It's the final day of National Apprenticeship Week and we're looking at two other businessess VINCI and ScotRail, who offer the DofE to their apprentices.
VINCI UK
“I didn’t realise how much it would affect my life. It’s about going above and beyond what’s expected, and that’s what employers like to see. The DofE shows you’ve put in time and dedication.”
Alex English, VINCI apprentice
VINCI incorporated DofE Business into its employee development programme in 2010. VINCI gives young people from every corner of the business the opportunity to do their DofE, including apprentices, trainees, graduates and under grads, which has allowed the company to develop strong internal networks with young recruits.
VINCI has a three-way charity partnership with the DofE, Construction Youth Trust and the Prince's Trust giving apprentices the chance to work on projects with these charities for their Volunteering section, as part of their DofE. These projects include going into schools to pass on skills and experience, giving insights into careers in the construction industry to those still in education.
John Stanion, Chairman and CEO of VINCI UK, believes this is a chance for the industry to come together and support a highly treasured Charity with a track record of changing lives. “What we are committed to is investing in our people to ensure that they improve their employability prospects.”
“I’ve learned a lot about team-working and it has challenged my self-perceptions. When you’re in an expedition team you are forced to get on with people in fairly demanding circumstances. After five days you learn a lot about tolerance!"
James Walsh, Graduate Trainee Construction Manager, VINCI
Scotrail
ScotRail’s Award-winning apprenticeship in customer service is the first of its kind in the rail industry. Eleven new recruits began the 18 month programme in 2011, which will equip the young staff with an SVQ Level 2 in Customer Service and their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
The apprentices are trained at Scotrail’s training academy in Glasgow while completing placements in stations, on trains and in hospitality departments. The pioneering initiative to develop young talent has scooped the Best Business Newcomer title at the Scottish Modern Apprenticeship Awards 2011.
“Nurturing young talent is an excellent way of creating a highly skilled and loyal workforce.”
Steve Montgomery, Managing Director of Scotrail
For more information on National Apprenticeship Week go to www.apprenticeships.org.uk