As the UK celebrates the 14th National Apprenticeship Week (8-14 February), Tarmac announces it is offering two apprenticeships at its Aberthaw site in 2021.
Aberthaw Cement Works, which has operated near Barry for more than 108 years, is offering two apprenticeships, starting in September – one in the mechanical department and one in electrical.
The theme of the 2021 National Apprenticeship Week is ‘Build the Future’. The campaign encourages everyone to consider how apprenticeships can help individuals to develop the skills and knowledge required for a rewarding career, and employers to build a workforce with future ready skills.
Josh Tait, 26 and from Barry, is now in his fourth and last year of his mechanical apprenticeship at Aberthaw Works. He gives his view of the benefits of the Tarmac apprenticeship. “I got to know the site and the company first of all through school holiday work experience. In 2017 I secured an apprenticeship and since then I have been learning every day.
“The apprenticeship offers you loads of benefits – you learn so much working hands on with the more experienced team members on site. It’s hard work but they all make it enjoyable and are always supportive. I can go to any of my colleagues if I have concerns or questions. We’ve had to adapt our way of working on site to ensure everything is Covid-secure, but this hasn’t stopped my training. I would recommend the apprenticeship to anyone thinking of applying.”
Stuart Escott, Aberthaw Plant manager adds: “We are delighted to be able to continue to offer these opportunities at Aberthaw this year. Our apprentices have personalised training and clear development, tailored to their strengths and ambitions. We look forward to receiving applicants for this year’s intake.”
Each apprenticeship will last four years with all recruits starting with a year of vocational training at a local college. Years 2-4 are mainly based at the Aberthaw site, with one day per week spent in college.
And for those applying for a Tarmac apprenticeship, they are looking not only at a comprehensive four-year scheme, but also beyond to the potential of an ongoing career with the company.
For more information about the Aberthaw apprenticeships, please go to www.tarmaccareers.com
Tarmac is a member of the 5% Club, a movement of employers providing ‘earn and learn’ opportunities to develop the skills and talents people need to become more employable and create meaningful careers. For more information please visit www.tarmaccareers.com.
Caption: Fourth year mechanical apprentice Josh Tait in the engineering workshop at Tarmac’s Aberthaw Works.