Russell Group is investing in Scotland’s youth, with 23 apprentices currently on its books.
More than 100 employees have completed apprenticeship schemes at Russell Group over recent years, with the firm continuing to increase its investment in today’s young talent.
The Group’s apprentices are currently undertaking a variety of Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs), from business and administration, driving and warehousing, to engineering, which can take between 6 months to 4 years to complete.
Many of Russell’s apprentices are offered permanent roles on completion, including Samantha McCudden, an administration apprentice, who started with the Group last October. She said: “The apprenticeship is a great concept as I get to work at the same time as getting a qualification.”
John Pollock is completing his fabrication and welding apprenticeship in the Group’s workshop and has been with the company for a year and a half. He said: “Working here is really good, I get to watch and learn from skilled tradesmen, as well as helping them out. I then get time to work on my own jobs, putting into practice what I have learned from others. I really enjoy it and plan to stay here once I have finished my apprenticeship.”
Tom Lawson, The Group’s HR manager, said: “I have been with the Group for 17 years and have seen many trainees grow in confidence as they work their way through the various stages of their qualification.”
“There is great value in providing qualifications that contain measurable competences. They represent not only continuous development of the individual, but are also relevant to their chosen field.”
“The apprenticeship schemes provide our trainees with recognised qualifications and demonstrate Russell Group’s willingness to invest in personal development.”