News: July 2010

The National Apprentice Awards shortlist has revealed the top apprentices and apprentice employers in Britain.

The shortlist closely follows the announcement by the government that the number of apprenticeship places available is to be boosted by 50,000.

Bramall Construction in Rotherham, Yorkshire, is shortlisted in the Large Employer of the Year category. The firm sees apprentices as the lifeblood of its business model, helping it to develop the skills needed for the future. In offering apprenticeships, the business works closely with less advantaged groups, giving them the opportunity to turn their lives around.

Gloucestershire-based MK Wildin & Sons currently employs six apprentices and is a finalist for Small Employer of the Year. The company’s apprenticeship programme started in 1991 and has been responsible for the development of apprentices of all ages and experience.

The current managing director has himself undertaken an apprenticeship in carpentry and joinery. The company has fostered strong links with local education providers and offers school pupils work experience in order to encourage enthusiasm for careers in the construction sector.

John Hayes, minister for further education, skills and lifelong learning, said: “The annual Apprenticeship Awards recognise individuals who have achieved so much through hard work and good instruction and highlight the commitment many employers have made to invest in their workforce.

“Apprenticeships play a huge role in providing the skills we need to build an advanced economy. They help get young people into work, boost productivity and improve competitiveness. That is why we have created 50,000 additional apprenticeship places. We want to see more apprenticeships shaped by business needs.

“For this government, skills are a priority and apprenticeships are at the heart of our determination to produce a new generation of craftsmen capable of building a highly skilled, competitive economy.”

Simon Waugh, chief executive of the National Apprenticeship Service, said: “This year we received a record 1,300 nominations from across England in a range of industry sectors, showing the breadth and opportunities available through apprenticeships. An additional 50,000 places will offer more people the chance to succeed and give more employers the chance to come on board and find out what apprenticeships have to offer.”

The Awards, organised by the National Apprenticeship Service, will take place on 15 July in London.

More about the Apprenticeship Awards and the benefits of apprenticeships can be found by visiting www.apprenticeships.org.uk or by calling 08000 150 600.