Reading brickwork and Oxfordshire builder named in top five SME apprenticeship employers
Large and small employers across the public and private sector have been recognised for their vital contribution to apprenticeships.
And for the first time this year a new category was launched: Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers 2022 – which for the first time recognises the critical role these organisations play in creating opportunities, particularly for younger people and those in disadvantaged areas.
Coming in at No 3 was Reading-based Lee Marley Brickwork.
Formed in 1997, the company has grown organically to become one of the UK’s leading integrated façade subcontractors specialising in brickwork, scaffolding, stonework and system façades.
The company has committed to develop the next generation of bricklayers, scaffolders, stone masons and steel fixers.
Modern methods of construction are continually evolving, so to ensure that the workforce of the future is equipped with the skills to adapt to this Lee Marley has formed partnerships with Brooklands College, for brickwork, and the CITB, for scaffolding. This allows it to incorporate our own syllabus into the apprentices curriculum meaning that they are fully prepared to meet the changing needs of the construction industry.
At No 5 in the SME listing is Long Hanborough-based electrical engineering company Darke & Taylor.
Through continual investment in training, it aims to enhance the quality of its workforce and protect the future of the industry.
The leader boards are designed to showcase the very best of England’s apprenticeship employers, with those listed recognised for providing some of the most successful apprenticeship programmes over the previous 12 months.
Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi said: "It is a fantastic achievement to be listed as one of the country’s most outstanding apprenticeship employers. Apprenticeships offer people of all ages and backgrounds the chance to gain the experience and skills needed to hit the ground running in their chosen career, while delivering the skilled workforce businesses need to grow and thrive.
"I would like to congratulate all employers large and small for their brilliant work. I look forward to hearing more about their successful apprenticeship programmes."
