Jaguar Land Rover, has launched its search for the largest ever intake of apprentices to join its 2012 training programme today.
The apprentice programme, which this year is searching for both Advanced and Higher Apprentices, coincides with National Apprenticeship week (6-10 Feb).
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) is looking for a record 133 Advanced Apprentices to join in 2012, up from the 114 it hired in 2011.
This will consist of 109 Advanced Apprenticeships and 24 new Higher Apprentices who will work towards the acquisition of a series of NVQs and a degree in a comprehensive training programme.
Apprentices will then go on to fulfil roles in a variety of manufacturing and product development functions.
Commenting on the 2012 Apprentice programme, Des Thurlby, human resources director at JLR, said: “Our apprentice intake has more than doubled in the last 4 years and I am delighted that this year we are committing to take on a record number of apprentices.”
Mr Thurlby added: “Apprenticeships provide a valuable and credible career path for the brightest and best and JLR is committed to providing the highest quality practical and academic training to develop the future generation of engineering talent needed to drive our business forward, indeed many of our senior leaders began their careers as apprentices.”
Advanced and Higher Apprentices will be recruited at all of JLR’s Midlands and Merseyside based engineering and manufacturing sites including the new Advanced Engine facility where Advanced Apprentices will be supporting the development of a new generation of low-emission engines.
These are the first positions to be advertised in support of JLR’s activity at the i54 based plant – further recruitment opportunities will be announced in due course.
Tony Burke, assistant general secretary at the union Unite, said: “This is great news for the motor industry in the UK and also for those young people who will be training to become the skilled engineers of tomorrow.
“With youth unemployment at a record high, we now want to see more companies and industries follow JLR’s lead and offer more quality apprenticeships for young people.”
JLR will be attending several events to promote its programmes during National Apprenticeship Week including The Real Apprentice showcases in Dudley, Walsall, Sandwell and Wolverhampton.
The JLR careers website opens for applications on 6th February 2012 and will close on 8th April 2012. Anyone interested in applying should visit: www.jaguarlandrovercareers.com.
