Bridgwater College’s pioneering Engineering Traineeship with blue-chip power generation company Alstom saw its first cohort of 22 local youngsters graduate at The McMillan Theatre, Bridgwater, last month.

The Traineeship, believed to be the first of its kind in the South West, represented a wonderful opportunity for the candidates, many of whom had not considered a career in engineering before. Delivered by the College but funded by the National Skills Academy for Nuclear and Nuclear Manufacturing (NSAN), it enabled the group of young people from Somerset to experience at first hand the specialist skills required for a career in engineering construction, and acquire an insight into possible career progression. Of the 22, nine have now moved on to become full-time members of Alstom’s prestigious Apprenticeship scheme, and all remaining 13 candidates have progressed to Apprenticeships elsewhere or to full-time education.

The support of Alstom in committing to and investing in this programme was absolutely crucial to its success. Speaking at the Graduation Ceremony, company Vice President for North Europe, Steve Jones, said,

“This unique Traineeship is testament to the excellent working relationship we have with Bridgwater College. Together we are offering young people from Somerset an opportunity to acquire the skills and behaviours they need to progress to full-time apprenticeship programmes, and in doing so are securing Alstom’s engineers of the future. All of the candidates have benefitted enormously from the programme and now find themselves in a far better position to take advantage of the many career and supply chain opportunities arising in the region.”

Bridgwater College Vice Principal, Andy Berry also addressed the trainees, saying,

“You have all been given a once in a lifetime opportunity, and have worked extremely hard to make the most of it. You now stand on the threshold of an exciting and fulfilling career, proving without doubt that when an employer and a training provider commit resources and work in close partnership, they can generate real career opportunities for young people and help to create the UK workforce of tomorrow.”

If you would like more information about Apprenticeships at Bridgwater College, or are an employer looking for workforce training please contact our Business Development team on 01278 655111 or email business@bridgwater.ac.uk.