Westco is launching a fully paid apprenticeship for 18-21-year-olds.
Under the scheme, Westco will appoint three young adults to complete a 15-month City & Guilds accredited business administration course. It is hoped that the ‘Westco Academy’ will not only provide on-the-job learning, training and qualifications but, more importantly, the first step towards a long and successful career in the industry.
The apprentices will spend three months in each of Westco’s warehouse, sales, production, accounts, and procurement departments, so they can find out more about the business and the type of career path they would like to pursue.
Pre-set learning outcomes for the candidates have been established to ensure that the expertise they gain at Westco is in line with their college qualification.
They will also receive regular assessments by their college tutor and Westco operations manager, Darren Mercer.
Darren said: “The scheme is a particular passion of mine, having benefited myself from many years working my way up within the business.
“We hope the initiative will provide young adults with the skills they need to succeed, while at the same time, helping to build a pipeline of young talent that will benefit the industry for years to come. Ultimately, by nurturing tomorrow’s heating and plumbing professionals today, we’re investing in the long-term success of our business, and the needs and expectations of our customers and employees.”
Once the initial 15-month course is complete, Darren will sit down with the candidates to discuss their preferred career path and match their needs to the needs of Westco.