BROADHEATH-based body and trailer manufacturer Cartwright has launched its latest recruitment drive for up to 25 new apprentices to support the company’s continued expansion.

The apprenticeships are targeted at 16 – 19-year-olds who are being invited to apply and join the existing team of apprentices already on site.

Cartwright’s award winning apprenticeship programme is designed to encourage school and college leavers to develop a range of skills, and work in a team to pave the way for a career in engineering.

The fact that Cartwright designs and builds products from scratch is a major advantage and provides apprentices with the opportunity to learn the end to end manufacturing process within one company.

During the programme the apprentices will develop a comprehensive set of skills in welding, hydraulic, electrical and air fitting and testing, general fitting and assembly, machine operation, finishing and pre-delivery inspection.

Commencing with a one week block induction at the Stockport Engineering Training Association (SETA), the apprentices are quickly able to get into the workplace environment. This covers health and safety and functional skills, followed by working four days a week at Cartwright and one day a week attending SETA on day release until they pass all training and assessment standards.

Within the first year the apprentices undergo six rotations in individual departments every eight weeks so they can not only experience each stage of the manufacturing process but quickly gain the necessary skills enabling them to make a contribution to the business.

At the end of the rotation period, the apprentices have the opportunity to select an area in which to specialise according to skill and interest.

They also have the added advantage of being mentored on the shop-floor under a 'buddy' system where they will work with a skilled tradesman, learning from his experience while developing engineering and manufacturing skills.

The four year apprenticeship programme scheme leads to an NVQ Level 2 in engineering. There is also an opportunity for the apprentices to study for additional qualifications.

To find out more about Cartwright and its apprenticeship scheme log on to www.cartwright-group.co.uk/apprenticeships