The Williams Apprentices

Posted on Monday 15 Feb 2010

The Brief
Newbury College Business Development team has worked with Williams for over five years delivering the ‘Engineering Apprenticeship’ programme and has proved to be an invaluable and cost-effective method of training new recruits for the company.

The Strategy
The Apprenticeship programme has been developed to incorporate specific engineering modules, relevant to the engineering skill set at Williams. The assessment of the qualification has also been structured towards the revised engineering modules. Newbury College Employer Engagement Coordinator, Roland Wise and Williams A1 Assessor, Ian Carroll, are in constant contact throughout the four year programme to ensure the training is administered and monitored correctly to enable the apprentices to complete their apprenticeship qualification successfully.

The Conclusion
Ian Carroll speaks highly of the bespoke Apprenticeship programme and said, “In collaboration with Newbury College, we have put in place an excellent training programme for our apprentices at Williams. They work closely with our highly skilled team and are rotated around the various different departments in the factory to give the most comprehensive skill base possible. The Apprenticeship programme is a fantastic opportunity for any young person and one to be envied.” He also commented on the standard of training given by Newbury College staff, “The training given by Newbury College is very comprehensive and the high standard of training will hopefully ensure the apprentices a full time position with Williams once qualified. The facilities at Williams and Newbury College are second to none.”

Dean Hale is one of the youngest apprentices at Williams and was recently nominated for an award at the National Apprenticeship Awards 2010 in recognition for the difference he has made to the business. Dean has thoroughly enjoyed his training and said, “It’s a great opportunity and the experience has really helped my practical knowledge in the role. The practical work links in really well with the academic learning.”