The trade fabricator Glazerite continues to support apprentices, having hired its “largest ever cohort”. Rob Brearley, managing director for Glazerite UK Group, said: “We’ve got our largest ever cohort of apprentices on board, and every one of them is making their mark on our business. Our scheme covers every business function and includes a fair wage, relevant qualifications and off-the-job training and mentoring, giving each apprentice opportunities across Glazerite.”
The business currently has eight apprentices working across technical, purchasing, IT, marketing and HR departments. Those apprentices include 18-year-old Matthews Joshy, for whom the Glazerite team created a tailored role after impressing them at interview. Matthews sais: “I chose to do an apprenticeship with Glazerite because they are stable and ambitious. I was initially looking to do an administrative role but I’m now working in a technical role, which is really pushing me to develop new skills and is giving me a great foundation for my career in fenestration.”
Sophie Toseland, the business’ HR and marketing apprentice reported: “I knew I wanted to work in business but it’s hard to know what area to focus on until you’ve had some experience. My role is helping me gain knowledge and insight across both functions, which will help me to make a more informed decision about my future career.”
George Willdig, 22, joined Glazerite as an apprentice IT administrator last year. He said: “I chose to do an apprenticeship as I believe that the IT industry is more focused on experience than diplomas and degrees. I’m really enjoying it and have learned a lot already.”
Lewis Montgomery, 19, is an apprentice purchasing administrator at Glazerite’s north west division. He is currently working towards his Level 3 NVQ in business administration. “I chose an apprenticeship as a way to earn while I learn and build my confidence,” he said. “I love working for Glazerite. It’s a great place to learn all aspects of purchasing alongside other business areas.”
Twenty-two-year-old Joshua Mann is working towards completing his Level 3 apprenticeship in digital marketing. He said: “Doing an apprenticeship has significantly helped to jumpstart my career. I joined Glazerite as I knew I would be able to gain lots of hands-on experience and grow my understanding of marketing through the expertise of my colleagues. I would highly recommend the apprenticeship route to others.”
Robert Suttle, 24, has just completed his apprenticeship and has been placed in a purchasing role. “I have gained so many different skills, including my ability to think critically and to analyse data, which will really help me succeed in my career,” he said. “Glazerite has been a fantastic employer and really supportive.”
Rob, Glazerite‘s MD concluded: “The age range of our current cohort of apprentices is from 16 through to 32, which demonstrates the value of the programme. It’s great to watch all of our apprentices grow in both knowledge and confidence. We have some great talent to work with as we continue to grow as a business and will certainly continue with apprenticeships going forward.”
