National Apprentiship Week - Feb 23

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 | EXPRESS & STAR

APPRENTICESHIPS

A 14 - PAGE COMMERCIAL SUPPLEMENT

PTP promises commitment to excellence in training and development Performance Through People is one of the leading providers of apprenticeships and training programmes in the West Midlands.

PTP, part of the BCTG Group, supports employers, individuals and communities by delivering apprenticeships, bespoke commercial courses and a range of government funded training programmes to suit the needs of its customers.

One of many examples is Meg Jones (pictured), who is an apprentice with Fiona Cork Saddles in Telford, learning her saddle making trade at the Walsall Leather Skills Centre, a project run by PTP in partnership with the Saddlers Company Charitable Fund.

Rob Colbourne OBE, chief executive of PTP said: “We are committed to providing excellent training and development for both learners and companies, delivered by our highly competent specialist staff.

“We are very proud to be an award-winning training provider over many years, with hundreds of our learners winning awards, and many employers working in partnership with us also winning awards.

“PTP is an experienced and quality provider of a wide range of training solutions for individuals and employers.

“Whether it’s assistance in filling a vacancy, finding employment, upskilling, a customised course or the next stage of a lifelong learning journey, we are committed to offering an outstanding service.”

NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP WEEK FEBRUARY 6 -12

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IoT delivering higher apprenticeships

The Black Country & Marches Institute of Technology in Dudley delivers high-quality, higher-level technical qualifications including apprenticeships in four specialist growth areas.

As a hub of innovation and world-leading technological advancements, the IoT bridges the skills gap, responds to business needs, provides a real-world learning experience and creates unrivalled talent.

Manufacturing and engineering The Black Country is renowned for its manufacturing and engineering excellence. Following in the footsteps of its industrial legends, whether it be designing parts of an electric car, maintaining robotic machines or machining new materials, there are many interesting and expanding career opportunities.

Britain’s manufacturers are entering a new era. Technologies such as automation, artificial intelligence and the “fourth industrial revolution” are helping boost productivity, streamline production and allow businesses to become more creative.

The institute offers training for apprentices in the latest technology

The institute’s apprentices can be part of an exciting future

Medical engineering and healthcare Medical engineering refers to the process of checking medical equipment to make sure it’s working properly and is safe to use. There is a shortage of qualified engineers in the NHS and companies that design, repair and maintain electronic medical devices and equipment for the health service which use a vast range of medical equipment,

allow parts of a build to be designed, planned, manufactured and pre-assembled off site in a factory.

The BCMIoT works with leading construction companies to deliver skills development.

Digital technologies Digital technology is everywhere and has transformed modern life and is changing the world. Technology is needed in almost every job from financial services to health-

ranging from simple devices such as nebulisers for treating respiratory patients, through to sophisticated radiotherapy linear accelerators.

Modern construction methodologies Construction is a major sector of the UK economy employing in excess of 2.93 million people in the UK, and demand for skilled construction professionals continues. Modern construction methods

care, creative industries to sports.

All businesses need digital skills and knowledge to survive and with the UK technology industry doubling in the last 2 years, it’s a thriving sector to be a part of.

If you are looking for a career change or just starting out, find out more and talk to our experts at the open day on Saturday, 11 March, 10am-2pm. Register now: www. blackcountryandmarchesiot.ac.uk

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 | EXPRESS & STAR

Earn and learn on an apprenticeship

You can start an apprenticeship whether you’re starting your career, want a change in career or you’re upskilling in your current job.

An apprenticeship is a job with training and the chance to gain qualifications.

As with any job, an apprentice gets paid, while taking part in formal on-the-job training and study for relevant qualifications linked to their role.

Annie Guy, who is progressing her career to management level, said: “When I left school I didn’t want to go to university and get into debt. I wanted to continue learning while earning a wage, so an apprenticeship was the obvious choice. I secured a business administration apprenticeship at Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council and I haven’t looked back. I achieved my Level 2 and 3 in business administration, which resulted in my promotion and permanent job as business administration assistant. I’m progressing my career by undertaking a team leader apprenticeship.”

Apprenticeship or university?

At university, you’ll specialise in a specific area of academic study.

Apprenticeships however, are work-

The college offers careers in many sectors including construction

As well as learning skills in engineering, apprentices are earning a wage

based training programmes where you’ll learn practical skills in a working environment and you can still achieve a degree qualification.

One of the main differences between an apprenticeship and studying at university is you can “earn while you learn”, and your employer will be funding your study, so no university debt.

With an apprenticeship, you earn money while you study your pro-

Former apprentice, Luke Hipkiss completed his apprenticeship and was promoted after successfully achieving a HNC in engineering at Dudley College and then graduated with a first-class honours degree in mechanical engineering at Birmingham City University. Luke said: “Opting for an apprenticeship enabled me to get a university degree, without having the debt of university fees looming over my

fession at Dudley College. Your academic study will directly support the practical experience you get in the workplace, and you’ll gain a relevant qualification that will help you apply for positions in the future, climbing the career ladder and setting you apart from those with little experience. For some students, this is the perfect balance of learning work-related skills, studying and earning money.

head. I was also able to buy my first home at the age of 24 and look forward to a bright career future.”

Discover apprenticeships If you are currently looking for a career change or just starting out, find out more and talk to our apprenticeship experts at the open day on Saturday, March 11,10am2pm.

Register for your place: www. dudleycol.ac.uk

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College teaming up with McAuliffe Group

Earn while you learn with local employers Apprentices earn a wage and work alongside experienced staff to gain %o'*speci!c skills) $ff*t#e*%o'( ,s,all" on a da"*release 'asis( apprentices st,d" towards occ,pational standards set '" e&plo"ers) An apprentices#ip can also lead to ,ni+ersit")

City of Wolverhampton College offers apprenticeships in: • Automotive • Drinks Dispense Technician • Business • Engineering • Computing & IT • Hairdressing & Barbering • Construction • Health & Social Care - Brickwork • Hospitality & Catering - Carpentry & Joinery • Journalism - Construction Plant Operative • Leadership & Management - Electrical • Lean Manufacturing - Plumbing & Gas • Polymer Processing - Site Supervision • Project Management - Digital Engineer • Science • Customer Service • Teaching & Education • Digital Marketing

○ For the latest vacancies visit www.wolvcoll.ac.uk/apprenticeship-jobs or scan the QR code >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

FIND APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES ON WOLVES WORKBOX Choosing the right career can be a daunting task when there are so many options out there. Workbox makes things easier by breaking choices down for you and introducing you to all the people who can help.

wolvesworkbox.com wolvesatwork@wolverhampton.gov.uk @wolvesatwork

City of Wolverhampton College has joined forces with Bilston-based environmental contractor McAuliffe Group to offer a new apprenticeship to young people wanting to work in the construction industry.

The 15-month Level 2 construction plant operative apprenticeship combines studying at college with learning on-the-job, enabling apprentices to develop the necessary skills and knowledge required to work in the sector and gain practical experience on live construction sites across the region.

The training scheme covers operating and maintaining a range of plant equipment – such as excavators, rideon rollers and forward-tipping dumpers – and how site plans and work programmes are developed, as well as health, safety, welfare and environmental requirements on site.

McAuliffe has four apprentices on the scheme who currently attend the college’s Wellington Road campus, Bilston, one day a week and benefit from its industry-standard training facilities, including a construction site equipped with small plant equipment, enabling them to develop skills in a realistic working environment.

Apprentice Bonnie Hill, aged 18,

The McAuliffe Group apprentices

said: “I’ve always wanted to work in construction, but wasn’t sure what was available to me at 18.

“I was so pleased when I heard about this apprenticeship, because I could start learning all the skills I need straight away. I’m already operating a ride-on roller after getting my ticket this month.”

Michael Dixon, assistant principal at the college, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with McAuliffe Group to teach their apprentices the skills they need to move straight into jobs in the sector and have successful future careers in the construction industry.”

For details of the construction plant operative apprenticeship go to www. wolvcoll.ac.uk/demographic/apprentices/category/construction-apprenticeships

Providing skills for the next generation City of Wolverhampton Council is supporting new apprentices with skills for life, helping them to develop their career pathway and to secure permanent positions.

During 2022 the council recruited 48 new apprentices across various council service areas including licensing, pensions, customer services, print services, legal, regeneration, business support, education and finance.

Some of the new and previous apprentices have really excelled progressing into permanent employment, with seven of these new apprentices already gaining permanent roles within the council. And this year is looking to be another promising year with apprenticeship recruitment. In January alone, the council has recruited six apprentices with a further eight in the recruitment process.

Emily Castle, aged 19, started her apprenticeship with the council’s Library Services straight from school.

Emily said: “Starting my first job straight from school was really quite daunting, but my new colleagues at the council and especially within the Library Service have made it easier for me by being so inclusive and accommodating.

“There is always someone willing to sit down with me and help me to learn new skills. My role is really varied, from helping people with books to supporting customers with IT which has

Council apprentice Emily Castle

opened up lots of learning opportunities for me to develop.”

The council has also transferred it’s apprenticeship levy to help a number of local small to medium-sized businesses to recruit apprentices.

Residents of any age looking for apprenticeships or training opportunities with city employers, can visit wolvesworkbox.com or call Wolves At Work on 01902 554400 or can email wolvesatwork@wolverhampton.gov.uk

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 | EXPRESS & STAR

Start your career as an apprentice

Apprenticeships are for everyone and they’re a great way to start, change or develop your career.

Employers working with Kidderminster College realise this too and have showcased their support with their recruitment and training of people from all ages and backgrounds within Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Stourbridge.

Georgia Smith, talent operations co-ordinator at Community Housing who employ a number of apprentices with Kidderminster College, explains: “We recognise the value that they bring to our business – fresh ideas, a willingness to learn, and new ways of working.”

The need for a stable, forward-thinking workforce has never been more prevalent. Apprenticeships at Kidderminster College are providing opportunities for all to be able to start, change or develop their career journey.

Ollie, a property maintenance operative at Elmfield Rudolf Steiner School, enthused: “The apprenticeship has developed my confidence because there’s always people around to ask for help and advice.

I’m also learning more and there’s lots of different things to do.”

Kidderminster-based employ-

An apprenticeship is a great way to start a career

Kidderminster College is a great place to do an apprenticeship

er Redspeed International are no stranger to the role apprentices play in the development of their organisation.

After winning the Worcestershire Apprenticeships Award for apprenticeship employer of the year in 2022, David Harris, financial controller, said: “We recognise the importance and incredible benefit apprenticeships have brought to our organisation and we’ll continue

Induction programmes, both at the college and the apprentice’s employer, help introducew apprentices to their course and the world of work with tailored, bespoke programmes.

Kidderminster College pride themselves on delivering a professional service to employers to best meet their recruitment needs.

Level 3 apprenticeships in business administration, accounting

to build upon this success for a sustainable future.”

The world of work can be daunting but an apprenticeship matches keen learners to supportive employers, such as Jordan, an installation and maintenance electrician apprentice at Impact Electrical: “They’re friendly and really helpful. It’s a good company to work for, they’re always on hand to help if needed.”

and team leading provide members of our local community to begin and develop their careers in the world of professional services across a range of industries. Kidderminster College also provides people with the opportunity to begin and develop their career in construction trades.

Whether you’re an employer or a budding apprentice, contact Kidderminster College and we’ll help you begin your apprenticeship journey.

s p i h s e c i t en

f KC Become part o

r p p A We’re looking for the next apprentices & business partnerships

KC offer a variety of Apprenticeships: Assistant Accountant

Carpentry & Joinery

Installation Electrician and Maintenance Electrician

Light Vehicle

Business Administrator

Team Leading / Supervisor

Property Maintenance Operative

Bricklaying

www.kidderminster.ac.uk/kc-apprentice

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Apprenticeships – a great way to start It’s a real job, with hands-on experience, a salary and the chance to train while you work.

You’re treated just like all the other employees, with a contract of employment and holiday leave.

er who can follow instructions and advice and someone who can think on their feet to fix any problems that crop up. Firms will be looking for a team player who will fit into the existing workforce well. Their apprentice will need to have good people skills, especially if the role involves dealing with customers or the public.

Once you find the right apprenticeship, you will usually need a CV and a cover letter to apply. Some employers may ask applicants to fill out an application form instead of sending a CV. These may be paper-based or online forms which typically list questions for the applicant to complete.

If you’re 16 or over, you can become an apprentice as long as you spend at least 50 per cent of your working hours in England for the duration of the apprenticeship and you are not in full-time education.

Your apprenticeship can take between one and six years to complete, depending on which apprenticeship you choose, what level it’s at, and your previous experience.

Popular From engineering to nursing and from law to design – thousands of apprenticeships are available every year in a vast range of industries and careers. Apprenticeships are often a popular option for people who don’t want to have the worry of student debt hanging over them in the future – and want to get a head start on their future career.

Advanced apprenticeships are equivalent to two A-level passes.

To be accepted you should have five GCSEs or more. Higher apprenticeships range between Level 4,

Research

Thousands of apprenticeships are available every year in a vast range of industries and careers

which is the equivalent of one year of higher education study, to Level 6, which is the equivalent of a Bachelor’s degree. They cover around 75 industries and more than 100 different job roles, ranging from legal services to banking and engineering. Higher and degree apprentices typically split their time between college or university and the workplace.

An apprenticeship can lead to a long-term job after the initial con-

tract is completed. You can also pick up life-long skills that will be useful and adaptable to any industry. The whole time you will be making a good name for yourself and building professional contacts, which will benefit you greatly in the future.

As with other apprenticeships, students are employed throughout and the cost of the fees are shared between the Government and the employer. Many employers choose to pay substantially more than the

apprenticeship minimum wage for those under 19.

As well as having many benefits for apprentices, the scheme is also popular with employers. Many see it as an investment because they can guide and train their recruits to have the specific skills required for the industry and ensure they are reliable members of the workforce.

Employers want an apprentice who is polite, punctual and reliable. They also want a quick learn-

Although many employers look for similar traits in an apprentice, it’s important to research the company and gain a better understanding of what they are looking for because each employer can differ.

During the application process, applicants are often asked to demonstrate how they use essential skills.

Hobbies and extracurricular activities are a great way to showcase these skills and experiences.

It’s a good idea to apply for a few apprenticeships at a time. This increases your chances and means you’re not waiting for a response from one employer. n For more information visit apprenticeships.gov.uk

Kick-start career as a HEX apprentice Do you know someone interested in starting a career in engineering, welding or graphics?

The HEX Group is hosting an apprenticeship open evening on Thursday, February 16, between 5.30pm and 7.30pm at the Group headquarters in Hixon, near Stafford, to highlight apprenticeship opportunities.

The HEX Group is passionate about its apprenticeship scheme, which is why they’re continually finding new ways to make their programmes exciting, dynamic and relevant to today’s fast-paced world of work.

Due to the ongoing success of the scheme, The HEX Group has expanded the opportunities available across several disciplines, a reflection of the commitment to delivering even further opportunities for young people starting their careers.

Since the fully-accredited apprenticeship scheme was launched in 2010 it has supported more than 150 apprentices through the programme. They are proud to have offered all graduates a role within Bri-Stor Systems, Alpha Manufacturing or HEX Graphics.

Group apprenticeship manager Will Davies-Hill said, “We continue to develop or scheme year-on-year because we see the enormous potential apprentices bring to our Group. Many of our apprentices go on to further their

HEX Group has an open evening

careers in one of our businesses, and those with exceptionally high levels of drive and determination go on to achieve a Level 4 qualification. We’ll even sponsor some of our graduate apprentices to go on to earn a full degree.

“If you’re interested in a rewarding and exciting career, come along to our apprenticeship open evening.”

Book your place at www.thehexg roup.co.uk/join-the-hex-g roup/apprenticeship-open-evening/

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 | EXPRESS & STAR

Join a leading electricity distributor

National Grid Electricity Distribution is the electricity distribution network operator for the Midlands, the South West of England and South Wales.

It is responsible for the power lines, poles, transformers and substations that deliver electricity to customers’ homes and businesses.

With net-zero targets revolutionising the way that people heat, light and fuel their homes and vehicles, there has never been a more exciting time to join the industry. Right now, NGED is looking for 120 talented, enthusiastic individuals to join its ranks as part of its 2023 apprenticeship recruitment campaign.

Joining a workforce of 6,700 employees, the apprenticeship scheme is designed to give you all the training and support you need to develop into an accomplished craftsperson.

Craft apprenticeships take two to three years to complete and applicants can expect an excellent range of benefits including competitive salary rates that increase with expertise as well as in-depth training and development.

The first 12 weeks are spent at one of NGED’s world-class train-

Overhead linesperson apprentice Conor Rogers

Lee Wallace, National Grid director of SHE, training and engineering policy

ing centres. The apprenticeship includes support to gain a City & Guilds Level 2 qualification in electrical engineering, periods of on the job training and development and learning from an experienced and qualified craftsperson. On completion, apprentices progress into a qualified craftsperson role working on either overhead lines, the underground cable network or maintaining equipment in substations.

Overhead linesperson apprentice Conor Rogers says: “The thing I love about the apprenticeship is you’re learning something new every day.

Each day is different to the last and the training you get as part of the apprenticeship is phenomenal. The advice I’d give anyone thinking of applying for the apprenticeship is go for it! I really enjoy the camaraderie, being outdoors and supporting each other to become a fully qual-

Ready to power up your career?

The role would suit adventurous individuals who enjoy working outdoors in all weathers. You will need excellent communication skills, safety awareness and relish the challenge of a hands-on practical job.

For further details and minimum entry criteria, visit: www.careers. nationalgrid.co.uk. NGED will be taking applications to February 12.

Earn. Learn.

Bring energy to life.

We’re hiring! Apply for a craft apprenticeship with National Grid Electricity Distribution.

Scan the QR code to learn more, or visit careers.nationalgrid.co.uk

ified linesperson, jointer or fitter.”

Lee Wallace, National Grid director of SHE, training and engineering policy, said: “We are looking for talented, highly motivated people to join the NGED apprenticeship scheme. Our people are at the heart of our business success and our apprentices of today will be our skilled staff of tomorrow – safely delivering outstanding levels of customer service and operational performance.”

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T-levels – new way to develop careers

Is your child leaving school this academic year, but not sure of their next steps?

Have they considered a T-level at South Staffordshire College?

What is a T-level?

T-levels are a brand-new twoyear qualification which combines classroom study with an extended industry placement to ensure the learner gains the knowledge and skills they need to move into skilled work, an apprenticeship or further study upon completion of the T-level. Typically, T-level learners will spend around 80 per cent of their time learning in the classroom at college, and the other 20 per cent of their time on an industry placement, allowing them to put newly learnt skills in the classroom into practice in a real work setting.

Equivalent to three A levels One T-level is equivalent to three A levels and therefore the same number of UCAS points should your child wish to progress into higher education upon completion of the qualification. Upon completion of the T-level qualification learners will receive a nationally recognised certificate which will show the overall grade achieved which could be a pass, merit, distinction or distinction*.

The college is to offer a T-Level in education and childcare

The college offers a chance to start a career in health and social care

Created with businesses Employers have been heavily involved with the creation of T-levels to help ensure that learners develop the technical knowledge and skills demanded by employers and the wider industry upon completion of the T-level programme.

Thanks to the industry placement, which is a minimum of 45 days, T-level learners will have a valuable opportunity to gain first-

The college is working closely with local employers to ensure that students will be able to gain quality industry placements within their chosen fields.

If you work at, or know an employer who may be able to help with offering a high-quality industry placement for T-level learners, get in touch directly with the college by emailing: enquiries@southstaffs. ac.uk

hand experience of what it’s like to work within the industry in a real career.

What T-levels are available at South Staffordshire College?

From September, South Staffordshire College will be offering a T-level in education and childcare and a T-level in health from Tamworth College. However, the college does have plans to offer a broader range of T-levels from 2024.

Take your career to the next level

...T-LEVEL!

Are you a school 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 3 A levels, a T-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:

Education & Childcare

He ealth

To find out more visit: southstaffs.ac.uk/tlevels

How can you find out more?

To find out more information about the T-levels on offer at South Staffordshire College and to apply for a course starting this September, visit: southstaffs.ac.uk/t-levels Visit the college at its open day on Saturday, March 11, between 10am and 1pm to take a look around and chat with our friendly and helpful staff. To pre-book a place to attend visit: southstaffs.ac.uk/open-days

South Staffordshire College

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 | EXPRESS & STAR

KUKA offers careers in engineering

KUKA’s apprenticeship programme provides a productive and effective vehicle through which the Black Country-based manufacturer of industrial robots, automation systems and friction welding factory automation can grow talent, and develop a motivated, skilled and qualified workforce.

Operating at a time when the skills shortage has reached critical levels across the UK manufacturing landscape, KUKA’s established apprenticeship programme is enabling the firm to future proof its workforce.

Experience

It is also mitigating the impact of an ageing employee dynamic, but also enabling youngsters to gain invaluable experience within an industrial environment and pave the way to a successful career with one of the world leaders in industrial automation.

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

The business has achieved the gold ‘excellent employer’ standard

KUKA’s apprenticeship programme is helping futureproof its workforce

It was one of the first engineering and manufacturing companies in the UK to receive the standard.

The engineering apprenticeships employer kitemark has been developed by NextGen Makers and Make UK to recognise those UK companies who achieve a best practice benchmark, and also endorse them as exemplary employers of apprentices.

David Rose, head of quality at

in partnership with several local academic institutions.”

As a manufacturer of industrial robots and systems with a diverse apprenticeship offering, KUKA boasts a host of manufacturing and engineering skills in robotics and friction welding, and we believe having a successful apprenticeship scheme is crucial to the future of our business.

Mr Rose concluded: “We are im-

KUKA UK, explained: “As a business, we recognise the importance of mitigating gaps in knowledge transfer streams, and bridging the skills deficit as our legacy workforce reach retirement age, by attracting new talent and new skills into engineering.

“KUKA UK has an established apprenticeship program, through which we are able to deliver industry leading placements to students,

Help to shape the future: contribute towards a sustainable, human-centric and resilient manufacturing industry, in the UK The future of manufacturing is one that embraces connectivity: smart factories, the IoT and digital tools are driving an industry revolution, bridging the gap between the physical and virtual worlds.

With an apprenticeship at KUKA, you can help to shape industry 4.0. in the fields of robotics, automation & engineering. www.kuka.com

mensely proud of the opportunities that we are able to make available to youngsters, and of the apprentices themselves.

“KUKA shall do all in its power to grow them as individuals, and also to develop their knowledge and skills.

“We are by no means blind to the impact that they shall in turn have on our business.

“Our apprentices are our future.”

10 10

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See the bigger picture with Sandwell College

Sandwell College is celebrating success during this National Apprenticeship Week 2023.

We have some amazing apprentices on programme, including Maria Nieves Smith.

Maria has been working towards her Level 3 business administration qualification with NHS Midlands and Lancashire Commissioning Support Unit.

Sandwell has high ambitions for all of its apprentices studying to be business administrators, engineering technicians, dental nurses, accident repair specialists, healthcare support workers, construction operatives and teaching assistants.

Opportunities There are so many opportunities for new apprentices to join market leading companies, where you’ll receive mentoring and guidance from management and your college assessor.

It’s no surprise so many of our apprentices are positive about their futures when you see how appren-

ticeship programmes help individuals develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding and successful career.

Dedicated staff prepare apprentices well for their next steps, which is why almost all remain in employment at the end of their apprenticeship.

Candidates Established companies with great reputations work hand in hand with us to attract the right candidates for a whole range of varied apprenticeship vacancies.

We have new live vacancies coming on stream for jobs which combine work and training – with dynamic employers from house builders, solicitors, logistics firms and dental practices to accident repair centres. You’ll earn a wage, develop your skills, update your CV and experience, and get an early start on the career ladder.

You’ll get first-hand knowledge and support from our comprehensive instructor-guided courses, while you study to become a qualified professional and complete your

qualification, learning from some of the best in your industry.

So if you need advice on what employers look for in candidates like you and how best to showcase your skills and abilities in an interview, we’ve got you covered.

By talking to us you’ll discover valuable insight to ensure you succeed in landing the apprenticeship you want, and get useful tips for working and learning in a real-world environment on your journey to your dream career.

Wellbeing Sandwell’s supportive environment enables you to focus on and make progress in your learning, with your workplace wellbeing right at the top of our list.

Star Awards are held annually to celebrate all of our apprentices’ success.

Next year you could be one of our Stars!

Check our live vacancies now, register your application or join our talent pool at sandwell.ac.uk/ apprenticeships/apprenticeship-vacancies

Sophie is a construction apprentice with high ambitions for her career

ISANAPPREN NTICESHIP FORYOU? WANT TO EARN WHILE YOU LEARN?

Vacancies available in many areas including

Professional Services

EXPLOREMORE ANDAPPLY sandwell.ac.uk/apprenticeships SANDWELLCOLLEGE,SPONLANE,WESTBROMWICHB706AW

THE BEST COLLEGE FOR THE JOB

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2023 | EXPRESS & STAR

Realise your full potential with NSCG

Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group is the region’s largest apprenticeship provider and currently has around 1,500 apprentices on programmes across a variety of sectors including construction, engineering and manufacturing through to business management, logistics and marketing.

Enrolling on an apprenticeship with one of NSCG’s partner employers across Staffordshire and the West Midlands means you can learn vital practical and technical skills in a hands-on-environment and ‘earn as you learn’ whilst working towards a nationally recognised qualification.

If you’re considering an apprenticeship when you progress from your current course, friendly and knowledgeable staff in The Apprenticeship Hub at NSCG are on hand to help. You can chat through your options, get help writing your CV and pick up interview hints and tips whilst they help you find the right apprenticeship.

Jane Tunnicliff, group head of employer engagement and training,

An apprentice at Jodrell Bank

said: “Apprenticeships provide an opportunity to start a career in an industry of interest and are a great path for learners that want to gain vital experience while working towards a recognised qualification.

“Apprentices are supported by the college and experienced work colleagues within their place of work, many of whom also started as apprentices themselves, and as a result they are well looked after and

The colleges offer apprenticeships in construction

given excellent support throughout their programme becoming great assets to the companies and industries they work for.

“Around 90 per cent of our apprentices also go on to secure permanent employment.”

If you’re looking for a practical route into an industry you love, come and speak to The Apprenticeship Hub to find out how they can help you land your dream career.

That’s exactly what Rachel Crawshaw, apprentice at DJH Mitten Clarke did. She said: “I studied my A Levels at NSCG so I knew a lot about The Apprenticeship Hub and I knew it would be a great fit for me to do my study hours here. The idea of ‘earn as you learn’ really appealed to me as I could get paid whilst getting on the job experience and still gain a qualification which ticked all the boxes.”

As the region’s leading education and training provider, we work collaboratively with more than 850 employers throughout Staffordshire and the West Midlands to foster long-term relationships to support both learner development and business growth and prosperity.

To find out more, visit nscg. ac.uk/apprenticeships or call 01785 275660 to speak to The Apprenticeship Hub.

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Developing the skills for life in the city

Wolverhampton Homes is an arm’s length management organisation that manages and looks after more than 21,000 homes on behalf of the City of Wolverhampton Council.

The company is committed to making the city an even better place to live, providing good quality homes in safe, welcoming neighbourhoods. It is believed that everyone in Wolverhampton Homes can play their part in making that happen – with the right support.

Wolverhampton Homes offers opportunities in its property services division for bricklaying, carpentry, electrical, plumbing and gas apprenticeships. An apprenticeship typically lasts between two and four years, with apprentices gaining practical hands-on experience alongside formal college learning, giving them the best of both worlds and a solid grounding in their trade.

Last year Wolverhampton Homes recruited more apprentices who are hoping to follow in the footsteps of plumbing and gas apprentice Connor Smith. Connor joined the company in 2021 and won the property and construction apprentice of the year at the Express & Star awards

Some of the Wolverhampton Homes apprentices with city council leader Councillor Ian Brookfield, centre

last year for his commitment to top quality work and great customer service.

Lara, first year apprentice from Whitmore Reans, said: “I’ve been interested in carpentry and plumbing for as long as I can remember, so was excited at the chance to become an apprentice with Wolverhampton Homes.

“I get on well with my mentor and

I’m learning lots – not just about the trade, but about how to adapt to different people and situations in the workplace. I’m feeling really positive and I’m excited to see where my apprenticeship takes me.”

Ravel is in his first year of a plumbing and domestic heating apprenticeship: “Since starting my apprenticeship I haven’t looked back. I attend college once a week,

and the rest of the time I’m gaining practical experience.”

Wolverhampton Homes is recruiting more new apprentices and management trainees this year, as part of its commitment to the City of Wolverhampton Council’s drive to reduce youth unemployment and create new opportunities for young people in the city.

Shaun Aldis, chief executive of

Wolverhampton Homes said: “We are always looking for great people to join us, and as one of the largest employers in the city, we strive to support the City of Wolverhampton Council in developing local talent – it is central to our mission of helping people get on in life. We have colleagues within WH who joined us on apprenticeships many years ago who have gone on to have rewarding and fulfilling careers and we’ve gained some real talent through our apprentice programmes.

“Each apprentice is paired with an experienced mentor who supports them and monitors their progress, helping them to put their formal learning into practice, but we also want to hear from them – sharing their ideas for enhancing what we do.

“We’re committed to driving growth and innovation through our apprenticeship programme, and delivering great outcomes for our customers. Whether you’re an experienced tradesperson, a housing professional or just starting out, there’s a place for you at Wolverhampton Homes.”

This year’s apprenticeship recruitment will launch later in 2023.

Register your interest and be the first to hear when the roles go live: https://www.wolverhamptonhomes. org.uk/careers/

Early careers opportunities Competitive salary plus attractive benefits Our early careers programmes are helping local people to get on in life through combining formal study and on-the-job training.

Join us as a management trainee or an apprentice and you’ll benefit from a structured training programme which will support you to learn new skills and put them straight into action. Everyone deserves to live in a safe and decent home, so you’ll be developing your career in a sector where your work matters and you can really make a difference.

Whether you’re leaving full-time education, looking to upskill or thinking about a change in direction, find out more about starting your career with one of the city’s biggest employers.

Register your interest today.

www.wolverhamptonhomes.org.uk/apprentices

“I’ve learnt so many new skills in such a short time and I’m proud that my mentor trusts me to do a good job.”