In the last issue, Wired introduced the first intake to the FS Cables Apprentice Programme. The programme’s first candidate has now completed his training after 15 months and returned to sales. Such has been the success of the scheme, a new intake has been recruited.
The scheme is a Government backed national vocational programme which offers each apprentice the opportunity to study ‘on the job’ for a QCF (NVQ) level 2 qualification.
While they study, the apprentices undergo a rotational development programme, spending between one and three months in every department – from sales, purchasing, accounts, marketing – right through to warehouse and export.
The programme has also included a site visit to a local electrical wholesaler and an informative talk from the head of purchasing of a large electrical contractor with over forty years’ experience in the industry as well as visits to sites.
The scheme’s first graduate Jensen Smart has completed his training and has re-joined the sales team. Wired talked to him about his experiences.
“The opportunity to see first-hand how each department operates is a great experience” said Jensen. “It enabled me to understand much better the processes involved in providing a great service to our customers and the effort that goes into every order”.
“I think I enjoyed my time in purchasing the most. Purchasing and sales work very closely so it was great for me to be on the other end of the phone. It helps you empathise with the customer by putting yourself in their shoes”.
Jon Herbert, Director, added “the training programme has so far been a real success. Not only have the apprentices shown real enthusiasm they have already made valuable contributions to the business”.
He went on “I’m thankful to all members of staff who have helped make sure that the time spent on rotation has been of maximum benefit”.
“While not every young person starting the scheme has stayed with us, the core group are exactly what we need to grow the company. Those who have moved on have hopefully gained some valuable experience as well.”
If you are running or thinking of running an apprentice programme for your business and would like to share experiences, we’d be happy to chat it through with you: hr@fscables.com.