Cartwright takes on 40 apprentices

An intake of 40 new young apprentices will take their first steps towards a career in manufacturing when they start an apprenticeship with South Manchester body and trailer manufacturer Cartwright as part of the company's recruitment drive to take on 70 apprentices over the next two years.

Cartwright, which this year celebrates its 60th anniversary in manufacturing and is currently enjoying record volumes and turnover in its business, has linked with Stockport College to offer these apprenticeships.

Open days at the factory as well as the College resulted in the number of apprenticeships available being over-subscribed with 40 apprentices being selected from a final assessment of 70.

Candidates went through a rigorous three day assessment which involved both practical and theory tests. A 12 week probationary period now follows from the start of their apprenticeship on August 13 initially involving a four week block release course at Stockport College followed by eight weeks at the Cartwright factory.

Cartwright has also ensured that it has been building relationships with the parents of the apprentices and was keen to have them attend the Open Days where they could meet senior managers to discuss the company and the prospects for their sons. Many of the firm's current management team have developed from apprentices.

Helen Jennings Recruitment Manager at Cartwright commented: "The recruitment campaign to bring 40 apprentices into Cartwright has been a huge success. We have been delighted by the numbers of youngsters who have been attracted by the opportunity of joining the company and particularly the quality of the candidates which has been very high indeed.

"These young people will become the managers and supervisors of Cartwright in the future and are vital to the company's future development .

"We have also been very pleased with our relationship with Stockport College which is becoming a very important partner to Cartwright.

"The workforce at Cartwright is very excited about welcoming these young people into the Cartwright family where they will be working with many of our senior employees through our 'buddy' system.

"They will be helping to create the new chapter in the Cartwright success story," she added.