ES Apprenticeships Feb 2023

APPRENTICESHIPS

PTPpromises commitment to excellence in training and development

PerformanceThrough People is one of theleading providersofapprenticeshipsand training programmes in theWestMidlands.

PTP, part of theBCTGGroup, supports employers, individuals andcommunities by deliveringapprenticeships, bespokecommercial courses andarange of government funded trainingprogrammesto suit theneedsofits customers.

Oneofmanyexamples is Meg Jones (pictured),who is an apprentice with FionaCorkSaddles inTelford,learningher saddle making tradeatthe WalsallLeather Skills Centre,aproject runbyPTP in partnershipwiththe Saddlers Company Charitable Fund

RobColbourne OBE, chiefexecutive of PTPsaid: “Weare committedtoproviding excellenttraining anddevelopment forbothlearners andcompanies,delivered by our highly competentspecialist staff.

“Weare very proudtobean award-winningtrainingprovider over many years, with hundreds of ourlearnerswinningawards, andmanyemployers working in partnershipwithusalso winning awards

“PTP is an experiencedand qualityproviderofawiderange of trainingsolutions forindividuals andemployers

“Whether it’s assistance in fillingavacancy, findingemployment, upskilling,acustomisedcourse or thenextstage of alifelonglearning journey, we arecommitted to offeringan outstandingservice.”

IoTdeliveringhigherapprenticeships

TheBlack Country & MarchesInstitute of Technology in Dudley delivers high-quality, higher-level technical qualificationsincluding apprenticeshipsinfour specialist growth areas.

As ahub of innovationand world-leading technological advancements, theIoT bridgesthe skillsgap,respondstobusiness needs,providesareal-worldlearningexperienceand createsunrivalled talent

Manufacturingand engineering

TheBlackCountry is renowned forits manufacturingand engineeringexcellence. Followinginthe footstepsofits industrial legends, whetheritbedesigning partsofan electric car, maintainingrobotic machines or machining newmaterials, thereare many interesting andexpanding career opportunities

Britain’smanufacturers areentering anew era. Technologies such as automation,artificialintelligenceand the“fourth industrial revolution”are helpingboost productivity, streamline production andallow businesses to become more creative.

Medicalengineering and healthcare

Medicalengineering referstothe processofcheckingmedical equipment to make sureit’sworking properly andissafetouse.There is ashortage of qualified engineers in theNHS andcompanies that design,repairand maintain electronic medicaldevices andequipment for the health service which use a vast rangeofmedical equipment,

rangingfromsimpledevices such as nebulisers fortreatingrespiratory patients, throughtosophisticated radiotherapy linear accelerators

Modern construction methodologies

Construction is amajor sector of theUKeconomy employingin excess of 2.93 million people in theUK, anddemandfor skilled construction professionals continues. Modern construction methods

allowparts of abuild to be designed,planned,manufacturedand pre-assembledoff site in afactory TheBCMIoTworks with leading construction companiestodeliver skillsdevelopment

Digitaltechnologies

Digitaltechnologyiseverywhere andhas transformedmodernlife andischangingthe world.Technology is needed in almost everyjob from financialservicestohealth-

care,creativeindustriestosports. Allbusinesses need digitalskills andknowledge to surviveand with theUKtechnologyindustrydoublinginthe last 2years,it’sathrivingsectortobeapartof.

If you arelooking foracareer change or just starting out, find out more andtalktoour expertsat the open dayonSaturday, 11 March, 10am-2pm.Registernow:www blackcountryandmarchesiot.ac.uk

Theinstituteofferstrainingfor apprenticesinthe latesttechnology

Theinstitute’sapprentices canbepartofanexciting future

Earn andlearn on an apprenticeship

Youcan startanapprenticeship whetheryou’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,an apprentice gets paid,whiletakingpartinformalon-the-job training andstudy forrelevant qualificationslinkedto theirrole.

AnnieGuy,who is progressing hercareertomanagementlevel, said:“When IleftschoolIdidn’t want to go to university andget into debt.Iwanted tocontinuelearning whileearning awage, so an apprenticeship wasthe obviouschoice. I securedabusinessadministration apprenticeship at Dudley Metropolitan BoroughCouncil andIhaven’t looked back.IachievedmyLevel 2 and3inbusinessadministration, whichresultedinmy promotionand permanentjob as business administration assistant. I’mprogressing my career by undertakingateam leader apprenticeship.”

Apprenticeshiporuniversity?

At university,you’llspecialise in aspecificareaofacademicstudy Apprenticeshipshowever,are work-

basedtrainingprogrammeswhere you’lllearn practicalskillsina working environmentand you can still achievea degree qualification Oneofthe main differencesbetweenanapprenticeshipand studying at university is you can“earn whileyou learn”,and youremployer will be fundingyourstudy,sono university debt.

With an apprenticeship,you earn moneywhile you studyyourpro-

fessionatDudleyCollege.Youracademic studywill directly support thepractical experience you get in theworkplace,and you’ll gain a relevant qualification that will help you applyfor positionsinthe future, climbingthe career ladderand setting youapart from thosewithlittle experience.For some students, this is theperfect balanceoflearning work-relatedskills, studying and earningmoney.

Former apprentice,LukeHipkiss completedhis apprenticeship and waspromotedafter successfully achievinga HNCinengineering at Dudley Collegeand then graduated with a first-classhonours degree in mechanical engineeringat Birmingham City University.Luke said:“Optingfor an apprenticeship enabledmetoget auniversity degree,without having thedebt of university fees loomingovermy

head.I wasalso able to buymy first home at theage of 24 andlookforward to abrightcareerfuture.”

Discoverapprenticeships

If youare currentlylooking for acareerchangeorjuststarting out, find outmoreand talk to our apprenticeship expertsat theopen dayonSaturday, March11,10am2pm.

Register foryourplace: www dudleycol.ac.uk

Thecollege offers careersinmanysectors including construction

As well as learning skillsinengineering,apprentices areearningawage

Earn whileyou learn with localemployers

Collegeteaming up with McAuliffe Group

City of Wolverhampton Collegehas joined forces with Bilston-basedenvironmentalcontractor McAuliffeGroup to offer anew apprenticeship to youngpeoplewanting to work in theconstruction industry.

The15-month Level2 construction plantoperative apprenticeship combinesstudyingatcollege with learning on-the-job,enablingapprentices to developthe necessaryskillsand knowledge required to workin thesectorand gain practicalexperience on live constructionsites across theregion.

Thetrainingschemecovers operatingand maintaininga rangeofplant equipment –suchasexcavators, rideon rollersand forward-tippingdumpers– andhow site plansand work programmes aredeveloped,aswellas health, safety,welfare andenvironmental requirements on site McAuliffehas four apprenticeson theschemewho currentlyattendthe college’sWellingtonRoadcampus, Bilston, oneday aweekand benefit from itsindustry-standard training facilities,including aconstructionsite equipped with smallplant equipment, enabling them to developskillsinarealisticworking environment.

Apprentice Bonnie Hill, aged 18,

said:“I’ve always wanted to workin construction,but wasn’t surewhat wasavailable to me at 18

“I wassopleased when Iheard about this apprenticeship,because Icould startlearningall theskillsI need straightaway. I’malready operating aride-on roller aftergetting my ticket this month.”

MichaelDixon,assistant principalat thecollege,said: “Weare delighted to be working in partnershipwithMcAuliffeGroup to teach theirapprentices theskillstheyneed to move straight into jobs in thesectorand have successfulfuturecareersinthe construction industry.”

Fordetails of theconstructionplant operativeapprenticeshipgotowww wolvcoll.ac.uk/demographic/apprentices/category/construction-apprenticeships

Providingskillsfor thenextgeneration

City of WolverhamptonCouncilis supporting newapprentices with skills forlife, helpingthemtodevelop their career pathwayand to secure permanent positions.

Choosing

During 2022 thecouncil recruited 48 newapprentices acrossvarious council serviceareas includinglicensing, pensions,customerservices, print services,legal,regeneration, business support, educationand finance.

Some of thenew andpreviousapprenticeshavereallyexcelledprogressing into permanentemployment, with sevenofthese newapprentices alreadygaining permanentroles within thecouncil.And this year is looking to be anotherpromising year with apprenticeship recruitment. In January alone, thecouncil hasrecruited six apprenticeswitha furthereight in the recruitmentprocess

EmilyCastle, aged 19, started her apprenticeship with thecouncil’s LibraryServicesstraight from school Emilysaid: “Starting my firstjob straightfromschoolwas really quite daunting,but my newcolleaguesat thecouncil andespeciallywithinthe LibraryService have made it easier for me by beingsoinclusive andaccommodating

“There is always someone willing to sitdownwithme andhelpmetolearn newskills. My role is really varied, from helpingpeoplewithbooks to supportingcustomers with IT whichhas

opened up lots of learning opportunities formetodevelop.”

Thecouncil hasalso transferred it’s apprenticeship levy to help anumber of localsmall to medium-sized businesses to recruitapprentices

Residentsofany agelooking for apprenticeshipsortrainingopportunities with city employers, canvisit wolvesworkbox.comorcallWolvesAt

TheMcAuliffe Groupapprentices

Council apprenticeEmilyCastle

Startyourcareerasanapprentice

Apprenticeships arefor everyone andthey’re agreat waytostart, change or developyour career.

Employersworking with Kidderminster Collegerealise this too andhaveshowcased theirsupport with theirrecruitment andtrainingofpeoplefromall ages and backgroundswithinHerefordshire, Worcestershireand Stourbridge GeorgiaSmith, talent operations co-ordinatoratCommunity Housingwho employ anumberofapprenticeswithKidderminster College, explains:“We recognise thevalue that they bringtoour business –freshideas,a willingness to learn, andnew ways of working.”

Theneedfor astable, forward-thinkingworkforce hasnever been more prevalent.ApprenticeshipsatKidderminster Collegeare providingopportunities forall to be able to start, change or develop theircareerjourney

Ollie, apropertymaintenance operativeatElmfieldRudolf Steiner School,enthused: “The apprenticeship hasdeveloped my confidencebecause there’salwayspeople around to askfor help andadvice. I’m also learning more andthere’s lotsofdifferent things to do.”

Kidderminster-basedemploy-

er Redspeed Internationalare no stranger to theroleapprentices play in thedevelopmentoftheir organisation

Afterwinningthe WorcestershireApprenticeships Awardfor apprenticeship employer of theyear in 2022,David Harris, financial controller,said: “Werecognise the importance andincrediblebenefit apprenticeshipshavebroughtto ourorganisation andwe’ll continue

to builduponthissuccess fora sustainable future.”

Theworld of work canbedauntingbut an apprenticeship matches keen learners to supportive employers, such as Jordan,an installation andmaintenance electrician apprentice at Impact Electrical: “They’re friendly andreallyhelpful. It’s agood companytoworkfor, they’realwaysonhandtohelpif needed.”

Inductionprogrammes, both at thecollege andthe apprentice’s employer,helpintroducew apprenticestotheir course andthe world of work with tailored,bespoke programmes.

Kidderminster Collegepride themselves on deliveringaprofessional servicetoemployers to best meet theirrecruitment needs.

Level3 apprenticeshipsinbusiness administration,accounting

andteamleading providemembers of ourlocal community to beginand developtheir careersinthe world of professional services acrossarange of industries.Kidderminster College also provides people with the opportunitytobegin anddevelop theircareerinconstructiontrades

Whetheryou’reanemployer or a buddingapprentice, contactKidderminsterCollege andwe’ll help you beginyourapprenticeshipjourney

An apprenticeship is agreat waytostart acareerKidderminster Collegeisagreat placetodoanapprenticeship

Apprenticeships– agreat waytostart

It’s arealjob,with hands-on experience,a salary andthe chance to trainwhileyou work. You’re treatedjustlike allthe otheremployees, with acontractofemployment andholiday leave.

If you’re16orover,you canbecome an apprentice as long as you spendatleast 50 percentofyour working hoursinEngland forthe duration of theapprenticeshipand you arenot in full-timeeducation

Your apprenticeship cantake betweenone andsix yearstocomplete,depending on whichapprenticeship you choose,whatlevel it’s at,and yourpreviousexperience

Popular

From engineeringtonursing and from lawtodesign–thousands of apprenticeshipsare availableevery year in avastrange of industries andcareers.Apprenticeships are oftenapopular option forpeople who don’twanttohavethe worry of studentdebthanging over them in thefuture–and want to getahead startontheir future career

Advanced apprenticeshipsare equivalent to twoA-levelpasses. To be accepted you should have five GCSEs or more.Higherapprenticeshipsrange betweenLevel 4,

whichisthe equivalent of one year of higher educationstudy,toLevel 6, whichisthe equivalent of aBachelor’s degree.Theycover around 75 industries andmorethan100 different jobroles,ranging from legal services to bankingand engineering. Higher anddegreeapprentices typically splittheir time between collegeoruniversity andthe workplace.

An apprenticeship canleadtoa long-termjob afterthe initialcon-

tract is completed. Youcan also pick up life-long skills that will be useful andadaptable to anyindustry. The wholetimeyou will be making a goodnamefor yourself andbuilding professional contacts, whichwill benefityou greatlyinthe future

As with otherapprenticeships, students areemployedthroughout andthe cost of thefeesare shared betweenthe Government andthe employer. Many employerschoose to paysubstantially more thanthe

apprenticeship minimumwagefor thoseunder 19

As well as having many benefits forapprentices,the schemeisalso popularwithemployers. Many see it as an investment because they canguide andtrain theirrecruits to have thespecificskillsrequired forthe industry andensuretheyare reliable membersofthe workforce Employerswantanapprentice whoispolite, punctual andreliable. They also want aquick learn-

er whocan follow instructions and advice andsomeone whocan think on theirfeetto fixany problems thatcropup. Firmswillbelooking forateamplayerwho will fitinto theexistingworkforce well.Their apprentice will need to have good people skills, especially if therole involves dealingwithcustomers or thepublic.

Once you find therightapprenticeship,you will usuallyneed aCV anda coverlettertoapply.Some employersmay askapplicantsto fill outanapplication form instead of sendinga CV.These maybepaper-basedoronline formswhich typically list questionsfor theapplicant to complete

Research

Although many employerslook forsimilar traitsinanapprentice, it’s importanttoresearchthe company andgaina better understandingofwhattheyare lookingfor becauseeachemployer candiffer. During theapplication process, applicants areoftenasked to demonstrate how they useessential skills. Hobbiesand extracurricular activitiesare agreat waytoshowcase these skills andexperiences.

It’s agood idea to applyfor afew apprenticeshipsat atime. This increases yourchances andmeans you’renot waitingfor aresponse from one employer n Formoreinformation visitapprenticeships.gov.uk

Kick-start career as aHEX apprentice

Do youknowsomeone interested in starting acareerinengineering,weldingorgraphics?

TheHEX Groupishostinganapprenticeship open eveningonThursday, February 16,between 5.30pm and 7.30pm at theGroup headquarters in Hixon, near Stafford,tohighlightapprenticeship opportunities.

TheHEX Groupispassionateabout itsapprenticeshipscheme, whichis whythey’re continually findingnew ways to make theirprogrammesexciting, dynamicand relevant to today’s fast-paced worldofwork.

Duetothe ongoingsuccess of the scheme,The HEXGroup hasexpanded theopportunitiesavailable across severaldisciplines,areflection of the commitmenttodeliveringevenfurther opportunitiesfor young people startingtheir careers.

Sincethe fully-accredited apprenticeship schemewas launched in 2010 it hassupported more than150 apprenticesthrough theprogramme.They areproud to have offeredall graduates arolewithinBri-StorSystems, Alpha ManufacturingorHEX Graphics Groupapprenticeshipmanager Will Davies-Hill said,“We continue to developorschemeyear-on-yearbecause we seethe enormous potentialapprenticesbring to ourGroup.Manyof ourapprentices go on to furthertheir

HEXGrouphas an openevening

careersinone of ourbusinesses, and thosewithexceptionally high levels of driveand determinationgo on to achieveaLevel 4qualification.We’ll even sponsorsomeofour graduate apprenticestogo on to earn afulldegree.

“Ifyou’reinterested in arewarding andexcitingcareer, come alongtoour apprenticeship open evening.”

Book your placeatwww.thehexgroup.co.uk/join-the-hex-group/apprenticeship-open-evening/

Thousands of apprenticeships areavailable everyyearinavastrange of industries andcareers

Join aleadingelectricity distributor

National Grid ElectricityDistribution is the electricity distribution networkoperatorfor theMidlands, theSouth West of Englandand SouthWales.

It is responsiblefor thepower lines, poles, transformers andsubstations that deliver electricityto customers’homes andbusinesses

With net-zerotargets revolutionisingthe waythatpeopleheat, light andfueltheir homesand vehicles, therehas never been amoreexcitingtimetojointhe industry.Right now, NGED is lookingfor 120talented, enthusiastic individualsto join itsranks as part of its2023 apprenticeship recruitmentcampaign.

Joining aworkforce of 6,700employees, theapprenticeshipscheme is designed to give youall thetrainingand supportyou need to develop into an accomplished craftsperson Craftapprenticeships take twoto threeyearstocompleteand applicantscan expect an excellentrange of benefits includingcompetitive salary ratesthatincreasewithexpertise as well as in-depth training anddevelopment.

The first12weeks arespent at one of NGED’sworld-class train-

ingcentres. Theapprenticeship includes supporttogainaCity&

Guilds Level 2qualification in electrical engineering, periodsofonthe jobtrainingand developmentand learning from an experiencedand qualified craftsperson. On completion,apprentices progress into a qualified craftsperson role working on either overhead lines, theunderground cablenetwork or maintainingequipment insubstations

Readytopower up yourcareer? Therolewould suit adventurous individualswho enjoy working outdoorsinall weathers.You will need excellentcommunication skills, safety awarenessand relish the challengeofahands-onpractical job.

Forfurther detailsand minimum entrycriteria, visit: www.careers nationalgrid.co.uk.NGEDwill be taking applications to February 12

Bring energy

Overhead linespersonapprentice Conor Rogers says:“Thething Ilove about theapprenticeshipisyou’re learning somethingnew everyday.

Eachday is differenttothe last and thetrainingyou getaspart of the apprenticeship is phenomenal. The advice I’dgiveanyonethinkingof applying forthe apprenticeship is go forit! Ireallyenjoy thecamaraderie, beingoutdoorsand supporting each othertobecome afully qual-

ified linesperson, jointeror fitter.”

LeeWallace,NationalGriddirectorofSHE, trainingand engineeringpolicy, said:“We arelooking for talented,highlymotivated people to join theNGEDapprenticeship scheme.Our people areatthe heart of ourbusinesssuccess andour apprenticesoftoday will be ourskilled staffoftomorrow –safelydelivering outstandinglevelsofcustomerservice andoperational performance.”

Overhead linesperson apprentice Conor Rogers

LeeWallace,National Grid directorofSHE,trainingand engineering policy

T-levels –new waytodevelop careers

Is your childleaving school this academic year,but not sure of theirnextsteps?

Have they considered aT-level at SouthStaffordshireCollege?

What is aT-level?

T-levels areabrand-new twoyear qualification whichcombines classroomstudy with an extended industry placement to ensurethe learnergains theknowledge and skillstheyneed to move into skilled work, an apprenticeship or further studyuponcompletionofthe T-level.Typically,T-level learners will spendaround80per cent of their time learning in theclassroom at college, andthe other20per cent of theirtimeonanindustryplacement,allowingthemtoput newly learnt skills in theclassroom into practice in arealworksetting

Equivalent to three Alevels

OneT-level is equivalent to three Alevelsand thereforethe same number of UCAS points should your childwishtoprogressintohigher educationuponcompletionofthe qualification.Uponcompletionof theT-level qualification learners will receiveanationallyrecognised certificate whichwill show theoverallgrade achieved whichcould be a pass,merit,distinction or distinction*.

Createdwithbusinesses

Employers have been heavilyinvolved with thecreationofT-levels to help ensure that learners develop thetechnical knowledge andskills demanded by employersand the widerindustryuponcompletionof theT-levelprogramme

Thanks to theindustryplacement,which is aminimum of 45 days,T-level learners will have a valuable opportunitytogain first-

hand experience of what it’s like to workwithinthe industry in areal career

What T-levels areavailable at SouthStaffordshire College?

From September,South StaffordshireCollege will be offering a T-levelineducation andchildcare anda T-levelinhealthfromTamworth College. However,the college does have planstooffer abroader rangeofT-levels from 2024

Thecollege is working closely with localemployerstoensurethat students will be able to gain quality industry placements within their chosen fields

If you workat, or know an employer whomay be able to help with offering ahigh-quality industry placementfor T-levellearners, get intouch directly with thecollege by emailing:enquiries@southstaffs. ac.uk

Take your career to the next level ...T-LEVEL!

How canyou find outmore?

To find outmoreinformation about theT-levelsonoffer at South StaffordshireCollege andtoapply foracoursestartingthisSeptember, visit: southstaffs.ac.uk/t-levels Visitthe collegeatits open dayon Saturday,March 11,between 10am and1pm to take alookaroundand chat with ourfriendlyand helpful staff. To pre-book aplace to attend visit: southstaffs.ac.uk/open-days

Are you aschool leaver aged 16 –

–19? Do you want to get valuable experience in the workplace whilst studying for your course? T-levels could be an option for you!

Equivalent to 3Alevels, aT-Level focuses on vocational skills and includes an industry placement of at least 45 days. T-level students spend 80% of their course in their learning environment and 20% in their industry placement, where they can put their skills into action.

From September 2023, South Staffordshire College will be offering T-levels in:

To find outmorevisit: southstaffs.ac.uk/tlevels

Thecollege is to offeraT-Level in education andchildcareThe collegeoffersachancetostart acareer in health andsocialcare

KUKA offers careersinengineering

KUKA’s apprenticeship programmeprovidesa productive andeffective vehicle throughwhich theBlack Country-based manufacturer of industrialrobots, automation systemsand friction welding factory automation cangrowtalent, anddevelop amotivated,skilled andqualified workforce.

Operatingatatimewhenthe

skillsshortagehas reachedcritical levels acrossthe UK manufacturinglandscape,KUKA’sestablished apprenticeship programmeisenabling the firm to future proofits workforce

Experience

It is also mitigatingthe impact of an ageing employee dynamic, but also enabling youngsterstogain invaluable experience within an industrial environmentand pave the waytoasuccessfulcareerwithone of theworld leadersinindustrial automation

KUKA UK recently achieved a gold ‘excellent employer’standard forits employee apprenticeships.

It wasone of the firstengineering andmanufacturing companiesin theUK to receivethe standard Theengineering apprenticeships employer kitemark hasbeendeveloped by NextGenMakersand Make UK to recognise thoseUKcompanies whoachieve abestpractice benchmark, andalsoendorse them as exemplaryemployers of apprentices.

DavidRose, head of qualityat

KUKA UK,explained:“As abusiness,werecognise theimportance of mitigatinggapsinknowledge transfer streams, andbridgingthe skillsdeficitasour legacy workforce reachretirementage,byattracting newtalentand newskillsintoengineering.

“KUKAUKhas an established apprenticeship program, through whichweare able to deliver industryleading placements to students,

Helptoshapethefuture: contributetowards asustainable, human-centric and resilient manufacturing industry, in the UK

The futureofmanufacturing is one that embracesconnectivity: smartfactories,theIoTanddigital tools aredriving anindustry revolution, bridging thegap between the physical andvirtual worlds.

With an apprenticeship at KUKA,you canhelp toshape industry4.0. in the fields of robotics, automation &engineering.

www.kuka.com

in partnershipwithseveral localacademic institutions.”

As amanufacturerofindustrial robots andsystems with adiverse apprenticeship offering,KUKA boasts ahostofmanufacturing and engineeringskillsinroboticsand friction welding, andwebelieve having asuccessfulapprenticeship scheme is crucialtothe future of ourbusiness.

Mr Rose concluded: “Weare im-

mensely proudofthe opportunities that we areabletomakeavailable to youngsters, andofthe apprentices themselves “KUKAshall do allinits power to grow them as individuals, and also to developtheir knowledge and skills.

“Weare by no meansblind to the impact that they shallinturnhave on ourbusiness.

“Our apprenticesare ourfuture.”

Thebusiness hasachievedthe gold ‘excellent employer’ standard KUKA’s apprenticeship programme is helping futureproofits workforce

Seethe biggerpicture with Sandwell College

Sandwell Collegeiscelebrating success during this National Apprenticeship Week 2023.

We have some amazingapprentices on programme, includingMaria Nieves Smith.

Mariahas been working towards herLevel 3businessadministration qualification with NHSMidlands andLancashireCommissioning SupportUnit.

Sandwell hashigh ambitionsfor allofits apprenticesstudyingtobe business administrators,engineeringtechnicians, dentalnurses, accidentrepairspecialists,healthcare supportworkers,constructionoperatives and teachingassistants.

Opportunities

Thereare so many opportunities fornew apprenticestojoinmarket leadingcompanies,where you’llreceivementoring andguidancefrom management andyourcollege assessor.

It’s no surprise so many of our apprenticesare positive about their futureswhenyou seehow appren-

ticeship programmes help individuals developthe skills andknowledgerequiredfor arewardingand successfulcareer.

Dedicated staffprepare apprenticeswellfor theirnextsteps, which is whyalmostall remain in employment at theend of theirapprenticeship

Candidates

Establishedcompanies with great reputationsworkhandinhandwith us to attractthe rightcandidates forawhole rangeofvariedapprenticeship vacancies.

We have newlivevacancies coming on stream forjobswhich combineworkand training– with dynamicemployers from house builders,solicitors, logistics firms anddentalpractices to accident repair centres. You’ll earn awage, developyourskills, updateyourCV andexperience, andget an early startonthe career ladder.

You’ll get first-hand knowledge andsupport from ourcomprehensive instructor-guidedcourses, whileyou studytobecome aqualified professional andcompleteyour

qualification,learningfromsome of thebestin yourindustry.

So if you need advice on what employers look forincandidates like you andhow best to showcaseyour skillsand abilities in an interview, we’vegot you covered

By talkingtousyou’lldiscover valuable insighttoensure you succeed in landingthe apprenticeship you want,and getusefultips forworking andlearninginareal-world environmentonyourjourneytoyourdream career

Wellbeing

Sandwell’s supportive environment enablesyou to focusonand make progress in yourlearning, with yourworkplace wellbeing rightatthe topofour list.

Star Awards areheldannually to celebrateall of ourapprentices’ success

Next year you couldbeone of our Stars!

Checkour live vacanciesnow, register yourapplication or join ourtalentpoolat sandwell.ac.uk/ apprenticeships/apprenticeship-vacancies

Sophie is aconstruction apprentice with high ambitionsfor hercareer

Realiseyourfull potentialwithNSCG

Newcastleand Stafford Colleges Groupisthe region’s largestapprenticeship provider and currentlyhas around 1,500apprentices on programmesacrossa variety of sectors including construction,engineeringand manufacturingthrough to business management,logistics andmarketing.

Enrolling on an apprenticeship with oneofNSCG’spartner employersacrossStaffordshire and theWestMidlandsmeans you can learnvital practicaland technical skillsin ahands-on-environment and‘earn as you learn’ whilst workingtowards anationallyrecognised qualification

If you’reconsidering an apprenticeship when youprogressfrom yourcurrent course,friendlyand knowledgeablestaff in TheApprenticeship HubatNSCGare on hand to help.You canchatthrough your options, gethelpwriting yourCV andpickupinterview hintsand tips whilst they help you find theright apprenticeship

Jane Tunnicliff, groupheadof employer engagement andtraining,

said:“Apprenticeshipsprovide an opportunitytostart acareerinan industry of interest andare agreat path forlearnersthatwanttogain vitalexperiencewhileworking towardsarecognisedqualification

“Apprentices aresupported by thecollege andexperienced work colleagues within theirplaceof work, many of whom also started as apprenticesthemselves, andasa result they arewelllookedafter and

given excellentsupport throughout theirprogramme becoming great assets to thecompanies andindustriestheyworkfor

“Around90per cent of ourapprenticesalso go on to secure permanent employment.”

If you’relooking forapractical routeintoanindustryyou love, come andspeaktoThe Apprenticeship Hubto find outhow they can help you land yourdream career

That’s exactlywhatRachelCrawshaw,apprenticeatDJH Mitten Clarke did. Shesaid: “I studiedmy ALevelsat NSCG so Iknewa lot aboutThe Apprenticeship Huband Iknewitwould be agreat fitfor me to do my studyhours here.The idea of ‘earnasyou learn’ really appealed to me as Icould getpaid whilst gettingonthe job experience andstill gain aqualification which ticked allthe boxes.”

As theregion’sleading education andtrainingprovider, we work collaboratively with more than 850 employersthroughoutStaffordshireand theWestMidlandstofosterlong-term relationshipstosupport both learnerdevelopment and business growth andprosperity

To find outmore, visitnscg. ac.uk/apprenticeshipsorcall01785 275660 to speaktoThe Apprenticeship Hub.

An apprentice at Jodrell Bank

Thecollegesoffer apprenticeships in construction

Developing theskillsfor life in thecity

Wolverhampton Homes is an arm’slengthmanagementorganisation that managesand looks aftermorethan21,000 homesonbehalfofthe City of Wolverhampton Council.

Thecompany is committed to making thecityanevenbetter placetolive,providing good quality homesin safe,welcoming neighbourhoods.ItisbelievedthateveryoneinWolverhampton Homescan play theirpartinmakingthathappen–withthe rightsupport

WolverhamptonHomesoffersopportunitiesinits property services division forbricklaying,carpentry, electrical,plumbingand gasapprenticeships. An apprenticeship typically lastsbetween twoand four years, with apprenticesgainingpractical hands-on experience alongsideformalcollege learning, giving them thebestofbothworlds andasolid groundingintheir trade

LastyearWolverhamptonHomes recruitedmoreapprentices whoare hoping to follow in thefootsteps of plumbing andgas apprentice Connor Smith. Connor joined thecompany in 2021 andwon theproperty and construction apprentice of the year at theExpress &Starawards

last year forhis commitmenttotop qualityworkand greatcustomer service.

Lara, firstyearapprenticefrom Whitmore Reans,said: “I’vebeen interested in carpentryand plumbingfor as longasI canremember,so wasexcited at thechancetobecome an apprentice with Wolverhampton Homes.

“I getonwellwithmymentorand

I’mlearninglots–not just aboutthe trade, butabout how to adapttodifferent people andsituations in the workplace.I’m feelingreallypositive andI’m excitedtosee wheremy apprenticeship takesme.”

Ravelisinhis firstyearofa plumbing anddomestic heating apprenticeship:“Sincestarting my apprenticeship Ihaven’t looked back.Iattendcollege once aweek,

Earlycareersopportunities

Competitivesalaryplusattractivebenefits

Ourearlycareersprogrammesarehelpinglocalpeopletogetoninlife throughcombiningformalstudyandon-the-jobtraining.

Joinusasamanagementtraineeoranapprenticeandyou’llbenefitfrom astructuredtrainingprogrammewhichwillsupportyoutolearnnewskills andputthemstraightintoaction.Everyonedeservestoliveinasafeand decenthome,soyou’llbedevelopingyourcareerinasectorwhereyour workmattersandyoucanreallymakeadifference

Whetheryou’releavingfull-timeeducation,lookingtoupskillorthinking aboutachangeindirection,findoutmoreaboutstartingyourcareer withoneofthecity’sbiggestemployers

Registeryourinteresttoday.

www.wolverhamptonhomes.org.uk/apprentices

andthe rest of thetimeI’m gaining practicalexperience.”

WolverhamptonHomesisrecruiting more newapprentices and management traineesthisyear, as part of itscommitmenttothe City of WolverhamptonCouncil’sdrive to reduce youth unemployment and create newopportunitiesfor young people in thecity.

ShaunAldis, chiefexecutive of

WolverhamptonHomessaid: “We arealwayslooking forgreat people to join us, andasone of thelargest employersinthe city,westriveto supportthe City of Wolverhampton Council in developing localtalent–it is centraltoour missionofhelpingpeopleget on in life. We have colleagues within WH whojoinedus on apprenticeshipsmanyyears ago whohavegoneontohaverewardingand fulfilling careersand we’ve gained some real talent throughour apprentice programmes.

“Eachapprenticeispairedwith an experiencedmentorwho supportsthemand monitorstheir progress, helpingthemtoput their formal learning into practice,but we also want to hear from them –sharingtheir ideasfor enhancing what we do

“We’re committed to driving growth andinnovationthrough our apprenticeship programme, and deliveringgreat outcomesfor our customers.Whether you’reanexperienced tradesperson, ahousing professional or just starting out, there’saplacefor you at WolverhamptonHomes.”

This year’s apprenticeship recruitmentwill launch laterin 2023 Register yourinterestand be the firsttohearwhenthe rolesgolive: https://www.wolverhamptonhomes org.uk/careers/

“I’velearntso manynewskills insuchashorttime andI’mproudthat mymentortrustsme todoagoodjob.”

Someofthe Wolverhampton Homes apprentices with city councilleaderCouncillor IanBrookfield, centre

Collegeshowcasingits apprentices

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

Apprenticeshipsare aperfect option if you’releaving school andare keen to getstraight into employment,whilelearningnew skills, earningmoneyand getting aqualification.Manyapprentices remain with theiremployer at theend of theirapprenticeship, meaningyou will be on acareerpathwithlotsof future potential.

Apprenticeshipsaren’tjustfor school leavers, however,and they canbea fantasticway of upskillingorchangingcareerifyou’re an adultlearner.They’re available from Level2 up to graduate level, meaningtheyhaverealvalue and prospectsfor alllearners.

HalesowenCollege offers awide rangeofapprenticeshipoptions from Level2to5inexcitingareas such as digitalmarketing, pharmacy services,and laboratory scientist.Our apprenticeship teamwill guideyou throughthe application process, andsupport you with interview andemployability skills

ChristianVivashcompleted a Level3business administration apprenticeship at HalesowenCollege andsecured apermanent,full-time position with hisemployer.Christian said:“Completinganapprenticeship with HalesowenCollege hasbeenlifechanging. Notonly diditgive me theopportunitytoretrain anda move into adifferent industry that better suited my home life, it hasalso allowedmetowork

towardsanationallyrecognised qualification.Since completing my apprenticeship,Ihavebeenemployed on afull-timecontract,had a promotion to amanagerialposition andhopefullyIwill be progressing onto adegreelevel apprenticeship.”

TLevelscould also be agreat option if you’relooking to study alongsideaworkplacement. These courses runfor twoyears andhave been developedwithemployersand

businesses,sotheymeetthe needs of industry whilepreparing you for work, furthertrainingand study. You’ll have time learning in the classroom butyou’llalso spenda minimum20per cent of thetimein an industry placement, developing thespecialistskillsand knowledge foranoccupationorcareer.

ALevel or vocational programmes arealso an excellentoptionand we offerawiderange of courses forall

levels, have excellentpassrates and ourstudentsgoontoachieve fantastic things

Register forone of ouropen events to find outmoreabout your optionshttps://www.halesowen ac.uk/openevents/orcontact us usinglivechatonour website. Forupdates on thefantastic things ourstudents achieve, follow us @halesowencoll on Facebook, Twitter,Instagram andTikTok.

Christian Vivash hascompletedanapprenticeshipatthe collegeHalesowenCollege apprentice Georgiaisenjoying herstudies

Kick-start your career with Dudley BS

Areyou thinking about your next stepsfollowingschoolorcollege?

Or perhapsyou want to trysomethingdifferent andbuildonthe skillsyou alreadyhave? Well,we mayhavejustthe opportunityfor you

At Dudley Building Society, we arededicated to powering lifeby equippingour colleagues with the skillsand confidencetobuildtheir career –makingdreamsbecome reality.

As asociety,wehavebeenservingour localcommunities for165 years, andthatisasimportant to us nowasever before

Passionate

This meansweare passionate about providingopportunitiesfor thosestartingontheir career journey.

Through oursuccessfulapprenticeship programme, you will develop specialist knowledgeinall areas of financialservicesand buildyour personal skills through coaching andmentoring with ourpassionate teams.

With so many roleswithinthe society,yourapprenticeshipcould rangefromserving ourcustomers within ourbranches, with your Level2 financialservicescustom-

er services qualification through to becoming an IT assistantand completinga Level3 IT Supporttechnician.

Apprenticeshipsare notjustfor thosewho areleaving education butcan be an opportunityfor those of anyage whoare consideringa change in career.Buildingonskills that you alreadyhave, apprenticeshipsare agreat waytogaina qualification,start or even continue

yourcareerjourney andearnatthe same time

Ourcompetitive salaries and greatholiday,medical anddevelopmental benefits mean that we are agreat team to join.Weare also accredited by theSundayTimes as oneofthe ‘bestcompanies to work for’ andare oneofthe topcompanies to workfor in theMidlands. So do not just take ourwordfor it –Ethan,who startedhis career

with Dudley Building Societyasan apprentice within the financeteam, hassharedhis experience

“Myexperiencewiththe society hasbeennothing butpositive,I have been here around ayearand ahalfand ever sinceIjoined, Ifelt welcome andblendedinwiththe wider financeteamseamlessly

“Ever sincethenmydevelopment opportunitiescontinuetoincrease andhavealwaysfeltas though

Icould progress within my role

When Ijoinedstraight outofcollege,Iwas notsureonwhatIwanted to do andwhenthisopportunity came up,Ijumpedatitreallyand haven’t looked back since.” Exciting apprenticeship opportunities become availablethroughout theyear, so please register yourinterest,and find outmoreinformation at dudleybuildingsociety.co.uk/ about-us/careers/current-roles

Dudley Building Society is offering thestart to acareer Apprenticeshipsare agreatway to learn skills andbuild confidence