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Apprenticeship Appraisal
A Hartlepool construction firm is building the foundations of its future workforce by recognising the value of Apprenticeships... |
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Latest News
25/02/2009
Apprenticeship Appraisal
A Hartlepool construction firm is building the foundations of its future workforce by recognising the value of Apprenticeships.Chris Linton, owner of CLC Construction, which provides a one-stop-shop for all domestic and commercial building needs, has employed around a dozen apprentices over the past 14 years but it’s his latest recruit, Keiran Crawford, that has been a brick to the firm.
Eighteen year-old Keiran from Billingham began his Brick Laying Apprenticeship in October 2007 after deciding he wanted to earn money while learning new skills. He has been involved in a range of duties at CLC including brick laying, preparing ground works, roofing, joinery and concreting as well as working towards his qualification at Stockton Riverside College. And after just 16 months he has already demonstrated his potential as a future employee.
Chris said: “Keiron is very hard-working and always asks the right questions. He has shown good team-working skills and working with former apprentice Mark, he can be trusted to do a job anywhere without supervision after the initial day setting up. He will definitely be offered the opportunity to be kept on permanently following his Apprenticeship.”
Chris recognises the importance of Apprenticeships in developing a skilled workforce and also sees the benefits to both the apprentice and the employer.
He said: “If we don’t train more young people in the primary skills needed within our key industries we will see a skills shortage on a larger scale than ever before.
“It’s important for companies to give willing apprentices a chance if they want their businesses to grow. It’s a case of nurturing them to fit in with company ways and philosophies to give them and the business a more secure future.
“Companies should also consider that it can save their business money in initial outlay to employ an apprentice rather than another member of staff who may or may not be more suitable. Obviously they have got to be willing to invest their time in training them, but I find it really rewarding to help them to achieve their goals.”
Kieran has enjoyed being able to go straight into the workplace. “It’s been good to be able to get hands-on experience straight after school,” he said. “I would definitely recommend an Apprenticeship to others as they give you the experience you need to succeed.”
Apprenticeships are a cornerstone of the LSC’s drive to improve the skills of England’s workforce. They offer training for existing staff and new recruits in a wide range of areas and there are over 180 different courses offering relevant training designed by business for business. Apprentices learn while they work, so their knowledge is up-to-date and because their training is on the job, the practical skills they gain are the ones that are right for business.
Chris Roberts, regional director, LSC North East, said: “CLC Construction provides a great example of the benefits that apprentices can offer both the employer and employee. I hope that other firms take on board Chris Linton’s advice to help secure the future of skilled industries. It has never been more important for employers to invest in the skills of their workforce. Those who make training a priority will be in a stronger position once the economy improves.”
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