Manufacturing Firm Sees Apprentices as Key to Future of Industry

8th February 2012

  The Tinsley Bridge Group takes pride in the success of its apprenticeship scheme.

At a time when national youth unemployment has topped the one million mark, the Group continues to take on, educate and support young people from across the region and provide them with an introduction to manufacturing techniques so they can develop skills in the areas that suit them best. The apprentices are also sponsored on day release courses to achieve relevant NVQs.   Mark Webber, Managing Director at the Group, commented: Engineering and manufacturing is at the heart of Sheffield's history, representing our heritage and our legacy. Therefore in order to ensure we have the right skills to continue to grow and develop our industry, it is vital, especially in the current environment, that companies invest in the talent and potential that we have in the region.   Matthew Jewitt, 20, a fourth-year Advanced Apprentice, said: I was put in touch with Tinsley via a link at Sheffield College, where I was studying for my NVQ Level 2. The Tyzack arm of the Group took me on as a Modern Apprentice and continued to support me in my studies. I am now studying for my BTEC National and have moved up to the next level of apprenticeship.   Second-Year Traditional Apprentice Gilby Atkin, 18, added: One of my aims when starting at Tyzack was to become a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) operator; having gained experience across the factory, I now work on a brand new CNC machine, and I'm really enjoying it.   Modern Apprentice Sam Bishop, 19, in his fourth year at the company, said: When I first started I was really welcomed into the team at Tyzack, and I felt that I was seen as being able to contribute rather than simply assisting on small tasks. Working alongside the other apprentices is great, as we can help support each other through the process. We're not just stuck out on our own though the people here know their stuff and help you and watch over you to make sure we are doing it right and are safe, without you feeling they are constantly over your shoulder.   Second-year Traditional Apprentice Brad Fontana, 17, already has an idea of the area he wants to specialise in. He commented: I had to pass several exams to get to the position I am now, and at roughly the halfway mark of my apprenticeship. I operate the CNC machines alongside Gilby, and I'd really like to continue developing on the academic side by learning more about CNC programming something which Tyzack has shown it is keen to support.   The company recognises the value of a good working environment. The apprentices work alongside each other and an experienced team to ensure they develop a shared working knowledge under expert guidance.