Building on the success of its LGV Driver Apprenticeship Scheme, Fowler Welch is extending the scheme to Warehouse Operator and Supply Chain Operator roles.
The Driver Apprenticeship Scheme began in 2017 and has so far delivered 16 fully qualified new LGV drivers permanently employed with the business, with a further 13 drivers currently gaining their qualification.
Due to this success, it will return with a new cohort in April 2019, this time extending the training scheme to Warehouse Operators and Supply Chain Operators in order to continue attracting new talent into different areas of the industry.
In addition to the LGV Driver roles, the Warehouse Operator and Supply Chain Operator roles will include regular on-the-job team and 1-2-1 training as well as ‘buddy’ support sessions and, once the 12 month programme is complete, will result in a Level 2 nationally recognised qualification, as well as Level 1 qualifications in both English and Maths.
Jo Polhill, Apprenticeship Scheme Manager said: “So far, the Driver Apprenticeship Scheme has resulted in a number of enthusiastic, highly trained and skilled additions to our driving teams across our depots. Some of the results we’ve seen from our apprentice drivers include lower fuel consumption (indicating responsible driving behaviours) as well as 89% of apprentices achieving at least a ‘C’ rating compared to the group average of ‘D’, so we were keen to replicate this standard across other areas of the business.
“The extension of the scheme is part of our ongoing aim to be an Employer of Choice and shows our commitment to developing talent and supporting succession planning, as well as improving the diversity of our workforce and the industry as a whole. We very much look forward to welcoming our new recruits on board.”
In order to continue the drive for the highest quality training and qualification standards, Fowler Welch has entered into a partnership with third party training provider The Real Apprenticeship Company (TRAC) to deliver the development framework for our new apprentices. TRAC has a strong background in talent management, with 80% of its learners based in the logistic sector.
There will be 24 new job roles available across depots which have the infrastructure in place to develop the apprentices and provide them with permanent employment after completion of the programme.