Make UK and Next Gen Makers launch innovative engineering apprenticeships Employers Kitemark
Make UK has partnered with support platform Next Gen Makers to develop a ground-breaking Engineering Apprenticeships Employer Kitemark, which will recognise companies who achieve a best practice benchmark, and thus endorse them as an exemplary employer of apprentices.
Launched on National Manufacturing Day (October 1st), the kitemark will be available to companies that are part of the recently launched Engineering Apprenticeships: Best Practice Programme – a Make UK backed initiative designed to support manufacturers to overcome skills challenges and build talent for future success.
It is open to any UK engineering or manufacturing company that is running an engineering apprenticeship programme.
The feedback of current Apprentices and Training Providers is a key part of the criteria in awarding the kitemark to employers, in addition to the company being benchmarked against industry best practice on an annual basis during their journey within the programme.
The Engineering Apprenticeships: Best Practice Programme equips manufacturers with the tools they need to better plan for, attract and retain apprentices. It provides a host of best practice resources and peer to peer discussion forums to enable engineering and manufacturing firms of all sizes to replicate proven methods adopted by others that have successfully run apprenticeship schemes for some time.
Stephen Phipson, Make UK CEO, commented: “It’s vital that would-be apprentices feel comfortable and confident when selecting an engineering employer, who will give them the right support and training throughout their apprenticeship and beyond.
“This kitemark complements and builds on the programmes that Make UK and Next Gen Makers have already developed which are key to helping place apprentices and enable employers to bridge the skills gap which is currently affecting the sector.”
Adam Tipper, Managing Director of Next Gen Makers, adds: “Across the UK, we have excellent examples of engineering firms that are running winning apprenticeship schemes and that are unaffected by the skills shortage as a result. We also have a large proportion of industry that would like to improve their ability to do so.
“There is so much potential in sharing best practice amongst manufacturers to realise this and for the benefit of all. The missing link is to then acknowledge those that achieve and maintain excellence – something which the Kitemark will do. Those awarded can proudly display the Kitemark as a reflection of their excellence in this area, as an employer of choice for young aspiring engineers”.
Make UK and Next Gen Makers are hosting a special webinar on October 19th at 12pm for employers who are interested in finding out more about the kitemark, and how their organisation can get involved. To attend, register here.
More in EDI
100th business pledges to support inclusivity and reduce inequality across Oxfordshire
The Oxfordshire Inclusive Economy Partnership (OIEP), dedicated to fostering a fairer and more inclusive economy in Oxfordshire, has welcomed its 100th Charter member, Oxford University Development (OUD), the joint venture between the University of Oxford and Legal & General, which has committed to actively promote inclusivity for a positive impact.
Unipart is pleased to sign the Oxfordshire Inclusive Economy Charter.
Unipart is pleased to sign the Oxfordshire Inclusive Economy Charter. Inclusivity has been at the heart of our values since our company began in 1987, and it continues to be a vital part of our strategy, which we’ve described as “Go Digital, Go Green, Go Faster.” Those three strategic drivers illustrate that adopting truly inclusive […]
Defining the journey towards diversity
Achieving a high standard of diversity in the workplace has become increasingly important – especially given the spotlight that has been shone on this aspect of business life by the recent global pandemic and the growing awareness of racial inequality around the world. For larger businesses there are also greater reporting requirements in this area from regulators and government.
From this author
The Core Values Driving Nicholsons: Creativity, Passion, and Dedication
At the heart of Nicholsons lies a team of over 200 individuals, bound together by shared values that shape every aspect of their work. These values—creativity, passion for the planet, and dedication—are not just words but guiding principles that drive innovation, sustainability, and customer-focused solutions.
Liz Nicholson & Nicholsons: A Leading Force in Environmental Services
At Nicholsons, sustainability and innovation come together to create a seamless approach to forestry, landscaping, and ecological consultancy. In this insightful interview, Liz Nicholson, Managing Director of Nicholsons, introduces the company’s mission, expertise, and the value they bring to clients.
Liz Nicholson, Managing Director of Nicholsons
At B4, we recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Liz Nicholson, Managing Director of Nicholsons, to discuss the company’s journey, values, and impact on the environment. Nicholsons is a leading environmental services company, specialising in forestry, landscaping, and ecological consultancy. In this exclusive interview, Liz shares insights into their innovative approach, major projects, and the value of being a B4 Member.