Wickes has officially launched the apprenticeship scheme for kitchen installers, following a successful pilot.
With a recent rise in unemployment, together with people taking stock of how they want to develop their careers, this new programme is not just directed at young adults but provides an opportunity for those looking to explore the trade sector. With recent research from Wickes showing that 77% of tradespeople have more or the same amount of work as they did before COVID, it is clear the job pipeline and sector remains healthy.
Members of the company's Approved Installer Network for kitchens have therefore opened up their operations to apprentices, creating 48 apprenticeship places available with funded salaries from Wickes.
The programme will be split into cohorts of eight, the first of which goes live on 25 January 2021. Applications remain open for further groups due to launch throughout 2021. In addition, Wickes will recruit for new team leaders’ roles to manage each cohort's learning and development.
Created to invest in the industry, supporting an ageing trade population and changes to EU legislation that may impact availability of tradespeople; the Installation programme is a clear indication of the retailer’s commitment to the future, and the development and nurture of local talent.
Once selected, the new apprentices will embark on an 18-month programme. Eighty percent of their time will be spent on site with their installer, with the rest dedicated to formal training across seven block weeks. This will be provided by Nottingham-based WEBS Training Ltd, and focus on the technical aspects of fitting a kitchen, behaviour, customer services and setting up your own business.
On top of this, Wickes suppliers and industry regulators wil provide in-depth product knowledge, together with training on the importance of waste disposal as a responsible tradesperson.
The longer-term view of the programme is to have provided tools for the apprentices to be able to set up their own business within fitted furniture (carpentry) and understanding how this connects to other trades within the construction sector in order to provide a well-rounded and compelling local installation proposition for customers.
Tony Brown, Installations Director, at Wickes, said: “We’re giving back and supporting the industry we know well through our Approved Installer Network. Installation of kitchens is a very skilled job and we want to invest in people to help close any skills gap.
“There are many great careers to be had in this industry and opportunities for people in a sector that can be flexible around them or give them the opportunity to create a small business. I am really proud that we’re able to offer such a unique programme like this, we know the industry needs more skilled tradespeople and we hope this is just the beginning of a very successful and long running programme.”
Michael Hales, Installation Apprentice (Pilot Cohort) at Wickes, commented: “I’m currently halfway through the scheme, and I can say that this apprenticeship is truly one of a kind. It’s allowed me to gain new skills and confidence for my future career. I feel privileged to be part of this scheme, it has given me an opportunity of a lifetime to be hands on.
“Everything from the course, including the onsite WEBS training centre is outstanding, I had never heard of an apprenticeship like this before, even my friends are jealous of what I am doing and how supported I am through the programme.
“I feel excited to see what the future brings as I can see myself with my own van, tools and apprentice - carrying on kitchen fitting for the rest of my career. I really appreciate the opportunity that’s been given to me by Wickes.”
