Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 32 THE door industry journal spring 2022 Industry News Pre-Apprenticeships at SWR SWR is proud to be part of the Pre-Apprenticeship scheme - an innovative programme that helps students through long-term work experience, supported by study around transferable skills at school. The scheme was the first of its kind in the South East and SWR work in partnership with Astley Cooper School in Hemel Hempstead. The PreApprenticeship gives the students the skills needed to succeed in employment. SWR currently have two Astley Cooper students trying out different areas of the business for three days a week. Jason Lee, CEO at SWR, said: “As a company, we have an eagerness to get involved with the local community. It’s a real pleasure to support a young person’s introduction to working life and this is a fantastic opportunity to find enthusiastic young people to work within our organisation. It also supports our aims to give something back to the community.” The projects had a real positive impact on the team – particularly those who are closely working with the students. It’s helped members of staff become involved in training, guiding, and mentoring, and help develop their own careers.” At school, the students’ work on topics to further prepare them for the work environment. This could include health and safety, time management, and building rapport with colleagues. Astley Cooper provides further support and regularly checks in with the student and company. Jason said: “We find these meetings invaluable, and the school’s always been really flexible. Being around the table with like-minded companies working on the same programme has been very enjoyable and beneficial.” The scheme creates new opportunities for those students who may not be enthused by taking A-Levels or daunted by applying for apprenticeships. The programme enables them to broaden their horizons and help form a careers plan – whether that’s staying with SWR or moving on to pastures new. Ben Cobain is one of SWR’s students and currently working in the marketing department. Ben is very positive about the scheme and looks forward to what the future will bring. He said: “I was given the option to do the Pre-Apprenticeship and immediately said yes. I’m really enjoying it and it’s a fun way to learn new things. Eventually, I’d like to do a full apprenticeship in Graphic Design.” “I’d definitely recommend the Pre-Apprenticeship to anyone who’s thinking of giving it a go.” The latest edition of the SWR Trade Spares Catalogue is out now. Why not visit our Trade Counter and pick up a copy? Alternatively, just add one to your next order at www.swrtradespares.com or call 01442 219611 and we’ll pop it in the post for you.
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