Subcontractor continues commitment to apprenticeships

First year apprentices, Joshua Kindley, 18, (image, left), from Newcastle, James Laing, 17, (image, centre), from North Shields and Jasmine Ferguson, 18, (image, right), also from North Shields, have joined NPE's other apprentices, which currently number ten. All three apprentices are studying part time at Tyne Metropolitan College for their Level 3 National Diploma in Mechanical Manufacturing Engineering, while gaining practical experience with NPE. Both Joshua and James are working towards an NVQ in Performing Engineering Operations, whilst Jasmine is aiming for an NVQ in Engineering Technical Support. In keeping with the deep-rooted tradition of engineering in Tyneside, the subcontractor invests heavily in the training of apprentices each year, valuing the importance of hands-on-training and the contribution they make to its ongoing success. Speaking about its commitment to apprentices, finance director and chief executive officer, Eileen Kelly, said: "Training is a significant investment for NPE, receiving a minimum Government subsidy per week per apprentice. I am extremely proud of the work we carry out with our apprentices, many of whom stay with the company long after they qualify and enjoy steady career progression. Previous years have shown there to be a skills shortage in the engineering industry and by running its successful apprenticeship programme NPE, therefore, looks to play its part in redressing the balance, while investing in the future of the business."