Ideal Standard is set to announce a number of fully-funded apprenticeship places to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) during Installer Show 2024. The company will be at stand 4F13.
Through the apprenticeships, those selected will receive fully-accredited installation qualifications for the installer trade, with training delivered by a CIPHE-recognised training provider.
In addition to fully funding the apprenticeships, Ideal Standard said it will be providing one to one support to the SMEs throughout the process, assisting with recruitment, training, onboarding of the apprentice and on-the-job support from its team of service engineers.
Ideal Standard stated that SMEs and apprentices will be able to visit its UK sites and receive factory tours, to see the manufacturing of Ideal Standard’s ceramic ranges, how the business works and the full supply chain process.
Businesses can enter the giveaway by completing a short quiz and application form, or by signing up at Ideal Standard’s stand with entry open to companies wanting to sign up an apprentice for an industry-specific qualification.
One winner will be announced on day one and two of Installer Show during the ‘Bathrooms and Beers’ sessions at the BMA theatre starting at 4.00pm, with a third winner announced at the BMA theatre at 3.00pm on day three. A panel of judges made up of Ideal Standard and Bathroom Manufacturers Association representatives will review and select the companies.
Jo Edwards, channel director, residential and trade, said: “Apprentices and SMEs are the backbone of the installation and plumbing sector, and we want to make sure the next generation of installers have the investment they need to flourish.
“It’s key for us to work closely with SMEs and installers to support the sector, understand current trends and ways of working, and make a real difference.”
Tom Reynolds, CEO of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, added: “Apprenticeship initiatives like this are vital to helping the KBB and installation industry become more attractive to young people across the UK.
“The extra steps Ideal Standard is taking to support apprentices and SMEs with access to its manufacturing plants and on-the-job support are key to futureproofing the industry and attracting new and diverse talent.”