Local MP Mark Pawsey has joined with representatives from Intec Business Colleges this week to visit local Apprenticeship employers H & K International Ltd on the Swift Valley Industrial Estate.  During National Apprenticeship Week, Mark was keen to see for himself the advantages of employing and supporting apprentices in the workplace.
 
Mark said:
“I was delighted to be able to visit H & K International Ltd this week and to celebrate the skills and talents of apprentices in my Constituency.  Recent figures show that 870 apprentices started a programme in the Rugby Constituency during 2010/11.  These figures represent a 52% increase from a total of 570 apprentices prior to the 2010 General Election and, most significantly, a rise from just 360 apprentices in 2005.  This Government has delivered the biggest boost ever to apprenticeships, with a major increase in those under the age of 19 participating.”
 
Mark continued:
“It was useful to attend with a local training provider who I know has highlighted their commitment to apprenticeships by working in partnership with companies to develop their employee’s skills.  I hope that National Apprenticeship Week has helped to highlight the advantages of employing and supporting employers in the workplace, and the wide range of apprenticeships available.”
 
Mark concluded:
“Boosting employer interest should lead to more apprenticeships being created, supporting British Business and providing our citizens with strong vocational skills and excellent career progression.”
 
Intec Business Colleges were happy to introduce Mark to H & K employees who are candidates on their programme, and to discuss with him the benefits of apprenticeships and NVQs to both individuals and businesses. 
 
John Herman, Intec Managing Director went on to say “Mark’s visit illustrates his keen interest in staff training and particularly the Apprenticeship programme.  I know from his background of running a business himself how much he supports initiatives that help businesses to improve their competitiveness.  I am sure H & K International Ltd and the Apprentices are pleased that their commitment to the Apprenticeship programme is recognised”
 
Sue Wheatley (Customer Services Manager at H & K International Ltd) who accommodated the visit, said “Over the years we have offered NVQ’S to various area of the business, including Customer Service, Production and Warehousing.  We have weekly in house training sessions on products and procedures, so this, along with the NVQ’s ensures that our staff are knowledgeable and consistent in their approach.  We understand that we are only as good as our staff and believe that we should invest in them.”

Left to right: John Herman, Managing Director of Intec Business Services and Sue Wheatley, Customer Services Manager at H & K International Ltd with Mark Pawsey MP