The group will gain an NVQ/QCF Level 2 qualification in their respective disciplines and be poised to continue their education and training following the ACS&T development programme. This programme takes employees through a series of educational and experience steps from the shop floor to potential management roles.

Mr Johnstone said ACS&T was keen to offer opportunities to young people, who despite not being academic nevertheless had skills and talents that could be nurtured. This underlined our commitment to the local community as well as our own focus on staff development and training.

We offer a range of disciplines, from warehousing and office roles to plant and vehicle engineering, combining on-going practical training with a significantly higher than average apprentice wage and a widely recognised qualification. 

Apprentice Alex Venables, who is based at the Wolverhampton depot, said the scheme had given him the chance to learn and develop while bringing home a wage: “It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience with a respected, well-established company,” he said. “I’m really enjoying being part of the scheme and am grateful to ACS&T for giving me a head start, offering the chance to learn a trade, gain a recognised qualification and earn a decent wage all at the same time.”