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New apprentices have kickstarted their careers with community projects across the North West
Seddon has welcomed 16 new apprentices, increasing its apprenticeship numbers to a total of 60 currently employed across its workforce.
The apprentices have been selected from a pool of more than 1,200 applicants, with five women among the successful candidates – a record female intake for the business.
The intake includes joinery, bricklaying, painting and decorating, plastering, multi-skilled, electrical, plumbing and trainee quantity surveyor roles.
During an immersive induction week, designed to introduce the new recruits to Seddon’s values and operational practices, the apprentices participated in a two-day community project.
This involved contributing to initiatives in Bolton and Wigan – this year at Greenslate Community Farm in Wigan and Bolton CVS offices.
Following the induction, the apprentices have now embarked on training programmes at local colleges and universities, ensuring they receive both practical skills and industry-recognised qualifications.
Nicola Hodkinson, owner of Seddon, said: “As the industry grapples with a critical skills shortage, bringing in apprentices is more crucial than ever to bridge the gap.
“We’re proud our 2024 apprentice cohort has chosen to kickstart their careers at Seddon, where individuality is celebrated.
"I’m especially delighted to see many female applicants this year – a promising sign that women are increasingly making their mark in this industry.”
Seddon has recruited more than 460 apprentices (level 2/3 and level 6) over the past 23 years, with a 97% retention rate.
The contractor has also facilitated the placement of a further 12 apprentices within its supply chain partners.
Working in tandem with CITB, Seddon has secured £70k in college funding, enabling a number of its supply chain partners to become apprentice employers for the first time.
The contractor has also facilitated three pre-employability programmes, benefiting a total of 51 learners, and generating 17 employment opportunities for trainees.
