Member Article

North Tyneside employer sees “Work Placements” as key to recruitment success

Hogg Engineering, one of the North East’s most successful companies has invested in two “Traineeship recruits” which is being managed by their partner Training Provider; Tyne North Training. Hogg Engineering which operates two divisions in North Tyneside; engineering and packaging works within the many growth sectors of the North East which includes offshore, pharmaceutical, chemical, defence and food. “Traineeships” is a new programme for young people who want to work, but who need extra help to gain either an apprenticeship or a job. Here the employer can offer a work trial for up to 8 weeks with a guaranteed interview at the end.

The two Trainees; Anthony Miller (North Shields) and Ben Chandler (Walker) both applied to Tyne North Training for work. They immediately attended the pre-employment course which provides young people with the basic skills not only to find a job but also to understand the basic principles of manufacturing. Upon completion of the 2 week course Anthony and Ben were given the opportunity of the work trial at Hogg Engineering which is providing them with work experience. It is during this time that the Trainees can learn about the company and its products; similarly Hogg can make an informed decision on how good the youngsters are. In addition to the work experience, Tyne North Training will work with the Trainees to secure a recognised manufacturing qualification and certificates in english and maths.

Ian Selkirk (MD of Hogg Engineering) commented “When Tyne North Training approached me with this unique method of recruiting staff I straight away realised the benefits of recruiting young people on a work trail basis. We get to see them working and they get to decide whether we are right for them. We are 5 weeks into the Traineeship and we are confident that Anthony and Ben can be a real asset to any company.”

Katie Illingworth, Recruitment Co-ordinator at Tyne North Training explains “Traineeships are a great idea. Traineeships give young people the opportunity to develop the skills and workplace experience that employers require. Youngsters can come to us and they will benefit from the work experience and extra life skills before taking on a full time job. It is just about giving them a chance and the confidence to secure that precious job.”

Hogg Engineering can add “Traineeships” to their mix of recruitment activities (which includes engineering apprenticeships) now looks forward to utilising this method of recruitment for the long term. Tyne North Training is planning to run another Traineeship Pre-employment course in November. For young people who wish to secure a job through this route or employers who want to test this for themselves should contact Katie Illingworth on 0191 262 6860 to secure a place.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Andrew Thorpe .