To mark the start of National Apprenticeship week, Pasquill, the largest manufacturer and supplier of Roof Trusses in the UK, is looking to tackle the industry’s skills shortage with the launch of its new apprenticeship scheme, funded by the Government’s Apprenticeship Levy.

National Apprenticeship Week is an annual week-long celebration that brings together employees and apprentices to celebrate the impact this kind of training has on individuals, employers and the economy.

Pasquill are in the process of recruiting two new Apprentice Designers in the first phase of the scheme, with a view to take on a further two or three candidates. Over the course of three years, trainees will work towards a Level 3 Engineering Design and Draughtsperson qualification from the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education. Within this programme a Level 3 BTEC certificate in Construction and the Built Environment is included.

The roles will be based at Pasquill’s Design Centres, Huddersfield and Redhill, with off-site training at Barnsley College for periods of up to 10 weeks. This training will give Apprentices the foundation, knowledge and skills required to their role.

In addition, Pasquill also offers work experience for students who are still in full time education. This experience provides students a valuable insight into the industry and the skills needed to succeed in the future.

Jannette Walker, HR Manager of Pasquill said: “Research shows a distinct lack of technical skills in the Timber industry, with a 47% gap in the current workforce, and skills shortages reported at 70% from the pools in which companies recruit from .

“What’s more, there is a lack of young people entering the sector and a higher proportion of older workers than other sectors. With this in mind, we are proud to launch an initiative such as this. I anticipate our apprenticeship scheme will help bridge the skills gap and give young people a head start in their careers.

“The launch of our apprenticeship scheme aims to help us grow our own talent, and we’re keen to nurture and mentor young people throughout their training and beyond.

“Applicants don’t need any previous qualifications or experience – we are simply looking for candidates with the right attitude and a desire to learn more about technical design. On completion of the apprenticeship there will be further opportunities for the Apprentices to learn and develop their career within Pasquill.”

For more information on Pasquill’s apprenticeship scheme please contact Jannette Walker on 07717 856222, or email jannette.walker@pasquill.co.uk.