Aptus apprentices pass with flying colours

Four apprentices from Lancashire are celebrating after passing their course with distinctions and securing some of the highest marks in the UK.

Described as a ‘stellar’ cohort, each has been offered a permanent contract of employment with Aptus Utilities, which installs the critical infrastructure that provides water, gas and electricity to new build residential and commercial property developments.  Its clients include national housebuilders and regional builders of all sizes. 

The award-winning two-year apprenticeship scheme was devised by Bolton headquartered Aptus in 2015 to help tackle a severe skills shortage in the construction industry.

Combining on the job training and classroom learning, delivered by further education college Utility & Construction Training (UCT), it leads to nationally recognised qualifications.

In recognition of their results, the newly qualified apprentices were treated to a Bond-themed all expenses trip to London, where they travelled down the Thames in a speedboat before walking the red carpet and taking their seats at the premier of ‘No Time To Die’.

Adam Procter (18) from Preston said, “It feels amazing.  I’m overjoyed, especially as I’ve got a better mark than my brother who did the apprenticeship a couple of years ago!  I’ve learned so much and have really enjoyed the course – we grafted but we had a laugh, too.  I’m always talking about work with my mates.  I just love it. My dad and brother work at Aptus and feel the same – it’s a really good company that treats people really well.”

Aptus managing director Lisa Kerford commented, “Our sector is facing a severe skills shortage so we decided to address this head-on by creating our very own apprenticeship scheme. Basically, we’re growing our own talent. 

“We are big believers in apprenticeships and so far, have had over 40 young people train and qualify across a range of courses. They have gone on to enjoy careers as project managers, estimators, health and safety advisers, design engineers, electric jointers, gas engineers, warehouse operatives and business administrators.

“It’s so satisfying to see apprentices who’ve qualified in previous years now buddying up and helping the new starters in our latest intake.”

Steve Hyde, business development director at UCT, said: “UCT is delighted to have delivered training for the Aptus apprenticeship and it’s especially pleasing to hear of the exceptional results achieved from all apprentices within the group.

“The attitude and commitment of the learners has been excellent throughout the programme and, together with the proactive support from the Aptus management team, has resulted in this successful outcome.

“A special mention goes to Clinton Miles, the lead trainer for his dedication and efforts with the apprentices.”

On the day the ‘Class of 2019’ received their results, eight new apprentices arrived at Aptus HQ for their induction before starting their two-year apprenticeship.