The nation’s top 100 apprenticeship employers have been revealed, with eight companies representing the manufacturing sector.
The annual Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers list is compiled by the National Apprenticeship Service in partnership with City & Guilds and recognises excellence in businesses that employ apprentices.
The manufacturing companies featured include The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC); Alcoa Power & Propulsion; Griffon Hoverwork; GKN Aerospace – Filton; JEB Engineering Design; KMF; MBDA UK and Partwell Cutting Technology.
All of which have been selected by a panel of judges from the employment and skills arena for their exceptional contribution to apprenticeships.
Chief executive of MTC, Dr Clive Hickman said: “To be included in this prestigious list is a real achievement and gives formal recognition for our efforts in helping youngsters succeed in their chosen career. Our aim is to make an MTC apprenticeship the gold standard for engineering and manufacturing in the UK.
“MTC apprentices have the opportunity to work in a unique research and development environment where each day is different and there are real opportunities to work on exciting projects. MTC apprentices are given responsibility in a real business environment from their first day.”
Having taken on 40 apprentices, with an aim to grow this number year-on-year, the MTC is planning to build an £18m advanced manufacturing training centre at its Ansty Park headquarters.
The new centre will be a flagship facility for an advanced apprenticeship programme and apprentices will learn the latest technology in areas such as intelligent automation, additive layer manufacture, laser machining and welding.
Announcing the list at the National Apprenticeship Awards, which took place during The Skills Show in Birmingham, Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: “The Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers have clearly demonstrated how apprenticeships have a major part to play in building great businesses.
“I would encourage more businesses across England to follow these shining examples and find out how apprenticeships can help them build a skilled, motivated and highly qualified workforce. For the Top 100 Apprentice Employers recognised in 2014, their great achievement clearly outlines why apprenticeships deliver the skills that young people and the economy need.”
CEO and director general of City & Guilds, Chris Jones added: ‘It’s fantastic to celebrate the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers. They should be proud of their role in helping people gain the skills they need to be successful. After all, apprenticeships are a great way for people to earn as they learn, and they bring countless benefits to businesses.”
