Brandon apprenticeship scheme looks to improve skills shortage

Brandon Tool Hire is tackling the skills shortage in trained mechanics by launching a new apprenticeship scheme this September.

Called the Brandon Academy, the scheme will take on 50 students per year, who will be trained to an Advanced Apprenticeship level, which includes NVQ levels 2 and 3.

Said to be the first of its kind to be run by a tool hire firm, the CITB-ConstructionSkills-backed courses will be held at Wiltshire College’s Lackham Campus.

Brandon’s national training and development manager Jim Maccall said the scheme will offer specific training for the tool hire industry and students will be expected to attend college for up to 14 weeks a year, over a three-year period.

“The establishment of the Brandon Academy is both an investment in the company and the industry as a whole,” Maccall said.

“This scheme will ensure that our employees have the necessary qualifications and skills to provide customers with the best service.”

The company hopes the Academy will produce its future depot managers and the goal is to achieve a 98% retention of those who enrol.

Brandon is currently running a pilot scheme, with 30 Brandon employees undergoing the first stage of the course.