The first cohort of modern apprentices in a pioneering Angus scheme has begun its journey up the construction industry ladder.
The Angus Shared Apprentice Programme (ASAP) was formed just last month as a new company set up with the support of D&A College, Angus Council and local employers.
It has already recruited 10 modern apprentices, who can be hired out in an innovative short-term sharing scheme focused towards smaller local firms.
The aim of ASAP, which is also supported by the Construction Industry Training Board, is to allow young people to complete a full apprenticeship programme by working with a number of different employers while they are training.
Those behind the initiative hope that will ensure that the trainees can finish their training, as well as helping companies who cannot commit to taking on an apprentice for four years.
“ASAP is aimed at companies who have not taken on an apprentice before, and also SMEs employing under 25 people,” said Kevin Murphy, director of curriculum, further education and skills at D&A College.
“By developing ASAP as an actual employer, we ensure that people aged 16 to 19 can embark on a modern apprenticeship, receive a wage and finish their training while, at the same time, offering employers the chance to hire an extra pair of hands when they hit a busy spell either for three or six months.
“Companies in the construction business looking for an extra pair of hands can apply to college and take on someone for three month or six months, costing the apprentice’s wages plus 20%,” added Mr Murphy.
The modern apprentices start their training with four weeks at college, specialising from day one in brickwork, carpentry and joinery, painting and decorating or roof slating and tiling.
At present all their college training is done on the Arbroath campus where in their first year they will spend a total of 19 weeks.
That reduces to 12 weeks in the second year and the trainees will spend only one week at college in the third and fourth year of their modern apprenticeship.
Employers keen to take on a shared apprentice should contact Kate Adamson at k.adamson@dundee-andangus.ac.uk or call (01241) 432642.
Photo by Angus Pictures