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Scottish Apprenticeship Week, which runs from 19 to 23 May, has been organised by Skills Development Scotland and provides an opportunity to highlight the value apprenticeships to the industry.
In a statement, Balfour Beatty's UK construction business has said it will recruit 80 apprentices throughout 2014, and will include electrical, mechanical and construction apprentices.
Speaking at the 'Developing Talent: Growing Business' Skills Summit in Aberdeen, Balfour Beatty's Emerging Talent Development Manager, Tony Ellender, explained to delegates why Balfour Beatty decided to join 'The 5% Club'.
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Currently, Balfour Beatty's construction business employs more than 200 apprentices across the UK, with approximately 30% based in Scotland. The company is committed to offering new and increased opportunities for entrants to the industry who follow structured training schemes. This commitment is reaffirmed by being a member of 'The 5% Club', which is an industry-led initiative focused on ensuring that – within five years – at least 5% of its workforce will be graduates or engaged in a formalised apprenticeship or sponsored education.
Murray Easton, Balfour Beatty Regional Managing Director for Scotland, said: "Scottish Apprenticeship Week provides a platform to celebrate the positive impact that apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses and the economy.
"The future of our industry depends on finding and investing in the next generation of engineers, project managers and skilled trades. We are committed to ensuring that five percent of our workforce is made up of apprentices, graduates or sponsored students within five years so that we can maintain the highest quality workforce right here in Scotland.
"Our commitment with 'The 5% Club' will give us greater visibility of emerging talent."
(JP/CD)
