· 2011. 11. 28. · filtering nearly 100 applications from all parts of Wales and selecting 19 finalists. The judges were Ray Edwards, ... and catering, electrical, plumbing, hairdressing,

Apprenticeship Awards

Cymru 2011

www.cymru.gov.uk

2

Introduction

Awards Celebrate Excellence And Outstanding Achievements

Apprenticeship Awards Cymru celebrate the outstanding achievements of learners, employers and providers involved in the delivery of quality apprenticeships across Wales.

Showcasing excellence in skills development in Wales, the awards are organised by the Welsh Government in partnership with the National Training Federation for Wales (NTfW). The main sponsor is Pearson and the media partner is Media Wales.

This Awards Ceremony brings together the best of learners, employers and learning providers, who have shown total dedication and commitment to skills development. They represent cutting edge technology in world leading businesses, bespoke apprenticeship programmes designed to meet the needs of industry and inspiring individual success stories.

The awards are split into six categories: Foundation Apprentice of the Year, Apprentice of the Year, Young Apprentice of the Year, Medium Employer of the Year, Large Employer of the Year and Apprenticeship Provider of the Year.

A distinguished panel of judges had the difficult task of filtering nearly 100 applications from all parts of Wales and selecting 19 finalists. The judges were Ray Edwards, Director of Sales at Pearson Work Based Learning, Simon Farrington from Media Wales, Sian Powell and Jacqui Bastock from the Welsh Government, Leon Patnett from Careers Wales, Richard Spear from NIACE Dysgu Cymru, Andy Dodge from the NTfW and Melanie Thomas from ITEC.

Irrespective of whether or not they collect an award, the 19 finalists are all winners. Each has an inspiring story to tell, making them true ambassadors for apprenticeship programmes in Wales, which receive funding from the European Social Fund.

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Cymru 2011Contents

Foreword 4Jeff Cuthbert, Deputy Minister for Skills 4Arwyn Watkins, Chairman, National Training Federation for Wales 5

Awards Categories 6Learning Provider Finalists 7Acorn Learning Solutions Limited - Winner 7Cambrian Training Company 8Pembrokeshire College 9

Learner Finalists 10Stephen Roberts - Winner 10Tomos Hopkin - Winner 11James Bannister 12Chris Readman 13Christopher Selio 14Benjamin Morgan - Winner 15Richard Wilkins - Winner 16Felicity Llewellyn 17Beth Pickering 18Rhys West 19

Employer Finalists 20Mercure Swansea Hotel - Winner 20BT Local Business (Leading Edge Group Limited) 21Monmouthshisre Housing Association Limited 22Kronospan Limited - Winner 23Airbus in the UK 24Newport City Homes 25

Pearson 26Sponsors 28

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Foreword

Jeff CuthbertDeputy Minister for Skills

Apprenticeship Awards Cymru is about showcasing success and encouraging more businesses to take on apprentices.

The six categories are designed to celebrate the outstanding achievements of learners, employers and providers throughout Wales.

I have been encouraged by the extremely high standard of this year’s fi nalists and the variety across all ages and sectors, which shows the strength of apprenticeship delivery in Wales.

I believe employers need to use apprenticeships as the key mechanism to make their business more competitive.

Highly skilled and qualifi ed apprentices increase the attractiveness of Wales as a place for employers to do business.

Of course they also offer an excellent form of work based learning and skill development for the apprentices themselves.

That is why the Welsh Government is committed to creating more apprenticeship opportunities for young people in Wales and continuing to support employers who are willing to offer high quality apprenticeship places.

These awards are important in raising the profi le of apprenticeships in Wales and I hope they will inspire more learners to become apprentices and more businesses to take them on.

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Arwyn Watkins NTfW Chairman

The NTfW is delighted to have secured Apprenticeship Awards Cymru 2011 in partnership with the Welsh Government and our sponsors. These awards provide a wonderful opportunity to showcase and celebrate the achievements of those

who have exceeded expectations, shown a dynamic approach to training and demonstrated initiative, enterprise, innovation, creativity and commitment to improve skills to support the Welsh economy.

Apprenticeships combine the key elements of work experience and high quality training, which are necessary for sustained employment and high productivity, both of which are required if Welsh businesses are to compete in the ever changing global economy.

Employers are now placing a greater emphasis on growing their own people through apprenticeship programmes. Staff are developing their skills as their employer develops, providing sustainable employment.

I also believe passionately that competitions are important not only to raise the level of skills of individual learners but also within the workforce as a whole.

The recent WorldSkills event in London set the global benchmark for skills and our apprentices, mentors and trainers must aspire to achieve that standard if we are to develop a world class economy in Wales.

The NTfW welcomes the Welsh Government’s review of all qualifi cations for 14 to 19 year olds in Wales to ensure that they are meeting the needs of learners and the economy and providing value for money. It’s the responsibility of all stakeholders to be open, honest and transparent with learners so that they know when they begin their learning journey, where it is going to take them and there must be no dead ends.

The Awards fi nalists are excellent examples of this partnership approach to skills development in Wales by employers, apprentices and providers working together to deliver a high quality, high performing workforce. They are ambassadors who I am sure will champion apprenticeships as one of the solutions for economic recovery.


Cymru 2011

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Award Categories

Learning Providers

This award showcases the significant contribution made by learning providers to supporting and delivering apprenticeships in Wales.

Applicants demonstrated one or more of the following:

• Why they believe their training to be exceptional

• Resources and support over and above what was ‘normally’ expected

• An innovative approach to the delivery of Apprenticeships

• The use of Apprenticeships to meet a business need

• The steps taken to ensure equality and diversity

Learners

This category showcases the dedication and commitment of those individual candidates who have chosen the apprenticeship route to enable them to further their career prospects.


• Proven commitment to continued personal development

• Contributed significantly to the business and provided added value

• Overcame the odds to succeed in their chosen field

Employers

Awarded to the employer recognising and celebrating their commitment to developing their workforce through apprenticeships and supported their employees during their training.


• A significant contribution or commitment to the Apprenticeship programme

• An innovative or dynamic approach to the delivery of Apprenticeships

• Level of support over and above the industry norm

• Apprenticeships embedded and/or integrated into the training plan and ethos of the organisation

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Acorn Learning Solutions

Acorn adds value to apprentices and employers.

Newport-based learning provider Acorn Learning Solutions Limited has developed an excellent reputation for innovation and delivering learning and development solutions that add real value to apprentices and employers.

From the outset, through employer engagement and learner involvement, the company’s focus is to deliver

a high quality, valuable learning experience that benefi ts both the

learner and employer.

Apprenticeships are delivered in a number of sectors, including insurance and banking, management, customer service, administration, retailing, warehousing and distribution, learning and development, IT, manufacturing, hospitality, engineering and contact centres.

The company has trained 4,386 apprentices over the past fi ve years and currently has 1,214 on a programme. Bespoke apprenticeships are delivered to a wide range of employers, including Little Inspirations, Cassidian, Leading Edge Group, Vale of Glamorgan Council, Peacocks, DAS and Zurich.

“The development of bespoke apprenticeship programmes for employers utilise a mixture of delivery partners and ensure that both the learner and employer receive the most suitable and appropriate training and that the required outcomes are met,” said Sarah John, Acorn’s Commercial Director.

The company is committed to the continued development of its training delivery solutions, taking an innovative approach to industry requirements, investing heavily in technology to improve and enhance the learning experience.

Some of Acorn’s sector leading work includes the development of a new pilot for Higher Education Credits at Level 4 in year 12, with Cardiff Business School and progression opportunities for apprentices into higher education learning through Universities Heads of the Valleys Institute (UHOVI).

Sarah John (right), Acorn’s Commercial

Director and Helena Williams (left),

Corporate Development Director.

Learning Provider FinalistsApprenticeship Awards

Cymru 2011

a high quality, valuable learning experience that benefi ts both the

ApprenticeshipProvider

of the Year

Winner

8

Cambrian Training Company

Delivering skills to survive and thrive in the 21st century.

“We believe in delivering skills to survive and thrive in the 21st century,” says Cambrian Training Company’s Managing Director, Arwyn Watkins.

The company, which has its headquarters in Welshpool and delivers training across

Wales, has an award-winning track record of success.

The most recent accolade came last month when Cambrian Training Company (CTC) collected the small employer award for Wales in the National Training Awards for excellence in training and staff development.

The company, which has a workforce of 38, is currently delivering apprenticeship programmes to 352 apprentices, taking the total over the past fi ve years to 2,662.

The sectors CTC works with include hospitality, food manufacturing, engineering, environmental conservation, customer service, retail, business administration, management and leadership and health and social care.

“We are passionate about the skills we deliver and how we can make a difference to sectors and businesses,” said Arwyn Watkins.

“Our focus is concentrated on achieving better outcomes for apprentices and employers.”

The company’s success has been built on strong relationships with employers and apprentices and a willingness to provide fl exible training solutions.

Hywell Dda NHS Trust, Stena Line, Castell Howell Foods, Dunbia, Ventura and S.A Brain are just a few of the businesses working with CTC.

One of the company’s greatest achievements to date was running a pilot programme in Wales for the Triple A National Committee, which has led to a fully recognised craft-led apprenticeship for chefs with Pearson.

Recently, they were the only work based apprenticeship provider in Wales to secure an international showcase with butchery apprentices at WorldSkills London 2011.

Elen Rees (left), Financial Director and

Anne Williams, Director of Skills at

Cambrian Training Company.


Cymru 2011Learning Provider Finalists

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Pembrokeshire College

College apprentices gain skills needed by employers.

Equipping learners with the skills needed by local employers and the national economy is at the heart of Pembrokeshire College’s strategy.

The college, based in Haverfordwest, is currently training 280 apprentices, which takes the total number prepared for work over the past fi ve years to nearly 2,000.

Through consultation with local employers, employability skills are embedded into all apprenticeship programmes across all disciplines. “This ensures that learners leave the college with the skills needed to be able to contribute to the future growth and success of local, national and international businesses,” said Geoff Elliott, Director of Marketing, Skills and Development.

The college offers apprenticeships at various levels in brickwork, business administration, carpentry and joinery, childcare, health care, hospitality and catering, electrical, plumbing, hairdressing, marine engineering, mechanical engineering, motor vehicle, pipe-fi tting, plating and welding.

As Pembrokeshire is home to a large proportion of the UK’s petrochemical industry, there is signifi cant demand for training, which is co-ordinated by an Engineering Construction Employers Group (ECEG), comprising the industry, college and ECITB representatives.

To prepare apprentices for work, the college has invested in training facilities that accurately refl ect the complex and hazardous nature of conditions found in the refi nery sector.

Oil refi nery company Valero has established an apprenticeship scheme in partnership with the college, which has seen 100 per cent framework completions and over 90 per cent progression into permanent employment.

An ECITB approved welding apprenticeship, which packs two years’ training into 40 weeks, has also been designed in response to employer demand.

takes the total number prepared for work

to contribute to the future growth and Engineering construction apprentices

with lecturer Michael Llewellyn at

Pembrokeshire College’s MITEC Centre.

Learning Provider FinalistsApprenticeship Awards

Cymru 2011

10

Stephen Roberts

Neatcrown Corwen Limited

Stephen Roberts has completed a three year Foundation Apprenticeship in Engineering with Neatcrown Corwen Limited.

His work experience at the company, combined with training at Yale College in Wrexham, has resulted in an NVQ Level 2 in Performing Engineering Operations.

He has now been employed by Neatcrown, which manufactures liquids, powders

and pellets for industry and progressed to a level 3 apprenticeship, which will allow him to gain more engineering qualifi cations as he works.

Stephen, who DJs in his spare time is highly-regarded in the company and is a member of its health and safety committee,

carrying out risk assessments and problem solving across the business.

He is often tasked with troubleshooting problems and has designed and built steps for safe access to skips for production workers and also developed a test to check the security of seals on bottles. He also worked closely with Welsh Water on a project to meet water compliance, which included replacing fi ttings and redesigning water discharge.

Stephen, who is dyslexic, said “I want to show people that you don’t have to be brilliant at school to be able to achieve things. You can’t give up when things get hard for you but you have to try harder to make things happen.

I will run my own business one day and will make sure that I give other people a chance to make things happen and take charge of their own futures.”

Robert Evans, Engineering Manager at Neatcrown, said “Stephen is mature and has gained the respect and trust of his peers. He is an invaluable member of the maintenance team and often takes on work which would be considered to be beyond the remit of an apprentice.”

Engineering apprentice

Stephen Roberts at work


Cymru 2011

and pellets for industry and progressed to a level 3

FoundationApprenticeof the Year

Winner

Learner Finalists

11

Tomos Hopkin

Champion butcher Tomos is a cut above the rest.

Eighteen year old Tomos Hopkin has proved a cut above other young butchers since he entered the meat industry at the tender age of 16.

Just three months after starting a Foundation Apprenticeship in Food Manufacture

Meat and Poultry Butchery Retail Skills with

learning provider Cambrian Training Company, he won the coveted Welsh Young Butcher of the Year title, which he went on to retain last year.

Later this month, he will be going for a hat-trick in this year’s competition at the Royal

Welsh Winter Fair in Builth Wells. Added to his list of honours is the Grand Slam British Young Butcher of the Year title, which he won this summer by beating rivals from England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

He was also chosen by Cambrian Training Company to demonstrate his skills in an

international butchery showcase at the WorldSkills event in London last month.

With the Foundation Apprenticeship completed, he is progressing to an Apprenticeship having launched his own business, Gwyrhyd Mountain Meat, making door to door sales of quality Welsh Lamb, Welsh Beef, pork, chicken and turkey from the family farm at Crachllwyn Farm, Rhiwfawr, Swansea.

“Doing the meat round makes the farm more profi table and it’s very rewarding getting good feedback from customers,” he said. “Without the apprenticeship, I wouldn’t have the qualifi cations and skills to be running my own business.

I would defi nitely recommend an apprenticeship because you earn while you learn and you end up with a trade.”

Welsh Winter Fair in Builth Wells. Added to

Tomos Hopkin at work.

Learner Finalists

Meat and Poultry Butchery Retail Skills with

Young Apprenticeof the Year

Winner


Cymru 2011

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James Bannister

Monmouthsire Housing Association

Twenty four year old James Bannister from Abergavenny has completed his Foundation Apprenticeship and is part-way

through his level 3 Apprenticeship with Monmouthshire Housing Association.

With training at Coleg Gwent, he is working towards becoming a fully-qualifi ed carpenter.

He has already gained distinctions in his Foundation Construction Award (FCA) in Carpentry and Joinery and Intermediate Construction Award (ICA) in Site Carpentry. He aims to fi nish his NVQ Level 3 by June 2012 and become a fully-qualifi ed carpenter.

At the housing association, James is part of a team which includes electricians, plumbers and decorators. Together they are working on a programme to replace old kitchens and bathrooms with modern facilities for tenants, as well as installing specialist equipment for those with disabilities.

“The apprenticeship has opened up some real opportunities for my future,” said James. “It has made me realise that

hard work can get you anywhere and given me something to be proud of.

The association encourages multi-skilling wherever possible and I have learnt from other trades tasks such as wall-tiling. I also spent some time learning about roofi ng construction with another housing association, gaining valuable work experience.”

James has received a number of awards from Coleg Gwent including a certifi cate for Best Endeavour and Construction Skills Learner of the Year 2011.

His manager Peter Thomas, said “James is enthusiastic and positive. From the very fi rst days with us he showed a natural ability with carpentry and an eye for detail. He’s also very adaptable and willing to help others out, as well as learn new skills and ways of working.”

James Bannister


Cymru 2011Learner Finalists

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Chris Readman

The John Lewis Partnership

Chris Readman from Corwen has completed a Foundation Apprenticeship in Horticulture.

Training for the National Profi ciency Tests Council Level 2 qualifi cation all took place at his workplace, The Bala Lake Hotel and Activity Centre, part of the John Lewis Partnership.

Chris joined the hotel in 2008, taking on responsibility for the golf course and grounds.

“I had been made redundant a few years earlier, when in my 50s,” he explained. “At the age of 62 and after 30 plus years in a white collar job, my decision to completely change career was a diffi cult one. The apprenticeship training was something I wanted to do to improve my skills and it has really benefi ted me.

The golf course is a key part of the hotel and must be good enough for all standards of golfer, as well as a pleasant and safe place,” added Chris. “I have now redesigned the course and brought it up to a high standard of play. It is now the highest-earning hotel-based activity.

At the age of 65, I like to think I have set an example to people of all ages that there are no barriers to changing career direction or achieving qualifi cations.”

Michael Holdich, Hotel Manager, said “Chris has shown amazing enthusiasm and passion in his work, designing and creating a six-hole golf course and getting it up and running in a very short timescale.

He has gained further qualifi cations whilst working full-time on the estate, using his knowledge to recommend and suggest with confi dence the way forward for the hotel grounds and estate. Chris has shown that it is completely achievable to continue to develop in a career later in life which can lead to job satisfaction and reward.”

Chris Readman at work on

the golf course.

Learner FinalistsApprenticeship Awards

Cymru 2011

14

Christopher Selio

British Airways Maintenance Cardiff (BAMC)

Christopher Selio started his three-year Aeronautical Engineering Apprenticeship with British Airways Maintenance at Cardiff (BAMC) in 2010.

He spent the fi rst year of the Foundation Apprenticeship at the International Centre for Aerospace Training at Cardiff and Vale College.

Now in his second year, he will spend one day a week at the college to study for a BTEC in Aeronautical Engineering and the rest of his time working with the BAMC team at Cardiff Airport.

“My main role as an apprentice is to contribute whatever I can to help the team save time on jobs, as time is one of the most important elements of aircraft maintenance,”

said Christopher. “I want to pick up as much experience as I can from the jobs I do, as well as knowledge from team members.

I feel that I have come a long way since starting the apprenticeship. My knowledge of aircraft is growing and I am working more confi dently with a group of people of all ages. I give 100% to every piece of work and have set myself high targets for the year.”

His aim on completion is to be a qualifi ed mechanic and secure employment at British Airways Maintenance.

His team leader Paul Constable said “During his short time with BAMC, Chris has developed a great understanding of the aviation industry. His work is of a consistently high standard and he has an excellent attitude – nothing is too much trouble for him.”

Apprentice Christopher Selio

at work.



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Benjamin Morgan

Humphreys Car Repairs

Although still only 23, Benjamin Morgan from Shotton on Deeside is now well-known in the area for his skills as a vehicle technician.

Over the past year, he has completed a Foundation Apprenticeship and an

Apprenticeship in Motor Vehicle Level 3 (Light Vehicle) working at Humphreys Garage

in Bagillt, Flintshire, with training at

Deeside College.

Benjamin, who is newly-married, now works full-time at the garage and is often approached by other garages to deal with complex engine diagnostic problems.

“I have always had a love of motor vehicles and strive to be the best,”

said Benjamin. “I realised the importance of getting qualifi cations if I want to progress within the motor industry.

In my own time I never stop working. My spare time and money goes into buying all the latest automotive diagnostic electronic testing equipment. My aim is to set up my own business.”

His tutor at Deeside College, Marshall Clayton, is delighted that Benjamin has been chosen as a fi nalist. “I have never experienced a learner who has such a desire to excel. He has had distinctions in every one of his exams.

He was so good that he was even supporting other students who were struggling in our workshop training sessions.

Ben has been the main person at home supporting the family unit and I think it is this that has driven him to realise the value of working hard and getting qualifi cations.”

His manager, Delwyn Humphreys, added “We are very proud of Benjamin. He has become well-known in the area as the man to go to with advanced vehicle diagnostic issues and we are really benefi ting as a business.”

Benjamin was City and Guilds’ Medals of Excellence Vehicle Technician of the Year and Further Education Lions Award Learner of the Year 2009 –10.

Benjamin Morgan

in Bagillt, Flintshire, with training at

Outstanding Apprenticeof the Year

Winner


Cymru 2011

16

Richard Wilkins

Airbus

Richard Wilkins from Acrefair near Wrexham took up his apprenticeship with Airbus at Broughton in September 2008.

The three-year apprenticeship has involved studying at Deeside College and Bangor and Glyndwr Universities as well as work-based learning at Airbus in Broughton.

Richard, now 21, has worked across a range of functions, including operations, supply chain, quality assurance and

logistics. Challenged to look at better ways of doing things, his

successes have included identifying savings of over £170,000 through improving the way stock is managed.

On completing his apprenticeship, Richard has been employed as an Ordering Offi cer in the team which is developing the new A350 aircraft. His work involves liaising with

French and South Korean suppliers and ensuring the right parts are delivered on time.

“I’m very happy to have been shortlisted,” said Richard. “Airbus has provided me with a unique opportunity and I have tried to do the best I possibly can to repay the level of investment I have received.”

Richard Rimmer, Airbus Supply Chain Manager, added “Richard has been an

outstanding apprentice. He has consistently exceeded our expectations and shown maturity and professionalism beyond his age and experience. Most impressively, he has the confi dence to challenge traditional ways of working and has offered innovative ideas for improvement.”

During the apprenticeship, known formally as a Higher Aeronautical Engineering (Supply Chain Logistics), Richard has gained a range of qualifi cations including a foundation degree in Aeronautical Engineering and a double distinction BTEC National Certifi cate.

He will continue to study for a CIPS (Chartered Institute for Purchasing and Supply) qualifi cation and also aims to learn French, as the company’s headquarters are in France and he deals with a lot of French suppliers.

Airbus apprentice

Richard Wilkins.

logistics. Challenged to look at better ways of doing things, his

successes have included identifying

Apprenticeof the Year

Winner



17

Felicity Llewellyn

Powys Training

Felicity Llewellyn works for Powys Training in Llandrindod Wells as Personal Assistant to the General Manager. She has

recently completed her Apprenticeship in Information Technology in one year.

Felicity, 26, left school when she was 14 but has not let that stand in the way of her career progression. She explained: “I was diagnosed with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis and was unable to walk easily or concentrate because of the pain of my condition.

At that time, I thought that there were no options available to me and I would never be able to catch up with my peers and gain formal qualifi cations. Then, aged 16, I was introduced to vocational learning when I joined Powys Training to undertake a short general learning course.

By continuing to learn I have been promoted through fi ve different jobs here and have achieved a Level 3 NVQ in Business and Administration and the Level 3 Diploma for IT users (ITQ).”

Felicity describes the apprenticeship as “an amazing experience” which has helped her to improve systems and procedures within Powys Training.

“I’m always looking at our working practices and fi nding better ways of doing things. Things I have learned during my apprenticeship have helped me make systems easier for customers and staff, using software more effectively and boosting effi ciency.”

Kath Samuel, her assessor at Powys Training, said “She’s an inspiration to others in the way that she is so self-driven and motivated, and has not let the lack of formal academic qualifi cations hold her back. Through work-based learning, Felicity has achieved so much over the last decade and Powys Training now has her as a dedicated member of our team.”

Felicity Llewellyn


Cymru 2011

18

Learner Finalists

Beth Pickering

Airbus

Beth Pickering from Mold started with Airbus at the age of 16 on a craft apprenticeship. Today, at the age of 21, she is employed by the company, completing her Foundation Degree in Aeronautical Engineering and regularly meeting infl uential politicians to promote engineering as a career.

During her apprenticeship, Beth undertook work placements in production and maintenance at Airbus, Broughton, whilst training at Deeside College and Glyndwr University.

On completing her Higher Engineering Apprenticeship earlier this year, she was employed as a Quality Excellence Facilitator, responsible for rolling out new quality systems. Her work involves leading workshops and coaching teams across the

company to achieve their goals and resolve long-term issues.

Beth represents the company at events encouraging more young people into engineering and spoke at the House of Lords to promote the Science Engineering Manufacturing Technologies Skills and Training Initiative. In her role as

ambassador for Airbus, she has also met Prime Minster David Cameron, many Assembly Members and VIP guests.

“We need more young people – boys and girls – in engineering and I am always happy to promote apprenticeships as a way in,” said Beth. “The apprenticeship has been so important to me. At 16 I really didn’t think that in just fi ve years time I would be completing my degree.

The more I have progressed with the company, the more ambitious I have become. I want to stay with Airbus and broaden my experience, possibly working in France, Germany or China.”

Gary Griffi ths, Head of Apprenticeships at Airbus, said “Beth has been a consistent high performer. In 2010 she was named Apprentice of the Year for the Broughton site - with over 300 apprentices on-site, that’s a major achievement.”

High fl ier Beth Pickering



19

Rhys West

Brecongate Projects

Having completed his apprenticeship, 20-year-old Rhys West from Penpedairheol is now working as a gas engineer with Brecongate Projects in Pontypridd.

During a four-year apprenticeship, he worked on a range of different contracts with

the company, from domestic gas servicing to emergency call-outs. Rhys now works on commercial and industrial maintenance contracts with a local authority.

“I have found it invaluable working alongside time-served specialists in the trade,” said Rhys. “I want to move forward within the company, providing professional services and also provide future apprentices with the skills and opportunities I have been so lucky to have.”

Rhys has also introduced a number of new ideas to improve the business, including job sheets that can be sent to mobile phones, making logging jobs easier and quicker.

He studied at The College Ystrad Mynach, gaining an NVQ Level 3 in Mechanical Engineering (Plumbing) and has also taken extra qualifi cations to boost his skills at evening classes.

Rhys, who is studying an Apprenticeship in Mechanical Engineering Services – Plumbing, will eventually become a fully-qualifi ed Electrical Engineer and Mechanical Engineer.

Spurred on by his son’s success, Rhys’ father Paul, who was a welder/fabricator, has also now retrained as a Mechanical Engineer. He has been taken on by Brecongate, often working with Rhys.

Ryan Powell, Commercial Director for Brecongate, said “Rhys is an extremely hard working, trustworthy and competent individual who thrives on achieving the best possible goals in life. He is a highly motivated individual and is not only a credit to our organisation but also to the industry as well as being a great inspiration to the younger generation. I expect Rhys to go much further with his career and look forward to seeing what he achieves in the future.”

Rhys West busy at work.


Cymru 2011

20

Mercure Swansea Hotel

Valuing staff ensures they in turn value customers, which is imperative within the competitive hospitality and hotel industry.

Mercure Swansea Hotel established its apprenticeship

scheme to enhance opportunities

and demonstrate commitment to existing and new staff.

“The scheme allows employees to learn and progress within their role and enable them to grow as an individual both in work skills, social skills and career opportunities,” said Lynne Huxtable, HR Manager.

“It was also established as a valuable recruitment tool as we always want hard working and dedicated staff members, so we would ask that staff who we recruit show willingness to go on an apprenticeship programme to demonstrate commitment and

dedication to both the hospitality industry and the hotel.”

The hotel currently has 10 apprentices and has recruited and trained 26 over the past fi ve years. They work and train in areas such as customer service, professional cookery, hospitality supervision and leadership, business administration and kitchen services.

The hotel appoints a mentor to each apprentice who works within the same area of the business and who has completed an apprenticeship themselves.

“All of our apprentices have demonstrated a great deal of improvement throughout the programme. Many have overcome shyness with the support of the always polite, calm and approachable assessors,” added Lynne.

“All of the staff who have completed their qualifi cations have increased their career opportunities and many staff who have done so have been promoted.”

“It was also established as a valuable

Mercure Swansea Hotel’s HR Manager Lynne

Huxtable with apprentice Lyndsey Phelps and

training provider Mark Stevens from Babcock.

opportunities and demonstrate

Medium Employerof the Year

Winner


Cymru 2011Employer Finalists

21

BT Local Business

(Leading Edge Group Limited)

Leading Edge Group Limited of Cardiff is the BT Local Business franchise holder for South Wales. Customer service is top of its priorities

in order to win new and repeat business as well as protecting its brand.

Currently employing 18 apprentices, the company has an aggressive growth plan and wanted to give young people a chance of employment at a time when they are struggling to fi nd work.

“It is essential our apprentices live the core values of our company and the people we have employed all understand the need to exceed

customers’ expectations,” said Hazel Payne, Sales Director.

“The benefi ts to us of offering apprenticeships are numerous and we have found that we can mould our apprentices

into competent, committed employees by developing the core skills we need to be successful in our business. And seeing our apprentices grow in confi dence and develop their skills is very rewarding.”

The company provides each apprentice between the ages of 16 and 18 years with access to an independent life coach as well as an advisor from its learning provider, Acorn, who supports the delivery of the formal apprenticeship qualifi cation.

They can also access the same fi nancial awards and incentives as their other colleagues.

“Our apprentices are at varying stages of their apprenticeships, but already we are seeing their knowledge grow, which undoubtedly helps them when providing guidance to our customers,” added Hazel.

Hazel Payne of BT Local

Business with apprentice

Craig Shingler.

Employer FinalistsApprenticeship Awards

Cymru 2011

22

Monmouthshire Housing

Association Limited

Learning off-the job and in the workplace ensures apprentices gain from their academic studies while learning from the experience

of their work mentors at Monmouthshire Housing Association.

With 14 apprentices currently working in a range of apprenticeship frameworks, including plumbing and heating, electrical, painting and decorating, plastering, carpentry, roofi ng, and business administration, the housing association believes apprenticeships are key to the success of

the business, which has 3,600 properties in its portfolio.

“We fi nd that apprenticeships are particularly benefi cial in roles that lend themselves to learning both off-the job and in the workplace,” said HR Manager Karen Williams. “For example, one of the most

important abilities of our trade staff is to interact with our tenants whilst working in their homes. This can only be learned on the job.”

The association has also dramatically reduced the turnover of apprentices since it transferred from the local authority and established its own apprenticeship recruitment process.

“In the last three and a half-years only one apprentice has left our scheme compared to four leaving in a similar period in the previous scheme – an improvement of 75 per cent,” added Karen.

The association, which has been able to offer permanent employment to all of its apprentices on completion of their qualifi cation, works in partnership with its contractors to secure apprenticeship placements and rotates apprentices to enable them to gain the relevant experience for their qualifi cation.

the business, which has 3,600 properties

Apprentice carpenter James Bannister with his

mentor Lester Parry, Monmouthshire Housing

Association’s operations manager.



23

Kronospan Limited

The introduction of a dedicated apprenticeship programme at Kronospan Limited, the world’s largest manufacturer of wood panel products and laminate fl ooring, has resulted in apprentice recruitment being

embedded into the core of the

company’s business plan.

Eight years ago the Chirk-based business took on its fi rst six apprentices – and it hasn’t looked back since, citing work-based learning as the future of engineering training.

“We needed to address the age profi le or our existing workforce and

overcome ongoing recruitment diffi culties,” said Ben Hipkiss, HR Manager at Kronospan.

Today, the company aims to recruit an average of six apprentices a year, with many more applicants than positions due to the high regard that the company’s apprenticeship programme has in the area.

The company provides a wide range of support to its apprentices and offers apprenticeships to mature individuals who are not in a position to return to college full-time.

The company has recruited 40 apprentices, of which 33 are still employed by Kronospan. Many of these are being developed to become engineers, team leaders and mentors of the future.

“We believe that work-based learning is the future of engineering training, both in terms of our apprenticeship programme and the ongoing development of our existing workforce,” added Ben.

“As a company we are aware that our greatest resource is our employees and we have made the commitment to their continuing personal development despite the fi nancial constraints that most businesses face in the current economic climate.”

Kronospan HR Manager Ben Hipkiss (centre) with apprentices Ryan Ankers

(left) and Ben Edwards.

company’s business plan.

Large Employerof the Year

Winner


Cymru 2011

24

Airbus

Investing in employee skills and developing the workforce is essential when it comes to keeping ahead of competitors and that’s why Airbus invests heavily in its apprenticeship programme.

As one of the world’s leading aerospace manufacturers, being at the cutting edge is crucial and staff have to be trained to the highest standards.

This year, Airbus is challenging the current thinking around higher level skills within its apprenticeship programme with the development of an innovative model that is a true alternative to university.

In what is believed to be one of the most dynamic and comprehensive programmes of its kind, Airbus Higher Apprentices will have the chance to achieve a full BEng with Hons in Aeronautical Engineering Manufacture within the normal three-year apprenticeship.

“Our Higher Apprentices will not only achieve a foundation degree, a foundation PEO, an NVQ Level 4 in Engineering Leadership, but also a full BEng with Honours,” said Gary Griffi ths, Head of Apprenticeship Programmes for Airbus in the UK.

Airbus works with its employees, trade unions and providers to ensure it has the right level of skills to meet delivery and new technology challenges head on. In the past fi ve years it has taken on 850 apprentices.

“The results we have so far achieved demonstrate that the strategy we have embarked on is working. We have a growing order book and in 2010 we made 510 aircraft deliveries to 94 customers. Without the apprenticeships and the high level of training this requires, it would not have been possible to have achieved these fi gures,” added Gary.Gary Griffi ths, Head of Apprenticeship

Programmes for Airbus in the UK.



25

Newport City Homes

Newport City Homes (NCH) wanted to deliver more than just good quality homes when it was formed in 2009 following the transfer of housing from Newport City Council. It wanted to make a difference to the community.

It established an apprenticeship programme to provide training and jobs for local people in the city and, as a result, has taken on more than 40 apprentices to date. This year, 11 places were advertised and more than 200 applications were received.

“Historically, build contracts have stipulated the number of apprentice places required for the period of the contract as opposed to the period of training,” said Frances Maclean, Apprentice Co-ordinator at NCH.

“To show our commitment we decided to employ the apprentices directly and then place them with our partner contractors. This ensured that our objectives could be met, in particular control over pay and conditions,

a consistent approach to learning and skills and the fl exibility to move our apprentices between all our contracts so that they received the right experience.”

NCH provides dedicated management support and its apprentices are on terms and conditions exceeding industry standards. It also provides access to extended learning opportunities through its in-house training programme, ensuring apprentices have maximum opportunities.

John Harrhy, an NCH Board member, added: “We believe that, through our support, our apprentices are given the best opportunity to make a difference for themselves and their community. We are pleased that the apprentice programme is making a real contribution to the lives of young people and their families, as well as helping towards the establishment of a skilled workforce in the Newport area.”

Frances Maclean, Apprentice Co-

ordinator at Newport City Homes,

with apprentice Joshua Downing.


Cymru 2011

27

Impressed by high standard of candidates for awards.Ray Edwards, Director of Sales, Pearson Work Based Learning.

“Pearson is delighted to sponsor the Apprenticeship Awards Cymru 2011 and the National Training Federation Wales 2011 Conference.

We at Pearson believe passionately in helping people make progress in their lives through learning. With more than 150 apprentices in our workforce, we have a unique insight into apprenticeships from an employer perspective allowing us to design and tailor our BTEC Apprenticeships to support individual business needs.

We offer the largest selection of work-based learning related qualifi cations to employers and learning providers in the UK.

Our BTEC Apprenticeships make delivery much more time and cost effi cient. We offer a fully-integrated solution that is supported by an extensive range of resources, including the recently launched free sector-specifi c BTEC Apprenticeship Delivery Guides and Assessment Workbooks.

The Apprenticeship Awards candidates this year were of an extremely high standard and varied across all ages and sectors. The overall winner indicates the strength of apprenticeship delivery in Wales.”

Apprenticeships


Cymru 2011Pearson

Ray Edwards,

Director of Sales, Pearson

28

Our Sponsors

ITEC Training Solutions is one of the largest and most successful independent Training and Welfare to Work providers in Wales, providing opportunities across many pathways. The organisation provides end-to-end solutions for learners of all ages post 16, therefore making a significant contribution to the skills

agenda and also the economic regeneration of the communities it serves. The organisation works closely with the Welsh Government and Jobcentre Plus to deliver quality government funded traineeships, Steps to Employment and Apprenticeship programmes.

Website: www.itectraining.com

Media Wales is the leading news and information provider across Wales.

Its daily titles are the Western Mail - the national newspaper of Wales, and The South Wales Echo, whose circulation footprint is centred on Cardiff. The Wales on Sunday newspaper is unrivalled for its strong sports coverage while the seven Celtic weekly newspapers – which include such iconic

titles as the Merthyr Express and the Rhondda Leader – remain at the heart of valleys life.

WalesOnline.co.uk has quickly established itself as the country’s leading news and commercial website with more than a million unique users each month.

Website: www.mediawales.co.uk

Award Sponsor:

Media Partner:

Our special thanks go to Media Wales for all their help and support in promoting the Apprenticeship Awards Cymru.

Table Sponsor:

Documents

· 2011. 11. 28. · filtering nearly 100 applications from all parts of Wales and selecting 19 finalists. The judges were Ray Edwards, ... and catering, electrical, plumbing, hairdressing,