6 days Ago
Extra apprenticeships are on offer at Bolton college to help meet an all-time high demand for construction skills. The Deane Road based college will be offering the joinery apprenticeships on a first come, first served basis from this April. There will also be grants available to help employers invest in apprenticeships.
Bolton College employment engagement officer Adam Lea said: “If you’re struggling to find skilled workers, investing in a joinery apprentice is a game-changer. “Apprenticeships allow you to train people your way, ensuring they gain the skills that are right for your business, all while keeping costs low.” Bolton College is based on Deane Road (Image: Bolton College) The programme allows employers to invest in either new recruits or existing staff without waiting for the usual September intake.
with applications for the April 2025 cohort closing on April 22. The college says that apprentices under 21 may be eligible for fully funding training . Employers who take on apprentices under 19, or those aged 19 to 24 with an education, health and care plan or who have been in care, can also access a £1,000 government incentive.
Extra support is available through The Construction Industry Training Board, with grants of up to £2,500 per year during the apprenticeship and £3,500 on completion. Bolton College staff say that all paid are directly to the employer to help cover training and supervision costs. One apprentice working with AGB Build is Dylan Firth.
He said: “Doing a joinery apprenticeship has been the best decision for me; I’m earning a salary while I learn, picking up real skills on site, and working towards a proper qualification. “It’s setting me up for a solid career.” Staff at the college say employers are already seeing longer-term gains, with improved retention and loyalty among staff who train through apprenticeship routes.
ALSO READ: New principal takes over at college 'central to the life and identity of Bolton' ALSO READ: College's multi-million pound extension just months away from being opened ALSO READ: Students, parents and more to help shape college over the next five years AGB Build directors Andy Berry and Jon Walton said: “Taking on an apprentice has been a real asset to our business. "It means we can shape their skills from day one to match how we work , and we’ve seen real commitment in return. “With the funding support available, it’s a smart move that brings long-term value.
” Anyone looking for more information or who wants to arrange a visit can contact Adam Lea by calling 07736 945 853 or email [email protected].
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