Apprentices, are all schemes equal?

We don't think so. A number of apprenticeship programmes have recently been slated in the press for being ineffective and not offering the necessary training required to develop the skill sets needed. 

Pailton Engineering’s Managing Director John Nollett is resolute in the belief that many apprenticeship schemes fail because employers are not providing a sufficiently rounded programme to inspire interest.

Pailton has been running a successful apprenticeship scheme for over 17 years and leads by example.  Many of Pailton’s apprentices are still with the company having grown and developed to become managers, team leaders etc all of whom share an infectious enthusiasm for both the company and their employers.

It is a view which is shared by the company’s three latest recruits – Daniel Baker, Ellis Thompson and Lewis Brennan all of whom are still studying at the Training college MGTS for their first year’s BTEC training before moving into the business for their hands on training. 

All share a keen interest in engineering and a desire to succeed.  Whilst at school Daniel studied an Engineering Diploma although was also tempted by a career in sport.  Engineering however won through as the practical option and he is enjoying all aspects although lists design as a favourite at the moment. 

Daniel commented:  “This is a great opportunity.  I love practical things and to be able to learn on the job whilst getting paid at the same time is great.

“Having had the opportunity to look round Pailton I am really looking forward to working my way around the departments.  I like design at the moment but it could be that I enjoy something else more once I get the opportunity for some hands on training.”

At 16 Ellis, whose Grandad was a toolmaker, is the youngest member of the group.  He had his sights set on an engineering career from a young age and he too studied for an Engineering Diploma as well as Graphic Design, Resistant Materials and IT.  He is excited by the prospect of joining the Pailton operation when he finishes his first year at college.  He commented:  “When I first walked into Pailton and saw all the steering systems I knew that was where I wanted to be.”

Whilst engineering wasn’t Lewis’ initial choice of career he now knows he has made the right decision.  Having studied a Uniform Service course at school, all Lewis wanted to do was join the army and fight for Queen and Country but his family had other ideas and he was forced to look at other career options.  His next choice was to become a fireman although was not really what he wanted and so took the decision to look for an apprenticeship.  He was quickly successful and was taken on by Pailton in the summer of 2011.

“I am really enjoying it – Turning at the moment is my favourite module  – although I am looking forward to developing further skills and getting the opportunity to put the theory I have learned at college into practice.  I just really like getting stuck into what I do.”

HR Director Andrew Lancashire not only keeps a watchful eye on the three new recruits but on all the apprentices as they work their way through the programme

It is an approach which clearly works and what is clearly evident amongst all the apprentices is not only the commitment but also loyalty to Pailton – qualities not often found in industry today.

Two apprentices now in their third year share the same level of enthusiasm as their younger counterparts.

Both are now studying for their HNC on a day release.  Sean Reynolds, 21, joined the apprenticeship scheme having left school after his first year of A levels.  “I was debating whether to go to university but didn’t really know what I wanted to do.

“I thought engineering would be a challenge and when the opportunity came up for me to go to MGTS I took it.  I enjoy the machining side but still want to keep my options open.  The fact that I have been able to work around the departments has been really helpful as it has enabled me to see each stage of what Pailton does and how it all knits together.”

Dean Reeves, also 21, joined Pailton having originally studied plumbing at college. He was unable to get a job and was recommended to MGTS.  Having already worked on the shop floor, production and quality, Dean is now in the design department where it looks as though he will stay.  He commented:  “I have thoroughly enjoyed the scheme to date.  To be able to apply our college work in a practical way has been hugely beneficial.

“Design without doubt is my forte -  I like being creative and using my own initiative and the design department lets me do just that. “