Learing The Ropes Via Every Possible Avenue – Apprentices All Round

June 21, 2012 - PRLog -- Alex Brown, 18 and Jamie Henderson, 19, both from Gateshead, were recently taken on by Slaters in apprentice roles which will see them mix hands-on experience with ongoing theory and learning at their local college.
The Blaydon-based company, which has been running its apprenticeship scheme for over 65 years, has seen approximately 62 trainees work their way through its ranks over the past six decades.
Designed to support a variety of different roles, from electrical fitters to specialist technicians, apprentices get the chance to spend six months in training before beginning their placements with Slaters.
Alex Brown said: “It’s a fantastic opportunity to be able to learn on the job - it's the ideal next step in my career which will allow me to work with a number of skilled people who can help me build up my industry skills and knowledge.”

Slaters work with a number of specialist training providers in the region who help facilitate the company’s apprenticeship scheme, including SETA (Sunderland Engineering Training Association Ltd), TNT (Tyne North Training) and TDR Training Ltd (Training and Development Resource Ltd), in association with Tyne Metropolitan College.

Slaters Electricals also owns MEC Electrical Contractors which is based in Sheffield and Birmingham, providing high quality and comprehensive installation and maintenance services.

Over the past two decades MEC has seen approximately 40 trainees work their way through the apprenticeship scheme.

Paul Shore, production manager at Slaters, said: “Our apprenticeship scheme has seen numerous young people flourish and develop into valuable members of our teams.
“To date, seven members of staff at Slaters have been presented with a long service award in honour of their company loyalty, having worked upwards of 25 years with Slaters and we hope this number will continue to grow.”
One of the firm’s longest serving employees Jim Storey said: “I’ve learnt a great deal since I started out here as an apprentice in 1970. Slaters have always been supportive of my progression and development within the company and I know the apprentices appreciate what a great opportunity this is, and will mature with the company as their placements progress.”