Port of Tyne aiming for record number of apprentices (From The Advertiser Series)

Port of Tyne aiming for record number of apprentices

3:10pm Wednesday 13th March 2013 in Business By Andy Richardson

THE Port of Tyne plans to more than treble its apprenticeships in 2013, creating new opportunities for young people throughout the business.

As well as traditional engineering apprenticeships, the port will recruit 13 extra young people in roles in IT, security, warehousing, business administration, marketing, civil engineering, accountancy, and cargo operations.

This follows the success of the long established programme for engineering apprentices which the Port has operated for many years. 

Andrew Moffat, Port of Tyne’s chief executive, said: “As a major employer we’re committed to helping more young people in the area get a foot on the ladder to work.  We have always had apprentices working in our engineering department and for the first time last year we had a business administration apprentice.  We also support many community programmes that help develop confidence and skills in young people.

“Apprenticeships seem the best way to do this and we are very pleased that we will be able to take on 13 further apprentices this year who will be working towards recognised qualifications and learning about the world of work and the opportunities there may be for them in the future whether with the Port or elsewhere.”

South Shields MP David Miliband said: “I have seen the difference that can be made by a high quality work experience placement that can boost a young person’s CV.  The Port is setting a great example by bringing in apprentices across the business and it will reap benefits not only for the Port but the local economy as it is an investment in the whole community’s future workforce.”

The Port has appointed South Tyneside College as its training provider.  Lindsey Whiterod, Principal, said: “This is a fantastic step by the Port of Tyne and we are delighted to be working with them in delivering the apprenticeship programme.

“This kind of commitment is exactly what is needed for young people, their future employment and the local economy.  The College has recently undergone a major transformation, creating a very exciting time to be connecting with businesses in the region like the Port of Tyne, and we are thrilled to be providing the Port’s apprenticeships.”

All apprentice positions will be based on a fixed term contract with the Port, and while it doesn’t automatically mean that there is a permanent job at the end of each programme, apprentices will be able to apply for any suitable vacancies that arise and even if unsuccessful, will leave the business with a valuable set of skills, experience and a recognised qualification.

Apprentice recruitment will be taking place in partnership with the National Apprenticeship Service and South Tyneside College.