Continuing Housing Technology’s support for apprenticeship schemes in the housing sector, we are delighted to report that Mears Group has just taken on 11 new apprentices from Gateshead College. The new intake brings the total number of apprentices working for Mears in Gateshead to more than 30.
Five of the new apprentices – Michael Rodgers, Connor Singh, Adam Henderson, Aaron Dalton and Thomas Humby – are helping Mears to service a multi-million pound property maintenance contract with Gateshead Council. The three-year contract, which started in April 2012, will see Mears carry out more than 50,000 repairs per year on homes managed by The Gateshead Housing Company.
The remaining six apprentices – Declan Laidler, Christian Ridge, Aidan Elstob, Jack McRobbie, Jack Howorth and John Ellison – are helping Mears to service a separate maintenance contract on behalf of Home Group.
John Norton, North East regional director, Mears Group, said, “Apprenticeships are vital for us to secure a viable future for this business. With older skilled workers retiring and the need for a multi-skilled approach, it’s really important to bring in a regular influx of talent who can take the company forward and meet our client needs.
“Due to our strong relationship with Gateshead College, which stretches back several years, we have been able to take on many local students who are already adding genuine value to our business.”
Mick Brophy, managing director of business innovation and development, Gateshead College, said, “Some employers may be wary of taking on young apprentices of 16 or 17 because they might feel it would take too much time to train them to the required standard. However, Mears is a great example of how young, raw talent can hit the ground running, add genuine value to an organisation and help to protect its future.”
