7th February 2022

This week (7th – 11th February), our team will be celebrating National Apprenticeship Week alongside our peers in the construction sector.

Apprenticeships are a great way to recruit and retain new members of our team, at whatever stage they are in their career and we currently have several apprenticeship opportunities available.

Indeed, in the past few years we have supported apprentices in a range of specialisms, some of whom came straight from school and others who accessed the scheme after changing careers or wanting to upskill.

But what are the seven main benefits of an apprenticeship at Van Elle?

  1. Earn while you learn, from the best in the business
  2. Gain a recognised qualification
  3. Receive ongoing and personalised mentoring
  4. Gain real-world work experience
  5. Improve your employability
  6. Develop and refine your skills
  7. Gain experience in your chosen sector

We asked some of our apprentices (past and present) and mentors for their view.

Mustafaa McDonald, a Civil Engineering Apprentice in our Housing team, said “Working for Van Elle has given me the best kickstart to my career. Working here provides a very broad experience, which allows for various learning opportunities.”

Tom Foster, a Marketing & Communications Officer at Van Elle, added: “Apprenticeships are an excellent way to begin or change the direction of your career and are an opportunity to develop as an individual.

“Different subjects and levels of apprenticeship are available, and I’d highly recommend looking at what’s available in your area of interest.”

Jono Wright, Engineering Manager for ground investigation specialists Strata Geotechnics, said: “I was supported so well when I started out and I feel duty-bound to pass on my experience to help guide those who are new to the industry.”

Lewis Yates, a Design Engineer at Van Elle, added: “I know first-hand what it’s like when you first start out, finding the best way of doing things and planning your career can be daunting, but gaining advice from someone who has been where you are is so beneficial. It’s the main reason I’m always keen to mentor new members of our team.”

Interested in applying for one of our current apprentice positions? Visit the careers page of our site here.