponsor the Engineering Technology Group (ETG), saw ‘girl power’ come to the fore again, with four out of the eight personal accolades won by females, illustrating how apprenticeships are increasingly for everyone.

Britney Biju (Collins Aerospace) won Engineering & Manufacturing Foundation – Telford, Jean Catchpowle (Gestamp) secured Quality & Continuous Improvement, whilst Emily Lander (M&A Doocey) and Tracy Reynolds (William King) were successful in the Business Support and Ambassador categories.

Companies were also recognised on the evening, with Billcar Precision Engineering winning the small employer award for the way it uses staff to develop young learners and Hoshizaki Europe taking the large employer accolade.

The latter has been a long-term supporter of vocational learning and has invested heavily in an apprentice scheme that spans all departments, including engineering, quality, manufacturing and business administration.

It also runs a scheme where apprentices are rewarded for their ideas on how to improve their role or the business.

Bekki Phillips, Chief Operating Officer at In-Comm Training, commented: “We are finally seeing the perceptions of apprenticeships change since Covid-19 and events like these are crucial to achieving that level of equality.

“Vocational learning shouldn’t be seen as the pathway you take if you don’t get good grades, that’s nonsense. We now have clear pathways in place where a learner can go all the way to a degree in less time than going to university, with the added benefits of hundreds of hours of real-life experience and zero debt.”

She went on to add: “Our finalists have demonstrated hard work, commitment, teamwork, innovation and, importantly, technical competences. They are already making a real difference to the companies they work for, and this is just the start.”

This was the eleventh year the In-Comm Training Awards have been held and gave nearly 50 finalists the opportunity to celebrate their achievements in front of their peers, mentors and employers.

Other winners included:

  • Christian Newey (IMI Norgren) – Engineering & Manufacturing Advanced at Aldridge
  • George Moore (Precision Technologies) – Engineering & Manufacturing Foundation at Aldridge
  • James Morgan (Torus Measurement Systems) – Engineering & Manufacturing Advanced at Telford
  • Oliver Eskriett (Brandauer) – Management & Leadership
  • Lewis Laidler (Hoshizaki Europe) – Most Improved Learner

The evening was also used to celebrate the life of Her Majesty the Queen, with guests marking the unrivalled service and dedication of Her Royal Highness.

Gareth Jones, Managing Director In-Comm Training, concluded: “The Awards have grown massively from when they first started and we want to them to continue to get bigger, as it’s a fantastic way of spreading the message about vocational learning and everything it has to offer.

“The apprentices rightly get the majority of the plaudits, but we shouldn’t forget the huge contribution and impact employers have on shaping the professionals and engineers of the future.”

The In-Comm Training Awards were made possible by headline sponsor the Engineering Technology Group (ETG) and other sponsors, including Aptem, Black Country Chamber of Commerce, Collins Aerospace, Crowe LLP, EAL Awards, FBC Manby Bowdler, In-Comm TMG, MyWorkwear and the West Midlands Apprentice Ambassador Network.

Apprenticeships, Midlands News, News

200 apprenticeships up for grabs as In-Comm Training opens hotline for A-level and GCSE students

Apprenticeships will play an increasing role in an integrated solution for solving the shrinking labour pool impacting employers across the UK, predicts the boss of a leading West Midlands training provider.

In-Comm Training, which operates three Technical Academies in Aldridge, Telford and Shrewsbury, has seen a massive surge in the number of companies investing in vocational learning and currently has 201 vacancies available – the most at any time in its 40-year history.

This means there are lots of ready-made career opportunities for students receiving their A-level and GCSE grades, but unfortunately the news is getting lost or a lack of informed career advice is resulting in young people taking the ‘perceived easier option’ and opting for a course that later blocks them from obtaining their desired apprenticeship.

In order to help reverse this trend, the company has launched a dedicated hotline (01922 457686, option 3) to guide young pupils/students and their families through the different choices and how vocational learning can now lead all the way to a degree without the £100,000 debt associated with going to university.

“I don’t think we’ve ever seen such an appetite to invest in apprenticeships in the West Midlands, with nearly 80 different companies, across 20 sectors, currently working with us to find their workforce of the future,” explained Gareth Jones, Managing Director of In-Comm Training.

“This is great news on one hand, as it means we have over 200 immediate vacancies across 20 different apprentice pathways, including in Product Design, Mechatronics, Electrotechnical, Toolmaking, Machining, Quality, Production, Engineering Technician, Health, Safety & Environmental, Business Admin and Logistics.

“Thanks to our unrivalled employer-led network, we have already filled 300+ positions, yet industry is desperate for more talent in order to grow sustainably.”

He continued: “Worryingly, we have started to see the pipeline of candidates dry up and we’re putting this down to young people looking to take the simple route after Covid-19 and a lack of informed career advice on the different options out there.

“What this means is that students are choosing to take up full-time classroom-based technical qualifications that can later block them from obtaining their desired apprenticeship due to complex funding rules, leaving them with some knowledge but no real experience or competency.

“In reality, hundreds of pupils/students are missing out on the chance to get world class technical training and hands-on work experience that guarantees jobs and rewarding careers. Our helpline will hopefully help give people the complete picture.”

Established in 1982, In-Comm Training is one of the UK’s leading training providers, supporting more than 250 companies and training thousands of individuals every year.

The business will staff its dedicated helpline with four experts during working hours, with enquiries out of this time being responded to via email or social media.

It is also continuing to build links on the ground with primary/secondary schools and agencies, organising STEM days and holding special Open Days at its Technical Academies.

There will be a big end to the year for the family-run firm, with its eleventh annual awards taking place in September, the official launch of Telford Technical Academy pending and the big unveil on a unique industry collaboration.

Gareth concluded: “Getting your results is a very exciting, but also a nervous time for young people and families.

“We want to try to take away some of their concerns and the confusion that exists around different career paths, providing unbiased advice and providing exposure to the opportunities available within engineering and manufacturing. This will help people make educated career choices.

“Gaining your A-levels is a great starting position for starting a higher-level apprenticeship and, with 201 places currently available, there’s no better time to consider vocational learning.”

Apprenticeships, News

TES launches its largest ever apprenticeship push

One of the UK’s leading business management software specialists has pushed the button on a major recruitment drive to help bridge technology’s growing skills gap.

Total Enterprise Solutions (TES), which supports charities and Not for Profits (NFPs) on their digital transformation journeys, is looking to attract five apprentices to join its growing workforce at its Rugeley Headquarters.

The company has positions available across the business, including project management, consultancy, managed services and sales, and plans to use its established Digital and Technology Solutions Apprenticeship it offers in partnership with Staffordshire University.

“Our sector is experiencing challenges sourcing high quality employees at the pace we need them so, in order to meet our growth aspirations for the next three years, we need a different solution, and this is where ‘growing our own’ comes firmly into play,” explained Charlotte Twigg, HR Manager at TES.

“Apprenticeships are a great way for us to bring people in that are passionate about digital transformation and the charity sector and equip them with the skills they need to be successful in our industry. It also allows us to shape our future team to fit our culture and our values.”

She went on to add: “We want to encourage candidates from all backgrounds, and we would love to speak to those who may not necessarily have had the opportunity to go on to higher education due to financial constraints. Our degree apprenticeships are fully funded and, furthermore, candidates get paid whilst they learn!

“In the past we have had great success with onboarding and developing apprentices. Some of the senior members of our team started life at TES as an apprentice 10 years ago and have progressed to being integral to the business, serving some of our largest customers.”

Total Enterprise Solutions (TES) has a strong focus on working with charities, leveraging the power and capabilities of Microsoft Dynamics 365 to tailor solutions that help organisations with cyber security, fundraising management, Membership Management, SORP/SOFA compliance, Charity VAT and volunteer management.

By continuing to work with the sector, it has developed several new solutions and, in the past twelve months, launched a suite of add on apps that expand the power of the Microsoft Cloud for Not for Profits.

The firm’s apprentices generally start life working in managed services on the support desk, as this gives them a great overview of the products and TES’ customers.

Experienced team members are also encouraged to mentor younger staff, helping them to learn softer skills and improve their communication.

Charlotte went on to add: “In addition to the apprenticeship drive, we have also invested in a new learning programme – TES Certified.

“This has been designed to encourage individuals to want to stay and build their careers with us, by giving them access to learning pathways with transparent pay structures, opportunities for promotion and the chance to make a positive difference to charities and the third sector.”

Tyler Williams completed his degree apprenticeship with TES last year and is now a developer working on some of the company’s biggest projects.

He added his support for the apprenticeship programme: “It really is the best…you’re getting free education and hands-on work experience, whilst at the same time earning money. There’s also the bonus of securing a degree without having to endure the huge debt that is associated with going to university.

“TES is a great place to work, and all the other members of staff are on hand to help support your development and to help you with any issues you might face. The apprenticeship has definitely accelerated my career in the technology sector.”

Apprenticeships, Midlands News, News, Training, Training & Apprenticeships, Training News

In-Comm Training lands major apprenticeship contract with automotive supplier

A leading independent training provider is celebrating winning its largest apprenticeship contract in years after signing a major deal with Lander Tubular Products.

In-Comm Training, which operates three state-of-the-art technical academies across the Black Country and Shropshire, has become the strategic training partner for the supplier of precision engineered metallic and plastic manipulated pipe assemblies for the automotive, commercial vehicle and off-highway sectors.

Forty Level 2 apprentices in Lean Manufacturing Operations will be recruited over the next six months in a bid to develop a future talent pool that can help the manufacturer meet a rapidly growing order book.

The new relationship will cover all recruitment and selection, advice on tapping into funding, induction process and delivery of training, with In-Comm trainers and assessors set to be permanently based at Lander Tubular Products’ internal academy at its Woodgate Business Park factory in Birmingham.

“This is a major milestone for our business, and we’re delighted that another high-profile industrial specialist has chosen to adopt our employer-led approach to apprenticeships and training in general,” explained Paul Hodgetts, Business Development Manager at In-Comm Training.

“The tender process was over a three-month period, involved six providers and numerous visits to each other’s locations. We were able to listen, understand exactly what the firm needed and then put together a flexible learning package that obviously appealed to the management team here.”

He continued: “Everything kicks off in September with a cohort of 15, then this is followed a month later with 10 more apprentices and the final 15 need to be in place by December. So, the message for young people and mature learners looking for a career change is simple – there’s the potential for high quality jobs with a world class automotive supplier, get in touch!”
With over 140 year’s history, Lander Tubular Products is a leading manufacturer of precision engineered metallic and plastic manipulated tubular products for the automotive, off-highway, and industrial sectors.

The company, which has three manufacturing sites in the UK and a further two production facilities in the USA, has a long history of delivering award-winning apprenticeship programmes.

Its product range covers multiple applications for the transfer of fluids or air, and tubular structural products for a broad range of major OEM and tier one customers.

Growing its own staff has always been a priority and this new contract marks the next phase of its workforce development, with pathways being created so that individuals can work all the way towards Technical Apprenticeships, a Degree in Engineering and Manufacturing and upskilling opportunities in continuous improvement, quality and leadership & management.

Anita Davenport-Brooks, Group HR Manager, added her support: “We’ve known about In-Comm for some time and were really impressed with the way they took the time to listen and tailor the approach to suit exactly what we need.

“The course will give every apprentice core manufacturing skills, as well as developing softer ones and encouraging the right behaviours to fit our culture. All the training will be completed at our factory, which will give us great flexibility when balancing shopfloor demand.

“I’m also keen to look at how we can work together to shape new Apprenticeship qualifications that are currently missing in industry. One example, is early discussions about creating a Level 3 Technical Operator course that could be the next step for our apprentices.”

She concluded: “Vocational learning is so important for us and, next year, the plan is to recruit up to 100 apprentices. Working with In-Comm Training will save over £200,000 on recruitment costs alone in 2022 and that does not take into account the bottom line benefits our learners will deliver to our three businesses across the Midlands.

“Several of our senior team and middle managers all started with an apprenticeship and are now critical to our future success.”

Lander Tubular Products, which was recently named as the number one company in the Top 50 SME Apprentice Employers Rankings by the National Apprenticeship Service, will also tap into other services offered by In-Comm Training.

This includes upskilling courses, health and safety consultancy and lobbying, with Anita already taking her place on the training provider’s new Skills Steering Group.

Apprenticeships, Construction, Construction News, News, South West

New apprenticeships launched by RGB Building Supplies

RGB Building Supplies has launched a new apprenticeship programme helping to bring young people into the builders merchant industry.

Two new branch operative apprentices will be based at RGB depots in Barnstaple and Porthleven and will learn all aspects of the industry, including managing stock, raising quotes, assisting customers, processing orders, liaising with suppliers and completing paperwork. They will gain a broad knowledge of industry-leading products and develop their communication, customer and teamwork skills.

At the end of the 12-month apprenticeships, the apprentices will receive a Level 2 Trade Supplier qualification with any additional maths or English exams taken during the period.

Helen Mahoney, HR Manager at RGB Building Supplies, commented:

“There is a generational skills gap in the builders merchant industry, so it’s vital that we do something to help change that. It’s not an industry that many young people consider when thinking about a future career, but there is a wide variety of roles and positions available, and it is a sector that is constantly seeing innovative products being launched.

“An apprenticeship gives young people the perfect balance between training, working and earning by allowing them to gain experience and a qualification at the same time.

“Our apprentices do not need any experience, as they will be given full external and internal training throughout the 12 months. They just need to be enthusiastic, well-presented, friendly and have an interest in delivering exceptional customer service.”

Further information about the RGB branch operative apprenticeships can be found on the careers page of RGB’s website – rgbltd.co.uk/careers. Those interested in joining RGB as an apprentice can apply by sending their CV and covering letter to HR@rgbltd.co.uk.