TH March has been recognised for its commitment to apprenticeships. The firm has received the Silver accreditation for the We Invest in Apprentices framework, part of Investors in People.
We Invest in Apprentices recognises companies which work hard to train and support those looking to gain qualifications while earning a wage. TH March is one of just 19 companies to achieve the new Government-backed accreditation.
TH March has run its Apprenticeship Scheme for 15 years and, since then, has hosted 31 apprentices, with 18 still working for the company. In the last 12 months alone, TH March has taken on seven apprentices.
“We have a long history of investing in, supporting and developing bright and talented apprentices,” said Jo Morgan, Associate Director of HR. “To be given this important accreditation is a great way to recognise and expand the work we do to develop skills and help build fantastic careers.
“I am really passionate about our Apprenticeship Scheme. It is so rewarding to see the benefits both for the business and apprentices.”
Firms must meet a long list of criteria to achieve the We Invest in Apprentices accreditation. Assessors look for a commitment to hiring, how education and learning is developed and communication. They also consider how well apprentices are supported and many other factors.
During the assessment process, TH March’s apprentices were interviewed to find out how they were progressing and asked to share their experience of the Apprenticeship Scheme. Line managers were also interviewed before a final report was put together, outlining the level awarded.
Jo Morgan said TH March’s Silver status will enhance the company’s already well-respected Apprenticeship Scheme.
“We’re so proud,” she said. “Having this accreditation in place means we can go on to attract even more talented people to our company.”
Under the scheme, companies are given an action plan to help them develop and get the most out of their apprenticeship programmes.
The Silver accreditation raises the firm’s profile and makes it stand out to people looking to learn the skills of the trade while working.
Sonya Mehmi from our Birmingham office recently completed her apprenticeship at TH March and said it was an ‘incredible opportunity’.
“I would advise people who are considering the apprentice route to just simply…go for it!” she said. “It can be scary getting out of your comfort zone but by doing so, you will see the benefits as you go along and will be more confident in different things.”
Paul Devoy, CEO of Investors in People, said: “We’d like to congratulate TH March. Being accredited with We invest in apprentices is a remarkable effort for any organisation, and places TH March in fine company with a host of organisations that understand the value of delivering high quality apprenticeships.”