In National Apprenticeship Week we ran for the second time our virtual apprenticeship information evenings.
Potential applicants booked 15 minute slots online across 4 evenings and were able to speak to Rob Alderman from the Engineering Trust and from here Wanda, Head of HR, Darren, Manufacturing and Rob, Quality about our 2 opportunities.
Despite a lot of advertising, internally, social media, website and Banbury FM the response was mixed.
The questions asked of us were also mixed and our conclusion was that there needs to be much more education out there on apprenticeship format, qualifications, structure and even duration.
We currently have 2 vacancies; Apprentice Quality Technician and CNC Machinist to start this summer.
The format of our apprenticeships is
Year 1 – Full Time at Abingdon College undertaking Level 2 foundation competencies.
Year 2 – 1 day at college studying the first year of the Advanced Manufacturing Engineering
Certificate (AME)
- 4 days participating in the Norbar Internal Training plan.
This plan takes about 1 year and allows an apprentice to spend time in each area, and department both on the shop floor and in support functions fully understanding how the business works.
Each placement has a set of objectives that need to be covered and signed off by the Line Manager for evidence purposes. In some placements the apprentice is actually undertaking some aspects of the role; it’s not just observation.
Year 3 – 1 day at college completing the 2nd year of the AME certificate
Year 4 – Involves more focused training in areas that support the end job role.
We have a very successful structured, programme fully supported by Rob Alderman from the Engineering Trust.
There is still time to make an application on www.theengineeringtrust.org
Closing date for applications is 19 March 2022.