Apprentices start long road to success
An apprenticeship scheme to give young people an opportunity to make a career for themselves at a Black Country business is underway.
A.F Blakemore & Son have recruited five youngsters who they hope can now start a long and successful career at the company as part of their Logistics Apprenticeship Programme.
The scheme, which will recruit a further 10 apprentices in July, is aimed at developing people beyond the short-term objective of finding a job, by supporting and inspiring those who want to build a career in logistics or transport.
Kyle Smith, Jack Ball, Jai Barry, Jack Ansell and Jenny Davies have now all began their journey.
Blakemore Logistics General Manager Stewart Constable, said: “A.F. Blakemore has a history of developing the potential of young people.
"In fact, the new structure of the scheme has been created as a result of the successful apprentices we have worked with in the past.
“The programme offers support as well as the full commitment of A.F. Blakemore to deliver opportunities to those who wish to succeed.”
The apprenticeship scheme, which is anticipated to last 12 months, will train successful candidates in core warehouse skills, including assembling, loading and fork-lift truck driving.
Throughout the programme there will be set milestones to ensure the teams development and to enhance their understanding of the varying roles within the business.
There will also be the potential for the best of the bunch to move into a supervisory, managerial or driving role after completion of the initial programme.
New apprentice Jenny Davies commented on her experience of the programme so far: “I have found the scheme very informative and I have gained lots of knowledge about working in a warehouse.
"For example, I now know how to handle and assemble cages and how to accurately take stock.
“Before I started working here I was quite shy, but the family based atmosphere and the friendliness and support of the staff has boosted my confidence and development.
“I now want to learn as much as I can and gain a FLT license, with the hope of eventually progressing into a managerial role or even becoming a driver.”
Blakemore logistics warehouse manager Steve Morgan praised the new apprentices for their attentiveness and keenness to learn: “Whilst on the scheme the apprentices are not under pressure to perform, it is more about presenting the right attitude to learn and the willingness to contribute to the ongoing success of this company.”
A.F. Blakemore is recruiting 10 new apprentices onto its warehouse and distribution programme in July, October and February.
For further information contact Lesley Turner on 01922 651100 or email warehousing@ptp-training.co.uk.
