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In September, a group of five new apprentices joined the Harmsworth Printing Limited (HPL) team at Thurrock and Didcot. We caught up with Group Production Director, Julia Palmer-Poucher to find out a bit more. 

Could you tell us a bit about the current apprenticeship scheme?

At the moment we are running advanced level apprenticeships in electro-mechanical engineering and an intermediate apprenticeship in 'performing manufacturing operations'. The apprenticeships run for four years, and, as well as engineering skills, apprentices will learn about all aspects of newspaper production and support services.

Do the apprentices cover a range of skills or do they pick a specific role right from the start?

During their first two years, apprentices learn a wide range of engineering and other work related skills.  Their training takes place both at college in the form of day release and in the workplace where they will spend time working in all departments.  Apprentices will specialise during years three and four in the workplace and at college where they will study for Higher National Certificates.

A lot of effort goes into the scheme, but what are the benefits?

The scheme is a fantastic benefit to the business. It means that teams have trained support and a flow of natural successors coming through the ranks, and really demonstrates our commitment to developing talent across the business.

For the apprentices, it's a chance to learn and gain all the skills and qualifications I mentioned 'on the job' and they also enjoy the benefit of an extensive training plan with clear learning and development targets, complemented with regular feedback sessions by mentors.

How do you select apprentices for the scheme?

We work very closely with Abingdon and Witney College and Havering College to recruit suitable apprentices and the positions are also advertised on a national apprenticeship website.

Have you got any notable success stories from the past?

We have several, but I'll give the example of Brett Worley, who completed his apprenticeship and his BTech Diploma in engineering in 2003. During Brett's training, he spent six weeks in Germany involved with the manufacture and commissioning of a new printing press that was coming to HQP, Surrey Quays. This was the first time that HQP engineering staff had been involved with the manufacture and commissioning of a new press at the factory.

Brett was chosen as part of the HQP, Thurrock team following the closure of HQP, Surrey Quays and is currently undertaking further training on an NVQ level 3 Electrical Maintenance course which he'll complete by Christmas.​​

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