National Apprenticeship Week 2024: Introducing Sumya Yesmin
05 Feb 2024In support of National Apprenticeship Week, we meet Sumya Yesmin, Apprentice Construction Site Supervisor at The Westbury Hotel.
7th February 2024
National Apprenticeship Week 2024 with Rachel Tonks
Explore apprenticeship opportunities in construction with Rachel Tonks, People Development - Business Partner.
This National Apprenticeship Week, we speak to Rachel Tonks about the importance of offering apprenticeships.
Our diverse range of apprenticeships are open to those at the beginning of their career along with those looking for continuous professional development.
Rachel says: “As a People Development - Business Partner, I work with colleagues to support their development plans. I work across all sectors to look at what training and development needs are required across our projects.
“I also coordinate what we deliver as a central business to our apprentices and our graduates. It’s a varied role that sees me working with people with diverse skills, backgrounds, and experiences.”
There are currently over 140 people completing apprenticeships across Sir Robert McAlpine, including engineers, QSs, and supervisors as well as accountants, HR, IT, Project Managers and Project Directors.
An apprenticeship involves working a full-time role with some time given to theoretical studies. The balance is carefully considered and those completing the apprenticeship are given support throughout.
Read more From Rachel Tonks, People Development - Business Partner at Sir Robert McAlpineAppetites for apprenticeships have changed so much over the years. I think now with university fees being what they are and the demand to have gained vocational experience, more young people are looking at apprenticeships as an option.
Appetites for apprenticeships have changed so much over the years. I think now with university fees being what they are and the demand to have gained vocational experience, more young people are looking at apprenticeships as an option.
And for those already in work it’s a great way to upskill without having to leave a job. Which also means that, as a business, we get to keep talent who may otherwise have left to pursue external development opportunities.
In 2020, Sir Robert McAlpine introduced the Data Analyst Apprenticeship for existing employees. The apprenticeship is open to those interested in learning how to code, develop new apps and how to automate everyday processes. The apprenticeship has been well received, 15 individuals having completed the apprenticeship so far and nine more currently enrolled.
Rachel said: “Offering a range of apprenticeships to people across all stages of their careers is important for many reasons. But one of the things we’ve noticed is that having someone on an apprenticeship reporting to a senior leader who is also doing an apprenticeship is really valuable. There’s a mutual understanding of the work that goes into it.”
Apply for an Apprenticeship
We offer a range of apprenticeship opportunities, delivered in partnership with education providers at a local level. View our new apprenticeship opportunities today and help us build a better world for future generations.
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