Apprenticeships, Bristol Post 2015

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Apprenticeships 2015

In association with

TRAINING GUIDE

FAST TRACK TO SUCCESS Your essential guide to the best apprenticeship schemes in Bristol and beyond to get your career in top gear EPB-E01-S5

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

APPRENTICES GETTING A HEAD START IN CAREERS Oh}pu \ovtwzvu

Assistant Editor (Business) gavin.thompson@b-nm.co.uk

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RADUATION ceremonies are nothing unusual in the Wills Memorial Hall. The home of Bristol University has seen its fair share of caps and gowns over the years. But when 125 students from the across the region gathered recently, there was something different. These weren’t graduands, but apprentices. The group were some of the top achievers who have recently completed higher apprenticeships from the region. The event was symbolic, and you might dismiss it as window dressing. But it illustrates a shift in attitudes and education that has been gathering pace of late. Apprenticeships had been seen by some as a second class education. The brightest went to university and those who didn’t make it, well perhaps a trade would be a good idea. It harks back to days when tests at age 11 would divide those deemed academically gifted and send the rest to do something more practical. Thankfully, times have changed. Figures from the Institute for Employment Studies show that of the 434,600 apprentice starts in England last year, the biggest sector was Business, Administration and Law (126,000), followed by Health, Public Services and Care (108,000). Retail and commercial enterprise accounts for 87,000 starts. Traditional sectors remain reasonably large with around 65,000 training in Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies, although just 16,000 were in Construction, Planning and the Built

Environment. Those figures show that apprenticeships are becoming a proven way into a range of industries. The ages of apprentices may surprise some too. Becci Newton, principal research fellow at the Institute for Employment Studies said: “While 36 per cent of apprentices are aged between 19-24 years, the same proportion is over 25. The rest (28 per cent) are aged 16-18. “While the policy focus tends to be on young people’s training, adult training is just as important.� On gender, Becci added: “ Broadly there is a gender balance but this masks gender stereotypical uptake of particular subjects, following patterns in the workforce, so women are under-represented in science technology and manufacturing sectors and men under-represented in childcare and hairdressing.� There were 3,020 apprentice starters in Bristol last year. A further 700 in North Somerset and 990 in Bath and North-East Somerset. For some, apprenticeships still represent a second chance. Callum Marsh found his role as a finance apprentice at BrunelCare in Bristol with Kaplan Financial through a portal called GetMyFirstJob . “I didn’t have the best grades for uni so an apprenticeship was the best way to work from the bottom and pursue my career goals,� said the 20-year-old. “I have been asked by my line manager to apply for a purchase ledger position within the company whilst still completing my apprenticeship training. “I am really pleased my hard work has paid off and they want me to progress within the company.� But increasingly apprenticeship are a first choice and a good way to get

“ I am so happy and

grateful I found an apprenticeship in the career I want to pursue.�

Molly Dowling, an apprentice at public relations company Purplefish

“ One of the major benefits has been the opportunity for creative, hands-on learning and I’ve enjoyed working for a company with such high standards. There are lots of opportunities to move up the ladder.� Masie Lapham

a head start in a career without the debts associated with university. At just 17, Molly Dowling is already making her way in the creative industries as a key part of the team at Bristol public relations company Purplefish. Bright and driven, Molly knew she wanted to work in marketing and social media so did her own research, eventually finding an apprenticeship through training provider 3AAA. She had to overcome her own doubts first, however. “I was worried about whether not doing A-levels would affect my ca-

reer,� she said. “I asked about it at interview and told them to be honest with me.� Convinced, she took the apprenticeship and hasn’t looked back. “I am so happy and grateful I found an apprenticeship in the career I want to pursue,� she said. Lynette Daly, publisher of Moving On magazine which highlights apprenticeship successes, said: “The introduction of degree apprenticeships and availability of advanced and higher apprenticeships, particularly in technical roles, goes to show that choosing an apprenticeship over a

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

â—? Advanced and Higher Apprenticeship graduate Alex Fields celebrates at the Great Hall, Wills Memorial Building

full time college or university course is anything but a waste of talent. “Gone are the days when people saw apprenticeships as the route for under-achieving males. In fact, in 2013, 55 per cent of all apprenticeship starts were female.� For employers, the appeal of apprenticeships is that they can train people in the skills they need. Some, such as pub operator Mitchells & Butlers, which runs Harvester, Browns and other brands, have find apprenticeships improve staff retention. The firm has an 80 per cent re-

tention rate for apprentices, compared with a normal industry turnover of 50 per cent. Others see the route as a way to address skills shortages in their sector. House builder Crest Nicholson does just that, and apprentices now make up 10 per cent of its workforce. One of them is Masie Lapham, based at Port Maine in Portishead, where the 20-year-old works as a decorator. Masie said: “I’ve been part of the programme for coming up to three years now, and it’s been a fantastic

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â—? Masie Lapham, a decorator at Port Maine in Portishead

learning experience. “One of the major benefits has been the opportunity for creative, hands-on learning and I’ve really enjoyed working for a company with such high standards and quality of work. “There are lots of opportunities to move up the ladder, with all the help and training to support us.� The key for apprentices such as Masie, Molly and Callum is their prospects as they further

their careers. But what these trailblazers also carry is a responsibility for those who follow. By simply being thoughtful, hard working, creative employees and by climbing the career ladder, they will slowly change out-dated perceptions about apprenticeships. They are going to go far with their apprenticeships, and thousands will follow.

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

’College apprenticeship has given me a step up to help me in my career’

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OR Nadia Chowdhury, an apprenticeship was always going to be the best route into a career. The 28-year-old, who has undertaken a business administration apprenticeship with Bristol City Council since March 2014, has already secured full-time employment after a year of working hard through her apprenticeship with City of Bristol College. Nadia now has a permanent job at Bristol City Council working in the finance team, after she spent a year working as an apprentice in a different department. Nadia said: “I studied at college before undertaking my apprenticeship, and did a three-month placement at the college. “I then started my apprenticeship at Bristol City Council in March 2014. I decided I wanted to do an appren-

ticeship as I wanted to gain workplace skills that would be transferable in any job, and I thought that would be the best way to do it. “The experience I have gained so far has been excellent. “There are always people on hand to help and support you, and you are learning so much every day. “The admin-based office skills you learn are very important, “I don’t think you can get those skills from studying an academic course.� Nadia, who lives in the Old Market

area of Bristol, added that she felt it was important for her to gain as much experience as possible before embarking on a career, and

said an apprenticeship offers people the chance to earn, work and study. She said: “You are still studying

and gaining qualifications as well as life skills. “I think it is a great option. “I don’t think I would have been

able to gain my full-time job here without doing my apprenticeship first, so it has definitely been a step up to help me in my career.�

‘The experience is invaluable – I’d recommend it to anyone’

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TWENTY-seven-year-old Martin Davis works in the sustainable transport department of Bristol City Council as an apprentice. Martin, from Yate, has always wanted a career in sustainable transport, and had studied for years at college to get there, and even started a university course in the subject. But he decided the academic route into it was not for him, and was determined to gain an apprenticeship with the council through City of Bristol College to help him into his

chosen career. He said: “I was studying at college for a few years, and I didn’t feel like it was for me and that’s when I saw the advert for the position on Bristol City Council’s website. I actually applied for the job three times before I was successful. “I carried on studying at college and even went to university to start studying the topic. “But at university you learn the theories behind things, whereas in the work place you get the reality of

the situation and deal with the current and ongoing issues, which I think is more valuable. “I applied for the position for the fourth time and was successful, so I left university to start the apprenticeship. “I definitely feel like I made the right decision. I am learning so much everyday, and the people I work with are so helpful and supportive. They are not afraid to challenge me. “I have found out a lot about what the council do which I had never

“ At university you learn the theories behind things, whereas in the work place you get the reality of the situation and deal with the current issues, which I think is more valuable. Martin Davis

realised before, and it has made me appreciate just how much goes into it. I now know that this is definitely something I want to do and I feel like this placement will really help with that.� Martin added that he would recommend an apprenticeship to any young people thinking of undertaking one. He said: “The experience you gain is invaluable really and I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship.�

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

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Investing in the next generation of workers

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ITHEGROVE Limited is a thriving civil engineering groundworks contractor, with head offices in Swindon. The company currently operates in Wiltshire, Gloucestershire, Bristol, Somerset, Devon, Berkshire and Oxfordshire. For more than 30 years, Tithegrove has worked with household names such as Taylor Wimpey, Barratt and Persimmon Homes as groundworks specialists on residential developments throughout the South West of England and, more recently, in the South East. Understanding the importance of good communication and of building strong working partnerships, the company has, for a number of years, worked hard at training and developing staff in order to provide a first-class service to an increasing portfolio of clients. More recently, Tithegrove has recognised the need to provide a pathway for 16 to 18-year-olds in order to

“future-proof ” its own workforce and meet the ever-increasing skills requirements of the industry. The Construction Industry Training Board’s (CITB) Construction Skills Network survey in February revealed that 30,000 new jobs in the South West are due to be created over the next five years to 2019, but that skills shortages threatened the region’s ability to realise its economic potential. The Groundworks Apprenticeship Scheme (GAS) launching in September 2015 will help tackle this problem and the pilot scheme will initially take on ten groundworks apprentices on sites in and around this region. If successful, the intention is to increase the number of trainees in subsequent years – rolling it out into other regions as the company expands. The course will comprise both practical and vocational elements, with trainees studying toward an NVQ2 in general construction with the National Construction College, as

well as a completing a tailored in-house programme to ensure they become fully competent operatives at the end of their apprenticeship. At the end of the first year, apprentices will have the opportunity to take their driving test following an intensive driving course and, at the end of two years, those who complete all elements of the programme successfully will be given the chance to apply for a full-time job with the

company. In partnership with the CITB, Tithegrove has spent the last few months introducing “groundworks” to students in local schools and, in addition to Bristol Post’s Apprentices Fair on April 23, is taking part in a number of events to raise awareness of construction as a career option. This recently included a site visit and talk during National Apprenticeship Week, pictured.

The event gave students an insight into working life at a construction site. Visitors were given a tour, with information about which skills are in high demand, and how to acquire them through apprenticeships, leading to jobs in the industry.

● For further information, contact Lauren Stevens, Training co-ordinator, at Lauren@tithegrove.co.uk or find us on @tithegrove /tithegroveGAS

Groundworks

Apprenticeship Scheme Launches September 2015

Tithegrove Ltd are looking for 16-18 year olds with a desire to work in Construction. During the Apprenticeship full on the job training will be provided and all trainees will complete an NVQ level 2 in General Construction. The company will pay the Minimum wage for 16-18 year olds (currently £3.79 per hour), rather than the Apprentice Wage (£2.73 per hour). During the second year apprentices will have the opportunity to take their driving test following a one week intensive course. Each Apprentice will be mentored by an experienced Site Supervisor and supported by a Training Support Officer.

@tithegrove

/tithegrove

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For more information please contact Lauren Stevens, Training Co-ordinator LAUREN@TITHEGROVE.CO.UK

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

Training up 60 electricians – and counting

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EFF Way Electrical is a Bristol-based family business which completes electrical installations to new-build, commercial and domestic projects. Dedicated to encouraging the next generation of electricians, the company has taken on 60 apprentices over the years (including 25 in the last four years) and a quarter of the workforce has either completed an apprenticeship or is an apprentice. The four directors are all part of the Way family and have grown the business over the years to the point where it now employs more than 125 staff and has a fleet of 50 vehicles. The company turns over £9m. The company wires new housing sites for many large national house builders, including Taylor Wimpey, and also designs and builds systems for large residential schemes, such as Port Marine in Portishead, and Wapping Wharf, in Bristol. Jeff Way Electrical is also completing the electrical installation at Bath Riverside development and is part of a large upgrade programme to Bristol City Council’s properties, completing work on approximately 1,400 properties per year. In the commercial field, the company takes on specialist installations, such as museum and gallery lighting

“ We are very proud to offer such training and career opportunities to the next generation of electricians. and lift shaft upgrades. Each apprentice is dedicated to a particular area of the business for a period of time and is assigned a mentor. Their progress is monitored both in work and at college and the company is proud of the good quality training it provides to apprentices; the pass rate is very high and employment is always offered at the end of the apprenticeship. A company spokesman said: “We consider ourselves to be an excellent employer and can offer training in all areas of the electrical industry. “We have been a finalist in the medium employer category of the Bristol Post Business Awards and one apprentice was a finalist for Outstanding Apprentice of the Year. “We are very proud to offer such training and career opportunities to the next generation of electricians and it is so pleasing to be able to state that 25 per cent of our staff are either in an apprenticeship or have completed an apprenticeship with us.”

Giving you the spark you need for your future... Jeff Way Electrical Apprenticeships Jeff Way Electrical Services Ltd are great believers in the apprenticeship scheme and during the past 10 years we have had in excess of 40 apprentices working through the apprenticeship program. Our successful apprenticeships have been recognised with Jeff Way Electrical Services being awarded South West Employer of the Year. We have also seen success with a number of our apprentices being nominated for the South West Apprentice of the Year, with one actually winning the award and being nominated for the National Apprentice of the Year.

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To find out more visit www.jeffway.co.uk or call 0117 909 0517

The Square l Knowle l Bristol l BS4 2SS l 0117 909 0517 l www.jeffway.co.uk l enquiries@jeffway.co.uk

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

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Apprentices sing the praises of college scheme

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OU would expect Weston College bosses to say that the apprenticeships it offers are awesome – but you don’t just have to take their word for

it. The apprentices themselves have been taking to social media to spread the word about the many benefits of their training, in the hope of encouraging others to take up apprenticeships. Short film clips and selfies were posted by apprentices on a dedicated apprenticeship Facebook page, with key facts and questions in order to encourage ‘likes’ and ‘shares’. The campaign was organised as part of National Apprenticeship Week by Weston College’s Apprenticeship recruitment team, which works closely with a dedicated sales team that engages with businesses to create apprenticeship opportunities. James Wilmot, Apprenticeships Recruitment Coordinator, said: “The

Facebook campaign has been enormous fun and the apprenticeship team really enjoyed posting the clips and selfies online. “It was fantastic to see our apprentices enjoying their work so much and promoting apprenticeships in such a positive way.� More than 8,000 people were reached by Facebook during the campaign. Chocolates were delivered to many of the contributing apprentices and Argos vouchers given to the best entries. Winners were Becky Millard, at Debbie Fortune Estate Agents, and Will Dix-McGrath and Lois Erasmus, who are both at Castellan (all pictured). Apprentice sales negotiator Becky Millard said: “Apprenticeships are awesome. Whether you are looking to gain practical skills alongside qualifications, or are looking for an alternative to university, apprenticeships provide the skills employers

want and provide you with an income.� Apprentice customer service administrator Lois Erasmus said: “I wanted to be able to channel my enthusiasm to helping people and making sure they were satisfied with the services they were provided with, and I feel that, after beginning my apprenticeship, I have been able to do

those things.� Weston College – the TES FE College of the Year 2015 – works with more than 1,400 employers, large and small, across the South West, in nearly 100 different sectors. There are many benefits to being an apprentice; there is the opportunity to earn while you learn, being paid a wage while working towards nationally-recognised qualifications,

and all the time gaining extremely valuable, hands-on, real-industry, experience. For businesses, proven benefits include increased productivity, a more motivated workforce, reduced recruitment and training costs and many more.

� For more information, contact the college’s Business Enterprise Centre on 01934 411 594.

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

‘Sending in the application form was the best thing I’ve done in a long time’ South Gloucestershire and Stroud (SGS) College offers students a huge range of exciting and rewarding apprenticeships across a variety of industries. The college works with the Ministry of Defence to offer a range of apprenticeship places, and here four apprentices explain how they got their sought-after placements: Case study: Tom Gregory “I joined the Defence Commercial Apprentice Programme (DCAP) in January 2014 following an intensive but rewarding recruitment process. After an enjoyable induction week that included a visit to Portsmouth Naval Base, I joined my first six month placement in the Air to Air Missiles team within the Weapons Operating Centre. “After being introduced to the team, I was given an overview of the various interesting projects in their portfolio and made to feel at home. “Alongside my mandatory training and college attendance, I’ve been assisting my team with their various day to day activities and have already been on several visits to gain first hand experience of the sort of equipment that is supplied to our Armed Forces. “With the exceptionally supportive environment provided by the DCAP team, the opportunity to gain industry recognised qualifications and the excellent working environment, I do not hesitate in recommending the programme to anyone looking for a fulfilling career in the Ministry of Defence.”

● Dylan Balgobin, Claire Bennett, Tom Gregory and Ben Newmarch-Christensen

Case Study: Claire Bennett

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“Since leaving sixth-form, I had been working for a large insurance company. Although this was a challenging role, there was no scope for further professional development or the chance to learn new skills. “I applied for the Defence Commercial Apprenticeship Programme as it provided me with the additional learning opportunities that I craved, whilst still offering me a generous monthly salary. “I had never previously considered a role in Commercial, or realised this type of apprenticeship existed, but after the comprehensive induction week that the MOD offer, I knew I had made the right choice. In addition, the role of a Commercial Officer allows you to help the Armed Forces directly which is something that really appealed to me. “After being in my initial placement for just two weeks, I had already put steps in place to purchase high-tech equipment for the Special Forces to use. Other opportunities have included: visiting the RAF base in Brize Norton, a boat trip around Portsmouth

Naval Harbour and the chance to attend a networking event in the London Main Building.”

Case study: Dylan Balgobin “Having taught English as an Additional Language teacher for the better part of seven years, I craved a change in career. “When I saw the advert for the

Commercial Apprenticeship Programme offered by the MOD, I jumped at the opportunity and applied. “As a part of the Apprenticeship program there are countless training opportunities including an NVQ in Supply Chain Management as well as a professionally accredited and recognised qualification from the Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply (CIPS) which is second to none. “It may seem a daunting task, but we spend one afternoon a week at college, have our very own Assessors, Line Managers and Placement Line Managers who only want us to succeed. “We are each given a Buddy, someone with a bit more experience than us in working at the MOD, and a Mentor who can help with career decisions. “Highly competitive, this apprenticeship offers an incredible opportunity to be part of the vast machine, supporting all parts of our Armed Forces. “Sending in that application has been the best thing I’ve done, in a very long time.”

Case study: Ben NewmarchChristensen After 12 years in the Royal Air Force as a Logistics specialist and working for a year within various Logistic roles outside of the Military, I needed to start my career over again. The Commercial Apprenticeship Programme has provided me that opportunity. “At first when I saw it advertised I felt I was too long in the tooth and under qualified having no A-Levels or a degree to participate in the scheme, but the support from my wife and family helped me decide this was a good move for me, so I applied and here I am now. I must confess I had prior knowledge of how the end user would receive and utilise the kit but had no knowledge of how it was procured and brought into service. “This is what enticed me into the commercial role, the thrill of a new challenge presented by the unknown. The programme gives you the ability to learn new skills and to gain a professionally recognised qualification sort after around the globe and accredited by the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS).

“You are given an incredible amount of support to allow you to achieve the CIPS qualification, with the scheme providing you mentors and buddies whom support you in all things civil service. You will do placement in the various departments based at Abbey Wood, giving you valuable insight into the workings of a Commercial Officer allowing you to develop the skills needed for a fruitful career. I’m currently working within the Force Protection commercial role reviewing contracts and liaising with contractors, providing details and actions for them to accept and make amendments to running contracts, whilst attending college once a week working towards my accreditation for CIPS. “The team of commercial experts I work with monitor my progress and advise me every step of the way and are helping me to manage and support current contracts that are vital for ongoing operations worldwide. This experience has been second to none for me and I would say to anyone reading this that wants a fresh start, the Commercial Apprenticeship Programme is for you.”

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

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’Outstanding’ college offers range of options

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N the short time since the formation of South Gloucestershire & Stroud College in 2011 (following the merger of Filton and Stroud colleges) the new college has gone from strength to strength, as confirmed in the recent Ofsted inspection in November 2014. With “outstanding� grades for leadership and management, learning support, business and sport, and a “good� overall grade, the college is highlighted as an excellent example of a successful merger. Apprenticeship provision has been particularly successful, with more than 1,200 apprentices per year and both overall and timely success rates well ahead of national averages. Well over half the apprentices are in the “outstanding� faculties of business and sport. SGS College offers a wide range of apprenticeships within the Bristol, Stroud, South Gloucestershire and

Gloucestershire areas in the following sectors: � Team leading, management and HR management � Business administration, customer service and retail � Sales, marketing and social media � IT professional, IT user and web design � Construction Trades, Plumbing and Electrical � Engineering � Accountancy (AAT) and supply chain management � Sports – activity leadership, sports development and AASE � Health and social care, early years and children and young peoples workforce � Education and schools Much of the growth is attributable to long-term partnerships with key employers, both large and small. These include public sector organisations, such as South Gloucester-

shire Council and the Ministry of Defence, large multinationals, such as Boeing, and local employers in all sectors. Patrick Mcleod, Head of Offsite Provision, said: “We pride ourselves on working closely with our employers, to ensure we get a clear understanding of their requirements. We know their teams and we are able to help them recruit great apprentices that become real assets to their businesses. We make sure the learning plan is tailored to meet their skills needs. For example, all our IT apprentices are following a different mix of units, depending on their individual job roles. We have students employed in IT support functions, software development, network and server support, cabling and networking and in web design roles. Most

apprentices continue into permanent employment with their employer and many progress to a higher level of apprenticeship. We have had a number of our apprentices become Apprenticeship Ambassadors, to promote the programme to other employers and would-be apprentices.� Another area of growth is the new range of Higher Apprenticeships, available at levels 4-7. These are offered in the sectors of business, innovation and growth, HR management, accountancy, IT, supply chain, marketing, care, and, from September, in construction management and engineering. SGS College offers a very successful recruitment service for employers considering taking on an apprentice. There is a talent pool of apprenticeship-ready students on traineeships, there are more than

4,000 college students and, through the work with the school careers services and external partnerships, the vacancy matching staff are perfectly placed to find the right individual, not only to fit the job role but to fit the team. In 2013-14 SGS College filled 87 per cent of the apprenticeship vacancies advertised. Calvin Blay-Field, General Manager of Tedim International Ltd. added: “Through the continued work with SGS College’s apprentice recruitment, we have successfully recruited apprentices for many areas of our business and are looking to expand this further over the coming months.�

â—? For more information, contact the apprenticeship team on 0800 072 6077, or email apprenticeships@ sgscol.ac.uk

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Start your journey with us

The Mon Motors Group is a proud, family run company that was established in 1971. Today we are one of the largest automotive dealer groups in South Wales and the West of England.The Group is made up of main dealerships for Audi, Ford, SEAT, ŠKODA and Volkswagen, along with a number of multi-brand service centres, body shops and TPS (our trade parts division). Our Audi, SEAT, ŠKODA and Volkswagen staff all benefit from Volkswagen Group training, which includes the Volkswagen Group Advanced Apprenticeship Programme. Each of these Volkswagen Group brands has a reputation for providing service and training that is second to none.A successful business demands a skilled workforce.And a skilled workforce demands training and knowledge. It’s that simple. We want to attract, develop and retain people with a broad range of skills. Our apprentices who are trained through the Volkswagen Group Programme add real benefits to our dealerships, and, in return, have the chance to build the foundations for an exciting, rewarding and fulfilling career.

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For more information visit www. monmotors.com

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

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How Chloe got on the fast track to success

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HLOE is a first year technical apprentice with Bristol Audi, which she joined in November 2014. She says: “I didn’t consider a technical apprenticeship even though my family have always been into cars. I originally wanted to be a midwife, but the month of my GCSEs I started talking to a neighbour who was working on his car and within a week I had decided to change my career. I knew then that I wanted to work with cars. “I have always learnt better with practical things, and have always been quite mechanical and, while I did well with my written exams, I didn’t enjoy them. So, learning while working through an apprenticeship was the best option for me. “In work I have been learning about how to service a car and why that needs to be completed, and about diagnosing faults from both software and mechanical components. “My mentor is a gearbox specialist and I really enjoy working with him. I love that I find all the complicated mechanical stuff easy to understand! “I attend college every other month for a week at a time. Most recently, we have been learning about braking and steering. On our last block-re-

“ My ambition once I have qualified is to train to become a master technician; I want to see how far I can get. lease week we took a car apart and then put it back together again, which I really enjoyed. “When we are at college we stay away at a hotel that is specifically for apprentices. It is a really sociable place, with lots of things to do, including a games room, TV room, gym and a massive restaurant, with really good food. They also organise an activity night – last time we went to a Laser Tag event, which was great fun. “There are only two girls on my course and, while the motor industry is perceived as a very male-dominated industry, I get on really well with everyone and just feel like one of the lads. They are like my brothers I have made some really good friends. “My ambition once I have qualified is to train to become a master technician; I want to see how far I can get. Maybe ultimately I’d like to work with Red Bull, but I know I can always come back home to Bristol Audi.�

Young hero Montell an inspiration NOT everyone leaving school knows what they want to do with their life. This certainly was the case for Montell, who left school with few qualifications and no idea what to do as a career. All he knew was that he loved sport. He started the Second Chance Coachmakers programme and he quickly found direction. His natural leadership ability became apparent early on and he developed into a motivated and dedicated learner. He impressed so much while on his work placement with Access Sport, coaching multi sports around the city, that they invited him to interview for an Apprenticeship – and he was successful. Some time into the apprenticeship, Montell decided his goal was university. In order to get there he needed his level 3 BTEC. On finishing his apprenticeship he progressed to SGS College in Bristol, where he continued to excel in his studies. 2nd Chance met Montell’s tutor at SGS College at a careers event. Both agreed how exceptional his journey was and what an amazing role model he was to his peers. As a result, they nominated Montell for the Bristol Young Heroes Awards in the Education Hero category. On March 28 at the Bristol Young Heroes Awards, 2nd Chance, SGS College, Montell and his mum, all attended to await the result of his category. It was a tough category as the other two young men short-listed were outstanding, but Montell was named as the winner and all of his supporters erupted; he received the biggest cheer of the night. An apprenticeship and the right support gave Montell the opportunity – he did all the hard work.What are you waiting for?

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

Why training academy’s a cut above the rest

A

RE you looking for high quality, flexible hairdressing or barbering training, with outstanding resources? Then choose Reflections Training Academy. This award-winning hairdressing academy, based in the centre of Bristol, caters for learners of all ages wishing to train and develop a career in ladies’ and gents’ hairdressing. Apprenticeships on offer include NVQ Level 2 and 3 diploma in hairdressing and an Level 2 in barbering. There is also a pre-apprenticeship study programme, traineeships, training in English and maths, “employability skills� and personal learning and thinking skills. The academy’s mission statement is “Educate in order to innovate� and it aims to provide and uphold the highest standard of training for all learners. As a measure of excellence,

the academy was graded “outstanding� at its most recent Ofsted inspection. the flexible training programmes take place in four state-of-the-art hairdressing studios and a new barbering facility. There’s also a learner “chill out� area with lockers and a computer room. It’s a fun and friendly learning environment, with professional and highly skilled tutors. To help hone their skills, learners are encouraged to take part in the academy’s highly acclaimed learner competition. Among the academy’s accolades are: Investors in People award; Matrix Quality Standard award; UK Hairdressing Council Student of the Year Level 3 winner 2013 and 2014; City & Guilds Medal of Excellence winner 2014; Wella Professionals Xposure Gold winner 2014; National Hairdressing Federation Photographic Stylist finalist.

CASE STUDY 1 â—? Josh Parr, 23, Hairdressing Advanced Apprenticeship Learner, employed at Moda Hairdressing, Bristol

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Josh won National Student of the Year award from the Hairdressing Council which he describes as “an absolutely massive achievement for me�. Describing the experience, he continued: “We all had to cut and style our model’s hair within 50 minutes and I was really pleased with the final look of my model. I then had an interview with three judges, when I had to present my model, explain my inspiration, and how I created the look. .On a glam rock theme, I chose a really heavily textured haircut, with slices of bright colours going from the crown through to the fringe. I then had to present my model on stage, with two judges asking me questions on how I created the look, and what it would mean for me to win. When the judges announced me as the winner I couldn’t have been happier. It has without doubt been the highlight of my career in hairdressing so far, and I am extremely excited to see what opportunities will come from this achievement. My ultimate

goal is to cut and style gents’ hair for photo shoots and TV.�

CASE STUDY 2 � Yassin Darboe, 22, Hairdressing Advanced Apprenticeship Learner, working at Georgina’s salon in Easton, Bristol. Yassin is originally from Gambia, where she would watch her mother styling hair and practice plaiting using sweet corn husks. She moved to the UK in 2008 to further her education and opportunities, leaving behind her family. Yassin initially attended college to improve her English and then enrolled on a hairdressing apprenticeship at Reflections Training Academy in 2012. Yassin has just completed her Level 2 in hairdressing and is working towards Level 3. Yassin loves cutting, plaiting, cornrows, extensions, styling and colouring and has worked extremely hard to overcome many barriers to pursuing her career in hairdressing. She went against her father’s wishes, she undertook the course in her non-native language, she was away from her family, her home country and friends, but, despite all this, she has excelled .

“ When the judges announced me as the winner I couldn’t have been happier. It has without doubt been the highlight of my career in hairdressing so far.�

Josh Parr

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

13

Apprentices play a central role for fast-track firm

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LARKSON Evans is one of the UK’s fastest growing firms of electrical contractors, wiring one in 10 new homes in England and Wales last year. They’re big enough to win repeat contracts from the UK’s leading house builders, like Redrow, Barratt, Taylor Wimpey and Persimmon, yet small enough for Managing Director Steve Evans to take a personal interest in the career development of each apprentice. They offer electrical apprenticeship opportunities across most of England & Wales and throughout the South West including Bristol, Bridgwater, Exeter and Gloucester. Almost three quarters of their current qualified electricians completed their apprenticeship training with the company. Former apprentices also make up the bulk of the company’s team leaders and area supervisors

and several have made it onto the board of directors. Apprentices learn from some outstanding electricians as they gain broad practical experience on housing development sites, supplemented by classroom and workshop-based training at the company’s in-house training centres. By recruiting the best people and giving them every opportunity to develop, Clarkson Evans know they’ll continue to be market leaders in electrical contracting – and a great place to work. Many of the company’s most successful apprentices have gone on to become high performing team leaders. Bristol Apprenticeship Finalist Ryan Jones, pictured, decided to give up a successful career as a chef to join Clarkson Evans. Being a chef saw Ryan work as part of a team in a fast-paced environ-

“ I wanted to earn while I learnt a trade and having

researched various companies I decided on Clarkson Evans because I liked their structured approach to training.”

Apprentice Ryan Jones

ment, taking on responsibility and using his initiative. All these skills have made Ryan a better electrical apprentice and have contributed to him being selected to join a fast-track apprenticeship group at Clarkson Evans. “I wanted to earn while I learnt a trade and having researched various companies I decided upon Clarkson Evans because I liked their structured approach to training. I was also

attracted to the company because they stress that they offer good career progression opportunities and ultimately I want to become a team leader and eventually an area supervisor. It was a risk giving up my job as a chef as I was doing really well but I know I made the right decision. I can see my future in front of me and I’m very positive about the opportunities that will develop when I complete my apprenticeship,” said Ryan.

Join Clarkson Evans’ award-winning team

Apprentice electricians wanted in Bristol As one of the ’s fastest growing electrical contractors we’re looking for e i le energetic apprentices with a switched on attitude to learning. Clarkson Evans wired one in 10 new homes in England & Wales last year and we’ve got a busy order book in the Bristol area. Our award-winning training, strong team spirit and excellent career prospects mean our local apprenticeship opportunities are in high demand. You’ll get real experience working on new housing developments in the local area and will attend our training centre on a day release basis. If you have ambition and a natural knack for all things practical you’ll light up our interest in you. You need to be aged 18+, hold a full driving licence and have good GCSE grades in English and maths. We offer long-term career prospects, bonus rewards for great performance, a company pension and free breakfast each morning!

If we’ve sparked your interest in a long-term career with Clarkson Evans visit www.clarksonevans.co.uk and click on ‘recruitment’ to apply online.

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Join the conversation @clarksonevans www.clarksonevans.co.uk

14 find more

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local jobs

Thursday, April 23, 2015

bristolpost.co.uk/jobs

Scheme helping to maintain building boom

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RISTOL-based Helm Construction is reaping the dividends of its in-house apprenticeship programme as the UK construction sector struggles to cope with a skills shortage. Chief executive officer Gary Sheppard said the industry would have been better placed to cope with the economic recovery if it had adopted similarly robust long-term training initiatives. He said: “We are in the initial stages of the biggest building boom since the 1970s, but the recession has left many firms struggling to find the highly skilled workforce they need to deliver on site, on time. We see the current skills shortage within the industry as completely self-inflicted.� Construction sector commentators are predicting the biggest boom will be in the South West, with more than 30,000 jobs created along with tens of thousands of

new homes. But Helm Construction won’t be caught out, sidestepping labour shortages by expanding its in-house training programme. The firm, which specialises in new-build homes, commercial development and large single builds or extensions, is bringing forward its next generation of apprentices rather than recruiting from a rapidly constricting labour pool or relying on sub-contractors. Helm Construction has just offered two new apprenticeships to James Fox and Lee Nicholls, while Kim Ritchings, Stuart Rawlings and Scott Reeves have been on CITB training courses to speed their progress up through the ranks. Site manager Kim said: “We have a strong record of bringing on and promoting our apprentices, secure in the knowledge they have done things our way from day one. Scott Reeves worked his way up through the ranks to site foreman

after starting as an apprentice during the recession. “We took the decision five years ago to invest in a comprehensive apprenticeship programme in order to train the next generation of bricklayers, carpenters and electricians and this is certainly paying dividends now.� Helm Construction’s highly acclaimed training programme is based on aiming all apprentices at the NVQ 3 grade rather than the standard NVQ 2. The scheme has been extended to include slightly older candidates, giving people a second chance to gain the correct qualifications for a career in the industry. The firm’s training programme

is not confined to newcomers to the industry. Each member of staff in every department is encouraged to follow a personal development path and improve their qualifications. Chief Executive Gary Sheppard said: “We believe in breaking down the traditional career progressions, ensuring that further training is available for all employees regardless of background and age. We are aiming to build the skills we have within the company all at levels, formalising qualifications and encouraging employees on to specially targeted career paths.�

â—? For further information, contact Helm Construction on 01454 634 020.

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Thursday, April 23, 2015

Gold standard College among the best in UK for realising potential

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GS College has been awarded the Investors in People gold standard, joining the top seven per cent of accredited organisations across the UK which believes in realising the potential of their people. SGS College employs more than 1,000 people across three main campuses at Stroud, Filton and WISE, as well as many local community venues, welcoming around 15,500 full-time and part-time students of all ages every year. There are also centres in the centre of Bristol, at the West of England School of Art and at the Bristol Zoo & Gardens. Investors in People is the UK’s leading accreditation for business improvement through people management, and provides a wealth of resources for businesses to innovate, improve and grow, with a focus on good people making great business. Paul Devoy, Head of Investors in People, said: “We’d like to congratulate SGS College on the gold standard. Such a high level of accreditation is the sign of great people management practice, and demonstrates a commitment to staff development and shows an organisation committed to being the very best it can be. “SGS College should be extremely proud of their achievement.” Sara-Jane Watkins, vice-principal and deputy CEO, said: “I would like to congratulate all of those involved in our Investors in People assessment. “I am delighted that the college received the gold accolade in recognition of the support and development the college gives its staff.”

ENGINEERING

13,930 OF STEM GRADUATES IN 2014

£63,000 www.westofenglandlep.co.uk/people-and-skills/infographic-sources

High Tech & Electronics Manufacture & Mechanical Aerospace, Defence & Marine Energy & Power Generation Food & Drink Technologies Medical Civil & Rail

NEW APPRENTICES IN 2014

44,400 LOCAL JOBS

4,678 ENGINEERING BUSINESSES

CASE STUDY: ALEX EDEN ● Alex Eden, 23, from Yate, started an apprenticeship in business administration in the summer of 2013. She completed the course at SGS College and now works within the college’s Suited Booted Recruited (SBR) team, which provides tailored courses to help people get back into employment. SBR Tutor Louise Slessor said: “Alex was one of my students on the SBR course and she was a delight to teach. Her motivation and enthusiasm rubbed off on the other students and her witty sense of humour made the two-week course really fun for all of us. “When the team decided to recruit an administration apprentice she was the first person I thought of. I knew she would be a huge asset to our team and I was not wrong. She builds amazing rapport with all of our learners and partners and has become an integral member of the team.” Alex, who completed the Level 2 qualification in 2014, is now awaiting certification for completion of the Level 3 business administration qualification. She has also been promoted from apprenticeship administrator to apprenticeship coordinator, with more responsibility and a pay increase. Alex said: “I was thrilled when my two weeks on the Suited Booted Recruited course turned into a full-time apprenticeship and I have learned so much over the last two years. “The Level 3 was more challenging, but the college and my work friends supported me every step of the way. I’ve made some great friends here at SGS College and I enjoy going to work every day; it makes me feel so accomplished when I get feedback from learners saying that the course has really increased their confidence. “Looking to the future, I am going to move on to the Level 4 business administration qualification, which will be equivalent to degree level.”

A SAMPLE OF APPRENTICESHIPS AVAILABLE: ENGINEERING ADVANCED ENGINEERING MANUFACTURE CRAFT TECHNICIAN ENGINEERING MANUFACTURE (SENIOR TECHNICIAN) ENGINEERING INTERMEDIATE ENGINEERING MANUFACTURE (OPERATOR & SEMI-SKILLED) IMPROVING OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE RAIL ENGINEERING (TRACK)

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NATIONAL AVERAGE ANNUAL CHARTERED ENGINEER SALARY

INDUSTRY CATEGORIES

604

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