Apprenticeships Feb 2022

Putyourskills into practice with BMet

Apprenticeships are an exciting option for school leavers –theyofferhands-ontraining andthe chance to put skills into practice in theworkplace.

BMet deliversapprenticeships at allthree of itscolleges–James Watt College, MatthewBoulton College andSuttonColdfieldCollege.There areover20different sector-based apprenticeshipsavailable ranging from Level 2toUniversitylevel,includingapprenticeships whereemployersdirectlyrecruitcandidates

If you areinterested in combining studying alongsideworking in your chosenindustry, BMet is theright collegefor you.There areamultitude of reasonswhy people choose to studyatBMet.

n Youwill benefitfromacloseknit community of staffand studentsin ahighly supportive learningenvironment

n Thereare apprenticeshipsin arange of sectors, including: accounting,engineering,early years, horticulture,HR, paralegal, pharmacy, mediaand more!

n BenefitfromBMet’spartnershipswithmajor national companies,which meansindustryinsight andsupport

n BMet is Ofsted ratedas good forapprenticeships

n Youwill getpaidwhileyou learn!

Look outalso formoredetails aboutBMet’supcomingopenevent on Wednesday,February16–via www.bmet.ac.ukand acrossthe BMet socialmedia channels, which will includeopportunitiesto find outmoreabout apprenticeships.

Helpingyou to buildabrightfuture

Wolverhampton Homes caught up with some of itsapprentices past andpresent this National Apprenticeship Week,tohighlight how they aresupportingthe communityand working towardsapromising future in thehousing industry.

Theirlatestcohorts, whojoined thecompany in Marchand September2021, areall from theWolverhamptonareaand aged between17 and24.

Experience

They areundertaking bricklaying, carpentry, electrical,plumbing andgas apprenticeships, of between twoand four years.

They aregaining hands-on experience shadowingtradescolleagues, some of whom areformerapprentices whohavequalified andsecured rewardingcareers within WolverhamptonHomes. Theapprentices arealso enrolled at Wolverhampton Collegewhere they arestudyingfor theirchosenaccreditation.

Tia, aged 21,who is completing atwo-yearbricklaying apprentice-

ship,said: “I’velived inWolverhamptonall my life andit’sa great feelinggivingbacktothe community,withlotsofmyfriends andfamilylivinginahome that’s managed by WolverhamptonHomes.

“I’vebeenwelcomedintothe organisation with open arms, andI’ve valued theguidancefromexperienced tradespeople.

“I hope to inspireotherstoapply forfutureapprenticeships as they areagreat waytonetwork and learnonthe job.”

Alex,aged23, is aqualified plumberand apprenticeship coach. He said:“IjoinedWolverhampton Homesasan apprentice in 2017 andnever looked back.Iappreciated theguidancefrommy mentor

andasa result have become highly qualified.I’m luckyenoughtohave supportedthe communitywithour repairsservice ever since.

“I’m nowa mentor andenjoy helpingthose newtothe trade. I wish ournew apprenticesall the best whiletheyare building their future with us.”

Through itshighlysuccessful

apprenticeship programme, WolverhamptonHomesisworking with the City of WolverhamptonCounciland itspartnersas ‘One City’. Theirmission is to tackle youth unemployment in Wolverhampton, empoweryoung people to unlock their potential, and provide opportunitiesfor earlytalentto flourish ShaunAldis, ChiefExecutive of WolverhamptonHomes, said:“Developing localtalentiskey to our vision of unlockingpeople’spotential throughhousing,skillsand technology

Talent

“Our apprenticeship programme has seen many young people in the city go on to secure permanentemployment andwe’ve gained some real talent

“Our apprenticesare pairedwith experiencedcolleagues, many of whom also started as apprentices. As aresult, they arewelllookedafterand given theprogramme’s successfultrack record,become great assets to thecompany.”

In 2022,Wolverhampton Homes is lookingtotakeonapprentices, both trades andoffice.The company is also finalising itsgraduate programme, creating more opportunitiestojointhe team andsupport communities acrossthe city

I'mreallyenjoying developingmyskills. I'vemetsomegreat peopleandI'mloving itsofar.Ihopefora longandsuccessful careerwithWH!

Wolverhampton Homes’latestcohort of apprentices with Shaun Aldis, ChiefExecutive;Ian Gardner, Assistant Director in Property,and Sharon Conway-Thomas, BusinessPartner in Early Careersand Training BricklayerApprentice Tia

Apprenticeshelpcountry bounce back

Forthe second year,the themeofNationalApprenticeship

Week is “build thefuture”,highlighting thebenefits apprenticeshipsoffer both learners andemployers.

The15thannualweek-longcelebration encourages individualsof anyage to reachtheir career goals through an apprenticeship

Learners gain theopportunityto developthe skillsand knowledge required forarewarding career, andbusinesses areabletodevelop a talented workforce that is equipped with future-ready skills.

TheGovernmentsaysapprentices are“leadingthe charge in building back stronger from thepandemic”

Latest figuresshow that 40 per cent more people started apprenticeshipsinthe firstquarter of 2021/22 compared with thesame period 2020/21, whichwas up again from pre-pandemic levelsin2019.

“Fromdeliveringlife-saving care in hospitals, to helpingusdeliver theskilled workforcethiscountry needs, apprenticesare acornerstoneofthe government’splans to levelupthe country, with over five million people starting apprenticeshipssince May2010,”aGovernment spokesmansaid.

Hundreds of virtualand in-personevents aretakingplaceupand down thecountry this week,giving potentiallearnersand employers thechanceto find outmoreabout thebenefits apprenticeshipsoffer

SecretaryofState forEducation, Nadhim Zahawi,said: “Apprenticeshipsoffer people of allages the chancetoearnwhiletheylearn and buildasuccessfulcareer, whilealso delivering theskilled workforce this

countryneedstobuildbackstronger.NationalApprenticeshipWeekis afantastic opportunitytocelebrate andrecognise theachievements of apprentices, theiremployersand training providers.

“Itisgreat to seesomanyevents andactivitieshappening acrossthe countrywhich Ihopewill inspire even more people to starttheir apprenticeship journey.”

Apprenticeshipsare availableat

multiplelevels, from school leavers to people upskilling in theircareers andcompletecareerchanges.

From engineeringtonursing and from lawtodesign– thousandsof apprenticeshipsare availableevery year in avastrange of industries andcareers

What you earn will depend on the industry,locationand type of apprenticeship you choose

As well as having many benefits

forapprentices,the schemeis also popularwithemployers.Manysee it as an investment becausethey canguide andtrain theirrecruits to havethe specificskillsrequired forthe industry andensuretheyare reliable membersofthe workforce n Formoreinformation about apprenticeshipsvisit apprenticeships.gov.uk andfollowApprenticeshipsTwitter andApprenticeships LinkedIn forregular updates.

Today’stechnicaleducation fortomorrow’scareers ApplyNow.

Boostyourcareerprospects.

The new,Institute of Technology, will provide you with avibrant learning environment to enable you to achieve your academic goals and career aspirations. Through ourexciting collaborations with Dudley College of Technology and the Universities of Wolverhampton andWorcester,weoffer non-traditional higher educationcourses that allow you to combine both study and work.

The IoT provides technicaleducation with clear pathways to skilledjobs in the following sectors:

•Advanced Engineering &Manufacturing

•ModernMethods of Construction &Offsite

•Medical Engineering &Healthcare. The curriculum includes high-quality technicalprogrammesandAdvanced Apprenticeship opportunities from Level 4through to degree level and beyond.

ScanQR codetoapply.

Apprenticeshipsoffer hands-ontraining andthe chance to test your skillsApprenticeshipsare an exciting option for both apprenticeand employer

Kick-start your future at open event

Make UK is helping to future-proofcareers for youngpeopleacrossthe region with itsopenday during National Apprenticeship Week.

To help young people in theMidlandssecurewell-paid careers, Make UK is hostinganopenday at itsTechnologyHub in Aston, Birmingham,onSaturday, from 10am to 2pm.

Prestigious

Attendeescan learndirectlyfrom employershow to successfullyapplyfor oneofover 300vacancies starting in September,tokickstart high-flying careersdespite adifficult jobmarket.

Make UK offers arange of manufacturing andengineering apprenticeshipswithprestigious companies includingJaguarLandRover, SevernTrent andRolls Royceto young people aged 16 andover

Applicants come from allaround theMidlands, with residential placements availabletothose that live furtherafield.

At theopenday,attendees can meet potentialemployersto find out how to make theirapplication stand outfromthe crowd.

Theopenday will includeatour

of Make UK’s state-of-the-art facilitybycurrent apprentices, whowill offertheir insights andexplain why they chosetheir career path

Attendeescan discoverwhatit’s likebeing aFormula 1car designer by taking part in apractical F1 in Schoolsactivity, to design andbuild aminiature Formula1car using CAD/CAMdesigntools.There will also be weldingand tyre change

challenges that encourageteamwork.

FionaMcGarry,engagement manageratMakeUK, said:“The pandemic haswreaked havoc on the jobmarket, particularly foryoung people andthose from poorerbackgrounds.

“Engineering is alucrative and funindustrytoenter andthe averageengineering apprentice at Make

UK earnsdoublethe minimum apprentice rate of £4.30 perhourfor thoseaged16-18 and£4.40 for19 andover.

“Wehavea 90 percentretention rate,which showshow ourapprenticesgoontobuild long-term careerswiththeir employers.

“Engineering isn’tjustworking in afactory

“ItincludesAI, robotics,auto-

mation,3Dprintingand more. You couldput people into space,design roller coasters,break theland speed record or buildsmart cities “There areevenroles in areas that most people wouldn’t thinkof, likemedia,TVand fashion,”added McGarry.

n To register forthe open dayfor free,visit thewebsite at make.org/ opendays

MakeUKoffersarange of manufacturingand engineering apprenticeshipswith prestigiouscompanies to youngpeople aged 16 andover

Discoverthe ideal newcareerfor you

Apprenticeships– what’s stoppingyou?

Thinkyou’retoo oldfor an apprenticeship or that you don’thave theexperiencetostart one? Or maybe, you’rejustnot sure which apprenticeship to choose or howto applyfor roles?

If you’refacingany of thesecareer obstacles, don’tlet this stop you.Anapprenticeshipfuturecan be yours andWalsall Collegecan guideyou throughyourjourney

AGEVSEXPERIENCE

An apprenticeship cansuitanyone,fromasixth former taking their firststepontothe career laddertoa45-year-old whoisseeking a career change duetothe pandemic

Thesamegoesifyou areaYear 11 studentabout to leaveschool. Or you’resomeone coming back into workafteracareerbreak

If there’sanindustryorjob that hascaughtyoureye,but you haven’t workedin it before or you’ve hadlimitedworkexperienceuntil now, then don’truleout an apprenticeship

Samantha Munday’s dreamrole of workingwithchildrenand young peoplewithspecial educationneeds anddisabilities (SEND) became possible throughaTeachingAssistant Apprenticeship

Thephotography graduate joined Aldridge School,completed aLevel

2Supported Teaching andLearningqualification,isnow studying Level3and remainspassionate abouthelping students fulfiltheir potential.

“I take prideinseeingthe stu-

dentsIworkwithgainconfidencein theirabilities andachieve academically; especially when they make it through theirGCSEs andgoonto sixthform,”saidSamantha.

WHAT TO STUDY

If you’renot quitesurewhat

Get ahead-start with an Apprenticeship

An Apprenticeship is abrilliantfirst step onyourcareerpath!

Gain nationally recognised qualifications whilst earning awage, and combine practical‘hands-on’experiencewithacademicknowledge.

Apprenticeshipsavailable include:

•Automotive

•Accountingand Finance

•Digital Marketing

•ElectricalInstallation/Maintenance

•Plumbing andDomestic Heating

•Teaching Assistant

•DentalNurse

•Signmaking

•Pharmacy

•Bricklaying Andmanymore!

Find outmore: www.walsallcollege.ac.uk/apprenticeships

routetotake, theJob Shop Team areonhandtotalkthrough avarietyofoptions, providecareers advice andhelpwithworkexperience placements

Afterworking in retail andbusiness administration,Trish Barnes realisedshe preferredamore

hands-on career in construction Sheisnow aplasteringapprentice with TheWrekinHousing Group.

“I wasdoing shiftworkortemporary contractsbeforemyapprenticeship came along,”saidTrish

“Thisjob is much more stable and Ican move into otherconstruction jobs,orprogressintoanadvanced craftplasterer role if Iever want to.”

Sheadded: “I prefer this kind of work to anything I’ve done before At theend of each day, Ican step back andsee what I’ve achieved.”

NOTSUREHOW TO APPLYFOR VACANCIES?

TheApprenticeshipTeamhelps potentialapprentices search forvacanciesand complete theirapplications.

They canalso take you througha mock interviewand sharehints and tips so that you come acrossasa strong candidatewiththe qualities that employersare lookingfor WalsallCollege currentlyhas a rangeofvacancies availableinareasranging from accounting and customerservice to engineering, pharmacyand construction

n To enquireabout vacanciesand applying forroles,visit thewebsite at www.walsallcollege.ac.uk/ apprenticeshipsoremail jobshop@ walsallcollege.ac.uk

INSIGHTINTOTLEVELS

Joinustofindout howthese new Tlevel qualifications bringclassroom andworkplacementstogetheronacourse designed in collaborationwiththe best employersand businesses

TLevelsavailablein: Business, Computing, Engineering,Construction, Plumbing,Electrical, Childcareand Health, find outmore at ourevent

Trish Barnes is nowaplastering apprentice with TheWrekinHousing GroupApprentice SamanthaMunday

Helpingyou reachyourfull potential

BC Impact Walsallisa dedicatedemployability programme, designed to help 16 –29-year-olds in Walsalland thewider BlackCountry with theircareeraspirations.

Based acrossthe borough, BC Impact Walsalloffersa unique way foryoung people to reachtheir full potential.

Delivered across thefourBlack CountryLocal AuthoritiesofDudley, Sandwell,Wolverhamptonand Walsall, theprogramme aims to addressthe barriers faced by young people whoare not in employment, educationortrainingbysupporting them into positive outcomesthat lead to abrighterfuture.

BC Impact Advisors offerone-toonecareersupport forparticipants, whichisusedtogaina full understanding of theparticipantaspirationsand barriers to reaching their goals.

Once identified,advisorswork with theparticipanttooffer atailored learning experience and flexiblesupport basedupontheir needs, utilising theresourcesthe programme provides Theprogramme hasaccesstoa diverse rangeoftrainingcourses andworkplacements allfullyfund-

ed by theprogramme itself,aswell as beingabletosourceand fund unique coursesthat fitaparticipant’s needs

Onesuchparticipant,who undertook aBroadcasting &Production course with Open Lens Media, had this to sayabout hisImpactAdvisor Dan.

“Ifitwasn’tfor you Dan, Inever wouldhavebeenabletodothis. You’ve given me thechancetodo somethingagain.Thank you so much!”

Anotherparticipantwho joined

theprogramme lookingfor work, andthenworking alongsidethe BC Impact teamasaDWP workcoach, hadthistosay forher Impact AdvisorNeena

“I cannot praise Neenaenough, shewas unawareofthisbut Icalled her‘My FairyJob Mother’!Ifanyone hasthe privilegeofworking with Neena, my advice wouldbeto do it!You will achieveyourgoals!”

BC Impact staffalso workwith localemployers andbusinesses, beingabletoplaceparticipants in frontofemployersthatmatter.

Those with ambitions of starting theirown business or becoming self-employed canalso access support with BC Impact,withthe programme offering expert guidance from industry professionalsin the borough

With this support, BC Impact Walsallalone hassuccessfully helped over150 participants achieve asuccessfuloutcome throughout 2021 andyou couldbenext.

If you areleaving school this summerorare lookingfor thenextstep in your career andneedguidance

to achieveyourgoals,get in touch with BlackCountry Impact Walsall on go.walsall.gov.uk/walsallcom/ Walsall-Impact,call01922 654364, or visitthe Impact Hublocated at TheCrossing at St Pauls, Darwall Street,Walsall,WS1 1DA

This projectisreceiving up to £43.6million of fundingmadeup of £21.8million from theEuropean SocialFundand £21.8million from theYouth Employment Initiative, plus matchfunding of up to £21.8 million from theNationalLottery CommunityFundand partners

Advisorsoffer one-to-one career supportfor participants, which is used to gain afull understandingoftheir aspirations and barrierstoreaching theirgoals

Collegecelebrating apprenticeships

National Apprenticeship Week is afantastic opportunitytoshowcase andcelebratethe achievements of apprenticesand thepositiveimpact they have on businesses.

Apprenticeshipsare aperfect option if you’releaving school andare keen to getstraightintoemployment,while learning newskills, earningmoneyand getting aqualification.

As many as 90%ofapprentices remain with theiremployeratthe endofthe apprenticeship,meaning youwill be on acareerpathwith lots of future potential.

Prospects

Apprenticeshipsaren’tjustfor school leavers, however,and they canbeafantastic wayofupskillingorchangingcareerifyou’re an adultlearner.They’re available from Level 2up to graduate level, meaningtheyhaverealvalue and prospectsfor alllearners.

HalesowenCollege offers awide rangeofapprenticeshipoptions from Level 2to5inexcitingareas such as DigitalMarketing, PharmacyServices, andLaboratory Scientist. Theapprenticeshipteam

will guide youthrough theapplication process, andsupport you with interviewand employability skills.

Saba Naaz hasrecentlycompleted theLevel 2Pharmacyapprenticeship andhas secureda permanent,full-timepositionwithher employer

She’shoping to progress to the Level3 apprenticeship andsaid: “HalesowenCollege helped me achievemygoals,and my assessor encouraged me andunderstood

what Ineeded to help me pass the course.I wouldrecommendapprenticeships; they’reanexcellent way to gain experience,build knowledge andlearn whiledeveloping skills andthe experience to succeed.”

TLevelscould also be agreat option if you’relooking to study alongsideaworkplacement. These coursesrun fortwo yearsand have been developed with employersand businesses,sotheymeetthe needs of industry whilepreparing you for

work, furthertrainingand study.

You’ll spend80% of thetimein theclassroom and20% in an industryplacement, developingthe specialist skills andknowledge foran occupation or career

A-levelorvocationalprogrammes arealso an excellentoptionand the collegeoffersa wide rangeofcourses forall levels,haveexcellent pass ratesand students go on to achieve fantasticthings!

Learners traveltocollege infree

transportfromall over theMidlandsand have access to outstanding, state-of-the-art facilities in a welcomingand supportive environment Register foranopeneventto find outmoreabout youroptions at www.halesowen.ac.uk/openevents/ or contactstaff usinglive chat on thewebsite.For updatesonthe fantastic things students achieve, follow@halesowencollonFacebook, Twitter andInstagram

Apprenticeshipsaren’tjustfor school leaversand they canbeafantastic wayofupskilling or changing career if you’re an adultlearner

APPRENTICESHIP

Beginadynamic and exciting apprenticeship

Do youknowsomeone interested in starting their career within engineering, weldingorsignage?

Bri-Stor Systemsand AlphaManufacturing, part of theBri-StorGroup, is hostinganApprenticeshipOpen EveningonTuesday,February15between5pm and7pm at theGroup HQ in Hixon, Staffordshire.

Bri-Stor Groupispassionateabout itsapprenticeshipschemewhich is whythe award-winningcompany continuously findsnew ways to make its three-year programmeexciting, dynamicand entirely relevant to today’s fast-paced world of work

Recruiting

Duetothe ongoingsuccess of the scheme,thisyearit’srecruitingfor moreapprentices than ever before,in awider varietyofroles

Sincethe group’sfully-accredited apprenticeship schemewas launched in 2010,ithas supportedover100 apprenticesthrough theprogramme with 100% pass rate

Pridingitself on theopportunities availablewithinthe group, allgraduateshavebeenoffered arolewithin Bri-Stor SystemsorAlpha Manufacturing upon completion of theircourse

ApprenticeManager Will DaviesHillsaid: “Manyapprentices with exceptionallyhighlevelsofdrive and

determination go on to achievea Level 4qualification

“We’ll even sponsorsome of our graduate apprenticestogoonto achieveafulldegree.

“Come alongtoour Apprenticeship Open Eveningto find outmoreabout theopportunitiesonoffer,visit our dedicatedon-site learning suite, hear from ourexperiencedApprenticeship Manager, meet currentand former apprenticesand askany questionsyou mayhave.”

Book yourplaceat www.bri-stor co.uk/apprenticeships/

Gain skills to help kick-start acareer

At Dudley Building Society, staffare dedicatedto powering life by equipping colleagues with theskills andconfidencetobuild theircareer– making dreams become reality.

Aspokesman said:“We areaccredited by theSundayTimes as one of the ‘BestCompanies to workfor’and are oneofthe topcompanies to workfor in theMidlands!

“Weare passionate aboutproviding opportunitiesfor thoseat thestart of theircareerjourney,through oursuccessfulapprenticeship programme.

Exciting

“Excitingapprenticeshipopportunities we currentlyhaveavailable are within CustomerServices, Mortgage Administration,and Products.Please visitour website to find outmoreinformation dudleybuildingsociety.co.uk/ about-us/careers/current-roles”

GeorgiaBritton,who started as an apprentice,has shared hercareer journey. Shesaid: “I startedatDudley Building SocietywhenIwas 18 years old. Iwasn’tsurewhatI wanted to do, or whereIwould endup.

“Myapprenticeshiphas opened up doorsfor me that Inever wouldhave thoughtcould be possible.Ihavehad opportunitiestohaveworkedwithin

ourCustomerService Team,Mortgage Administration Teamsand most recently ourGovernanceTeam.”

Georgiaadded: “I am now22years oldand in therecentmonthsI have been successfulin findingaposition within ourPeopleTeam.

“These experiencesand opportunities wouldnot have been possible withoutthe supportofDudleyBuildingSociety, andIcannot recommend enrolling onto ourapprenticeshipprogramme enough.”

Thereare lotsofopportunities onoffer

GovernanceOfficerGeorgiaBritton

Making apprenticeshipsworkfor you

SouthStaffordshire Collegeisthe largestFE collegewithin Staffordshire.

Thecollege has five collegelocationsknown as LichfieldCollege, Tamworth College, RodbastonCollege,Cannock Collegeand Torc College

WIDE VARIETYOFAPPRENTICESHIP AREAS

SouthStaffordshire Collegeoffers apprenticeshipsin37career areas, meaningthere is something foreveryjob function within your company. We workwithlotsofbusinesses within Staffordshireand the West Midlands andwill supportyou andyourapprenticefromstart-tofinish

SUPPORTWITH SECURING GRANT FUNDING

Ourteamcan also supportyou with accessinggrant fundingto secure an apprentice through schemessuchasthe ‘Apprenticeship 500’.Get in touchwithour team by emailing apprenticeships@ southstaffs.ac.ukto find outmore.

WE SUPPORTALL YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS

We make hiringanapprentice

easy andare committed to workingwithbusinesswithinour local region to supportyou with allyour business needs

Whetheryou arelooking to expand your workforce or support yourexistingworkforce to gain new andvaluableskills, an apprenticeship canhelpyou andyourbusiness.Inthe 2021 QDPemployer survey 100% of employersagreed we understand theircompanies’ training needsand 99%agreed we offertrainingin a flexible way.

Paul Bourne,OperationsManag-

er at Brown&Holmes(Tamworth) Ltd, said:“Therecentinvestment in both personneland equipment, combined with continualcommunication andinteraction from staff andlecturers,givesBrown and Holmes theconfidence that South StaffordshireCollege is theright placefor ourapprentices to beginand developtheir engineering learning formanyyears to come.”

With governmentfunding of at least95% andatalentpoolofeager apprenticesall wantingtoworkfor businesses likeyours,now is the

time to considerhiringanapprentice

Getintouch with theteamby calling:0300456 2424 (option2), emailing:apprenticeships@south staffs.ac.uk or visiting: southstaffs. ac.uk/employersto find outhow we canhelpyou to buildthe future

INTERESTEDINANAPPRENTICESHIP?

Areyou lookingfor apractical routeintothe industry you love? With an apprenticeship you’ll earn whileyou learnand gain recognised

Help build the future of your team

qualificationswhilst workingina real job, alongsideexperts in their field.

Louise Chatfieldiscurrently studying alevel 2adult care worker apprenticeship andsaid: “I have recently been promotedtoSenior Care within thecurrent company Iworkfor andhavebeenchoosing more difficult optional unitstoresearch that will benefitmycareer andmy serviceusers.Oncecomplete,Iwill progress on to thelevel 3apprenticeship.”

MorganFisher, whoiscurrently studying level 3businessadministration andwon West Midlands apprentice of theyear, said:“Thebest thingabout my apprenticeship is getting experiencein theworkplace! IknowsomuchthatIwouldn’tifI just dida course at college. Iam so luckythatmy employer Avantishas given me so much responsibility at such ayoung age.”

If you’d liketo find outmore about an apprenticeship,come alongtoour open dayonSaturday, March 19 between10am–1pm to speaktoour helpfulapprenticeship team.Pre-bookyourplacenow by visiting: www.southstaffs.ac.uk/ open-days

n Take alookatthe currentapprenticeship vacanciesbyvisiting: www.southstaffs.ac.uk/apprentice ship-vacancies

South Staffordshire Collegecan help youto find an apprentice andprovide supportthroughoutthe apprenticeship

Earn whileyou learn with localemployers

Learnthe vitalskills forcareer success

An apprenticeship is a greatway to getonthe career ladderand develop theskills, knowledge and behaviours needed fora successfulfuturecareer.

Apprenticescombineworking in theirchosenindustrywithstudying towardsoccupationalstandards set by employers,learning-on-the-job alongsideexperienced colleagues in theworkplace rather than sitting in a classroomall day–and becausethey’re doingarealjob they getpaidtoo!

City of WolverhamptonCollege offers over 50 apprenticeshipsinawide rangeofindustryareas and, throughouttheir training, apprenticesare supported by collegestaff whoworkclosely with individual employers to ensure that theskillsapprentices arelearning arewhatis required by thebusiness andthattheywillachieve theirfullpotentialand career aspirations.

Sophie Jones,19, whoiscombining working forWolverhampton estate agentBerrimanEaton with completingthe Level3business administratorapprenticeshipstandard, said:“An apprenticeship allows you to continue with youreducation,benefitfromonthe-jobtrainingand learnalongside colleagues whohavemanyyears’experience of workinginthe industry.

“I’m doingajob Ilove, developing theskillsand knowledge Ineed formy

future career andearning alivingat thesametime.”

INTERESTED IN AN APPRENTICESHIP?

Thecollege works with employersto advertise theirapprenticeshipvacancies andhas adedicated recruitment team availabletodiscussthe best apprenticeshipsfor specificcareers,give advice on producinga CV,recommend applicants forinterview,and provide feedback on interviewperformance n Fordetails of allapprenticeships offeredbythe collegevisit wolvcoll.ac. uk/demographic/apprentices/,callthe recruitmentteamon01902 837163 or speakto an adviseratanopenevent –get more detailsand book aplaceat wolvcoll.ac.uk/events/

Company invests in thenextgeneration

SPVhas always beena long-termsupporter of apprenticeswithin thebusiness.

Aspokesman said:“We continually invest in thenextgenerationand ensure we do ourparttopassdownthe skillsofthe many qualified operatives –10per cent of ourorganisationiscurrently made up of apprentices!

“Apprentices bringenthusiasm, freshideas,new ways of workingand areaproductive andeffective wayto grow talent anddevelop amotivated, skilled andqualified workforce

“Our apprenticesappreciatethe opportunityaffordedtothemand it is fantastictosee such enthusiasmand drivewithinthe business

“Weare so committed to apprentices that we went into partnershipwith JuniperTrainingin2019toset up a purpose-builtroofing specifictraining centre to therearofour head officesin Walsall.”

To date,the provision hasseenover 60 students supportedthrough a24week construction pathwaycourse, whichisopentoany 16 to 18 year old in thearea. This course ensuresthat students aresite-readyuponcompletion of thecourse.Theyalso offerthree trailblazercourses in waterproofing, slatingand tiling andsheetingand cladding JuniperTraining, in partnership

with SPV, currentlysupports36apprenticesonboard over theroofing disciplines.Furthermore,the provision hasproducedsome award-winning roofersincluding Mo Farhan who wasnamed as NFRC Roofer of the Year 2021 andBrandon McGrailwho wonApprenticeofthe Year at arecent industry competition.

CommercialDirectorKateWhatley is also an Apprenticeship Ambassador forthe West Midlands Apprenticeship AmbassadorNetwork, promoting the benefits to relevant stakeholders.

To find outmoreabout apprenticeship opportunitieswithSPV,call 01922 749511 today.

Business administrationapprentice SophieJones

Students on theconstruction course

Building better people throughtraining

BCTG Groupsupports thetraining of almost 10,000 youngpeopleand adults each year viaten sitesinBirmingham, the BlackCountry,Staffordshireand Newcastle-under-Lyme.

Thegroup also includes Eurosource,Further EPAO, PTPTrainingLtd andThe Apprenticeship Works, as well as BCTG SkillsCentre

In total, thegroup offers 166 differenttypes of apprenticeship, 84 differentadult upskilling and reskilling coursesand 27 pre-apprenticeship programmes for16to 24-year-olds

Development

Theseinclude everything from healthcare andearly yearscareto construction,engineering,manufacturingand logistics,through to business skills in IT,management andteamleading

Formanycompanies,apprenticeshipsare fundamentaltothe development of business,attractingnew young talent as well as providing astrikingcareerpathfor existing staff.

Groupchief executiveChris Luty said:“We workwithmorethan200

Build d YOUR

largeemployersand time andagain we seethe highestlevel of commitment towardsthe development of theirapprentices

“Frequentlythe varietyand high-quality professional rolesofferedbythese companiesmeanthat formanythe career potentialofan apprenticeship faroutweighs that of atraditional university course.”

Theapprenticeshippathway is a greatway to learnnew skillsand grow into arolewithinathriving business.Learnerscan gain essential hands-on experience whilealso having thesecurityofaweeklyincome

Regularsupport from trained informationand guidance officers is an integral part of theservice

provided to learners during their training.

James, recent winner of Apprentice of theMonth with TheApprenticeship Works, said:“Throughout my time as an apprentice Ihave learnt newskillsand gained experience in theworkplace.I wouldlike to thankThe Apprenticeship Works forworking with me to find the

rightplacementfor me.I’m looking forwardtocontinuingmydevelopment with MSC andfurtheringmy career beyond my apprenticeship.”

Jamesiscurrently undertaking aL2apprenticeshipplacementin accounting with MSC Industrial Supply Co

Head of CustomerExperienceat host employerMSC Joanne Camm added: “James is an integral part of theteamand during the 15 months he hasworkedat MSC he hasappliedhimself to learneverytask within theteam.

Empowers

“He fits in well with theteam andthe companyculture,which is inclusiveand empowers peopleto do theright thing. James certainly works with this in mind,speaking up when somethingisn’t rightand coming up with ideastoimprove.”

If youwould liketoapply foran apprenticeship or trainingcourse, or simply want to discussyouroptions, then youcan call us on 0121 5446455, emailenquiries@bctg. org.ukordropin to anyofour sites forafriendlychat.

Alternatively, if you area business andwanttolearn more about thebenefits of taking on an apprentice or upskilling yourcurrent staff, BCTG offeranoobligationdiscussion of yourbusinessneeds.

As oneofthe largestTraining Groups in the UK,BCTGGroup has awidevariety of amazingopportuni�es. Whether youare looking to start your career with aTraineeship or Appren�ceship or you’re looking to advance your career through upskilling, we have the solu�on foryou

Thereare so many benefitsofdoinganapprenticeshipas it is boosting me professionallyand is helping me begin my career in thebestway possiblefor my futuregoals. The first benefit of going through the apprenticeship route would be that Iamgaining aqualification whilst applying whatI am learning within my jobdaily

Apprenticeship vacancies:

Warehouse

Oldbury Ref: 001806895

Digital Marketing

Stourbridge Ref: 001813302

HR Admin

Wednesbury Ref: 001805971

EngineeringOperative Birmingham Ref: 001795523

Warehouse

BusinessAdmin

Tipton Ref: 001806885

Oldbury Ref: 001812380

We have many morevacancies available. Get in touch to find outmore

Scanthe QR Code to fillinanenquiryform &our team will be in touch enquiries@bctg.org.uk www.bctg.org.uk

Or contact us on the details below

-Dylan, Customer Service Apprentice

Daniel Fisher andJamesBlack arejusttwo of thelearnerstobenefitfromopportunities offeredbyBCTGGroup

Gain newskillsand earn as youlearn

Youcan startanapprenticeship whether you’re starting your career, want achange in career or you’re upskilling in your currentjob.

An apprenticeship is ajob with training andthe chance to gain qualifications.

As with anyjob,anapprentice gets paid,whiletakingpartinformalon-the-jobtrainingand study forrelevantqualificationslinkedto theirrole. Qualificationsare paid forbythe employer so apprentices do notpay anything towardstheir qualifications.

Marcus Nicholls, agas apprentice on placementwithheatingmanufacturerViessmann in Telford, said:“My apprenticeship hasgiven me an opportunitytoexplorewhat Ienjoy most,todealwithcustomersdirectly, andthe practicalexperience hashelpedmegrowup andintomyrolereallyquickly by giving me lots more responsibility than otherpeopleinmyposition elsewhere.”

Dudley College of Technology offers adiverse rangeofapprenticeshipscovering accountancy, hairdressing,construction, engineering, earlyyears, children and education, health andsocialcare, hospitalityand catering,motor ve-

hicle, sports andleisure andmany popularapprenticeships forbusiness such as business administration,customerservices, teamleadingand management

APPRENTICESHIP OR UNIVERSITY?

At university,you’llspecialise in aspecificareaofacademicstudy

Do you want

Apprenticeshipshowever, arework-basedtrainingprogrammeswhere you’lllearn practicalskillsina working environment andyou canstill achieveadegree qualification throughanapprenticeship

Oneofthe main differencesbetweenanapprenticeshipand studying at university is you can“earn

earn while

learn?

applyfor positionsinthe future, climbing thecareerladderand setting you apartfromthose with little experience Forsome students, this is the perfectbalance of learning work-relatedskills, studying andearning money.

Former apprentice Luke Hipkiss completedhis apprenticeship and waspromotedaftersuccessfully achievingaHNC in Engineeringat Dudley Collegeand then graduated with a first-classhonours degree in Mechanical EngineeringatBirmingham City University

Luke said:“Optingfor an apprenticeship enabledmetoget auniversity degree,without having thedebt of university fees loomingover my head

“I wasalso able to buymy first home at theage of 24 andlookforward to abrightcareerand future.”

DISCOVERAPPRENTICESHIPS

whileyou learn”,and youremployer will be fundingyourstudy,sono university debt!

With an apprenticeship,you earn moneywhile you studyyourprofessionatDudleyCollege.Youracademic studywill directly support thepractical experience you getin theworkplace andyou’llgaina relevant qualification that will help you

If you arecurrently lookingfor acareerchangeorjuststarting out, Dudley Collegecurrently has alarge number of vacanciesthat couldbeyournextsteptosuccess

To find outmoreand talk to the apprenticeship experts, visitthe Open DayonSaturday, March12 from 10am to 2pm. n Register foryourplace: www dudleycol.ac.uk

degrees or honours degrees.

• Get paid foryour holidays -Apprentices are entitled to the same benefits as employees including holidaypay and sickpay

• Fast-track your career -Often Apprentices can move up the career ladder quickly.This is because theygain on-the-job experience with aqualification to match.

If youare currentlylooking foracareer changeor just starting out, we currentlyhavealargenumber of vacancies that could be your next step to success.

MarcusNicholls is agas apprentice at aTelford firm Dudley Collegeoffersarange of apprenticeships