<p>To gain a rounded understanding of what apprenticeships involve, we chatted with Vicky, Compliance Manager from <a href="https://britanniawindows.co.uk/">Britannia Windows</a> to explore the value apprentices bring to their business, as well as what students take away from the experience!</p><p><strong>1) What types of apprentices do </strong><a href="https://britanniawindows.co.uk/"><strong>Britannia Windows</strong></a><strong> take on?</strong></p><p><em>Our business has many different areas, from Admin to Accounts and even practical skills in Manufacturing and out on-site Installations. The window industry is ever changing and growing with new products and regulations that staff need to learn, and apprenticeships give a good base knowledge to young people looking to start in our industry, or even if they aren't sure what they would like to do!</em></p><p><strong>2) How do these apprentices benefit your business?</strong></p><p><em>Apprentices often comes to us straight from school or another college course, so they are a blank canvas ready to learn! We've found they are adaptable and like to challenge themselves. We look for dynamic people who want to progress and stay within our company.</em></p><p><strong>3) What does the application and recruitment process look like when hiring apprentices?</strong></p><p><em>We always come through Weston college as they offer a smooth and easy to use process. They help with advertising the positions and pre-screening applications. It's a straightforward process that just works well!</em></p><p><strong>4) What sort of support do you receive from Weston College during this hiring process?</strong></p><p><em>The staff who support the process are friendly and helpful. They always work on the best interests of the student and the employer to make sure it runs smoothly and both sides are happy.</em></p><p><strong>5) What kind of support do you receive from Weston College during the student's apprenticeship?</strong></p><p><em>There is always someone to contact if we have any questions. The tutors keep in touch with the apprentice to make sure they are on track and schedule meetings with the apprentice's line manager, so we are all on the same page.</em></p><p><strong>6) Are there any standout success stories of past or current apprentices at </strong><a href="https://britanniawindows.co.uk/"><strong>Britannia Windows</strong></a><strong>?</strong></p><p><em>Yes! We have several ex-apprentice's still with us! Some have moved up to management roles and others have moved departments within the business to continue to development and learn new skills in different areas! We currently have a new apprentice who is exceeding expectations as someone who has never worked in an office before!</em></p><p><strong>7) How do apprenticeships benefit the apprentices in the long run, beyond just earning a qualification?</strong></p><p><em>Apprenticeships are not just about the qualifications, but they allow the student to experience real life situations. Part of the employer's role is to guide the young person and help them learn and grow in all areas, not just academically. We work hard to support our team to achieve and develop, even after they have finished their apprenticeship, as you never stop learning in our industry!!</em></p><p><strong>8) What would you say to any businesses considering taking on an apprentice?</strong></p><p><em>If you need dedicated and well-trained staff, then apprenticeships are a really good tool to achieve this in the long term. Investing in young people helps build confidence and as you support them, they become great team members who will continue to grow with your business.</em></p><p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/employers"><strong>If you would like to find out how to bring an apprentice into your business, click here!</strong></a></p>

<p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Thomas, a former Weston College student, is excelling in the engineering and manufacturing industry. Now working at the National Composites Centre (NCC), Thomas reflects on his journey, from his time at Weston College to being shortlisted for the prestigious Make UK Awards.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Thomas began his academic journey at Weston College in 2021, pursuing a </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships/engineering-a…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships/engineering-a…; target="_blank">Level 3 Diploma in Composites Engineering</a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> and gaining a solid foundation in the field of advanced materials. Once completed in 2024, Thomas advanced to a Level 4 Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) apprenticeship with the NCC.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">At the NCC, Thomas has engaged in a variety of projects, shadowing advanced technicians and gaining hands-on experience. Beyond the technical aspects, he has worked with organisations like BBC Bitesize and the Gatsby Charity to promote engineering and manufacturing apprenticeships.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Thomas’ hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed. The National Composites Centre nominated him for the Make UK Awards in the Manufacturing and Engineering category for final-year apprentices.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">To qualify, Thomas compiled a portfolio highlighting his achievements. This was followed by an interview to delve deeper into his apprenticeship experience. Reflecting on the moment he was shortlisted, Thomas said:&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">“When I found out I had been shortlisted, I was shocked but very proud. It was validating to see all my hard work and dedication acknowledged. I was also excited to represent my company at the award ceremony.”&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Looking ahead, Thomas plans to continue developing his skills and qualifications. He is currently pursuing a Level 4 apprenticeship and hopes to further enhance his practical expertise in the workshop. His focus is on seizing opportunities for training and expanding his ability to operate advanced equipment and machinery.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Grateful for the support he received from both Weston College and the NCC, Thomas encourages others to consider apprenticeships:&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">“I’m thankful and feel very fortunate to have been surrounded by such supportive people. Apprenticeships create a great environment for learning new skills and exploring different career paths.”&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Thomas’ story is a testament to the power of dedication, education, and the opportunities provided by apprenticeships. As he continues to make strides in his career, he serves as an inspiration for aspiring engineers and technicians.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">We’d like to congratulate Thomas for his hard work, and we wish you all the best in the future.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/engin…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/engin…; target="_blank">If you’re interested in applying for an Engineering Apprenticeship, click here.</a></p>

<p style="margin-bottom:8px;">Ewan, a <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; target="_blank">Hospitality and Catering Apprentice</a>, has been working hard during his placement at COR Restaurant, where his dedication and growth have not gone unnoticed. Over the past six months, Ewan’s efforts and professionalism have impressed the team at COR so much that they took to social media to celebrate his achievements.</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;">In a glowing post, the restaurant described Ewan as a polite professional and highlighted his enthusiasm, team spirit, and hunger to learn. They praised his initiative, noting his ability to create a delicious tiramisu and expressing excitement for his continued development in 2025.</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;">Ewan is in his second year of a <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; target="_blank">Level 2 Hospitality and Catering Apprenticeship</a> with Weston College and shared insights about his journey so far. He described his apprenticeship as highly educational and credited COR Restaurant for providing a welcoming environment where the team’s kindness and support have helped him grow. One of his favourite aspects of the experience has been learning from the talented chefs he works alongside, an opportunity he believes has significantly boosted his skills, knowledge, and confidence.</p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Hospitality and Catering Apprentice, Ewan, at COR restaurant&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8bf39fa6-be4a-44be-b9d6-cf49274cdda9" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_500x500&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity><p style="margin-bottom:8px;">&nbsp;</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;">Ewan chose his apprenticeship because it offered the practical, hands-on experience he needed to thrive in the catering industry. He values the supportive nature of his workplace and colleagues, who have helped him navigate any challenges that arise. Reflecting on his time at Weston College, he commended the staff and praised the excellent kitchen facilities, which have further enriched his learning experience.</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;">For those considering an apprenticeship, Ewan emphasised the importance of having a genuine passion for the field. He encouraged future learners to pursue apprenticeships if they are clear about their interests and career aspirations, as the experience provides invaluable real-world learning and growth opportunities.</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;">Ewan’s journey so far stands as a testament to how dedication, curiosity, and the right support can set the stage for a bright future in the hospitality industry.</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;">Thank you to COR Restaurant for giving Ewan this opportunity and providing him with a supportive, hands-on environment that is encouraging his growth and building confidence in his ability.</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;"><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; target="_blank">If you are interested in applying for a Hospitality and Catering Apprenticeship, click here.</a></p>