2 Minutes
8th July 2022
Portmeirion Group PLC is consists of six global brands and the designs that underpin them. Collectively these brands have over 750 years of history.
From their ceramic manufacturing base in Stoke-on-Trent, they undertook a recruitment drive for new apprentices using apprenticeship levy funding to support their business goals.
Portmeirion started to recruit new apprentices onto the Level 2 Lean Manufacturing Apprenticeship standard, through Stoke-on-Trent based training provider, Achieve Training in 2021. The lean manufacturing apprenticeship provides apprentices with skills, knowledge and behaviors that can be applied in the real world of manufacturing, with apprentices learning about quality standards demanded in a fast paced and efficient processing environment.
In the heart of the potteries in Stoke-on-Trent, learners have been able to put knowledge into practice such as quality control, problem solving, continuous improvement, workplace organisation and lean manufacturing operations. Supported by managers and mentors within the business, apprentices have been able to develop their careers.
Julie Twigg, Learning & Development Manager says apprenticeships have brought many benefits to the Portmeirion Group: “The apprenticeship training has brought another dimension to our existing workforce. I feel the impact of apprenticeships on the business has been getting the apprentices involved to see the bigger picture of the industry through problem solving, health and safety, and continuous improvement.”
Working with an independent training provider, Julie says: Working with Achieve Training has been professional and knowledgeable. Their tutors have been both supportive and helpful to our apprentices which is great to see.”
Julie continues: “Achieve Training has been instrumental in helping support people wishing to embark upon a rewarding career within the ceramics industry. We have a strong working partnership with Achieve Training and have been successful in recruiting apprentices who are currently working towards their Level 2 Lean Manufacturing qualification. The apprentices are striving to gain a nationally recognised qualification to be able to support their development within the business.”
Stephen Rushton, Director of Partnerships at Achieve Training adds: “Working with Portmeirion, a prestigious company within Stoke-on-Trent, on their apprenticeship recruitment has been extremely rewarding. We have seen the company develop and have supported them to shape their training plan to nurture future talent.”
Businesses like Portmeirion, who pay the apprenticeship levy, can use their levy to fund training and development for young people who want to work in their industry and for existing staff to develop new skills and progress in their career.
Julie adds: “All the staff that we have worked with at Achieve Training are passionate about supporting individuals in their learning journey. We would recommend Achieve Training.”
On April 1st 2021, PM Training became Achieve Training – find out more here
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