Sheffield-based heavy engineering specialist, DavyMarkham, has recruited another batch of specially selected school leavers to enrol on its acclaimed apprenticeship scheme.
Five Yorkshire teenagers, who recently finished their GCSE’s were selected from over 300 applicants for the much sought after apprenticeship scheme.
Serving in the main workshops and studying towards vocational studies in engineering related subjects such as City and Guilds or B-Tech National Diplomas the apprentices will learn on the job, ensuring important workplace behaviours are also embedded early.
Peter Kerfoot, apprentice training manager at DavyMarkham, said: “We have been running our popular apprenticeship scheme for four years and in that time we have taken on 25 school or college leavers.
“The successful applicants were chosen for their real aptitude, following a rigorous assessment day, one-to-one interview and a visit to the plant.”
To be considered for a place on the competitive apprenticeship scheme a minimum of five GCSEs and a genuine passion to work in the heavy engineering sector are required.
The new admissions will be based at DavyMarkham’s Darnall facility, one of the most modern heavy engineering facilities in the world, with computer controlled machine tools, design facilities and the ability to handle complex components weighing up to 350 tonnes.
The apprenticeships cost the company £100,000 annually and last between three to four years depending on competence and commitment, in a variety of roles including, mechanical and electrical maintenance, fabrication and welding, machine shop and production fitting.
Mr Kerfoot added: “DavyMarkham’s future depends on well trained and highly skilled people and a robust apprenticeship scheme is vital to the company’s ability to compete in an increasingly competitive international market.
“This new crop of motivated and talented young people is an essential investment for our continued success and these bright young individuals soon start to contribute and bring their own ideas to projects.
Speaking of apprenticeship progression Mr Kerfoot concluded: “Many of our previous apprentices have gone on to become highly valuable members of our team – proving the scheme is a great opportunity for young people in the area to pursue a rewarding career.”
DavyMarkham was recently recognised for its apprentice training standards after young engineer Jonathan Cheeseman, who was taken on in 2009, was awarded the prestigious Student of the Year Award at Rotherham College of Arts and Technology.
