News: July 2010
27/07/2010
Helping hands
Over 100 new apprenticeships are being created in the construction industry throughout Essex as part of Essex County Council’s pledge to create over 1,000 apprenticeships during the next two years.
Construction has been chosen as an area of special focus within the Essex Apprenticeship programme, as the challenging economic climate faced by the industry means companies may be unable to support an apprentice at present.
This project will support the construction industry in Essex by providing a 50% wage subsidy to employers who take on an apprentice.
Apprentices bring many benefits to businesses:
• Apprentices help businesses harness new talent to ensure it has the necessary skills for future growth
• Research shows that when qualified, apprentices are more likely to stay with their employer, have more drive and commitment, and often motivate their colleagues.
• Apprenticeships help to keep key specialist skills that are essential for the future of the industry alive and often bring new ideas and innovation to businesses
County councillor Kevin Bentley, member with responsibility for apprenticeships, said: “It’s vitally important for us as a county council to recognise and support industry sectors that help our economy to thrive.
“The effects of the 2008/2009 recession are still being keenly felt by companies operating in certain sectors and businesses are struggling to balance the needs of day-to-day demands and investment in the future. By offering apprenticeship places we are not only providing opportunities for young people and businesses throughout the county, but we are placing Essex on a path to a prosperous future.”
Following the success of Essex County Council’s engineering and manufacturing apprenticeship programme, which has seen 106 apprentices achieve an NVQ level two qualification with a large percentage securing permanent employment, Essex Apprenticeships will also be available in heating, refrigeration and ventilation, IT, aviation, the marine sector, ports and logistics and construction.
Businesses or apprentices who would like to find out more about any of the apprenticeships can visit
www.essex.gov.uk/essexapprentice.
Construction has been chosen as an area of special focus within the Essex Apprenticeship programme, as the challenging economic climate faced by the industry means companies may be unable to support an apprentice at present.
This project will support the construction industry in Essex by providing a 50% wage subsidy to employers who take on an apprentice.
Apprentices bring many benefits to businesses:
• Apprentices help businesses harness new talent to ensure it has the necessary skills for future growth
• Research shows that when qualified, apprentices are more likely to stay with their employer, have more drive and commitment, and often motivate their colleagues.
• Apprenticeships help to keep key specialist skills that are essential for the future of the industry alive and often bring new ideas and innovation to businesses
County councillor Kevin Bentley, member with responsibility for apprenticeships, said: “It’s vitally important for us as a county council to recognise and support industry sectors that help our economy to thrive.
“The effects of the 2008/2009 recession are still being keenly felt by companies operating in certain sectors and businesses are struggling to balance the needs of day-to-day demands and investment in the future. By offering apprenticeship places we are not only providing opportunities for young people and businesses throughout the county, but we are placing Essex on a path to a prosperous future.”
Following the success of Essex County Council’s engineering and manufacturing apprenticeship programme, which has seen 106 apprentices achieve an NVQ level two qualification with a large percentage securing permanent employment, Essex Apprenticeships will also be available in heating, refrigeration and ventilation, IT, aviation, the marine sector, ports and logistics and construction.
Businesses or apprentices who would like to find out more about any of the apprenticeships can visit
www.essex.gov.uk/essexapprentice.
Have Your Say
To comment on this news story please contact the editor via the online form.
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |















