EDA Apprenticeship Plus, the organisation behind the apprenticeship service for members and affiliates of the electrical distributors’ association (EDA), has announced its 2,000th apprentice, 19-year-old Jonathan McArdle.
In an initiative led by the EDA – created by wholesalers for wholesalers – Jonathan’s apprenticeship adheres to the trade supplier level two standard; combining on-the-job training at Edmundson Electricals’ Middlesbrough branch.
Detailing why he believes the service offered by the EDA Apprenticeship Plus is so impressive, Dan Harper, Profit Centre Manager of Edmundson Electrical, explains, “The quality of candidates who came to interview meant that I decided to take on two apprentices – Chloe Warpole, aged 21, joined us too and both are fantastic additions to the team.”
“Apprenticeships are a terrific way to nurture new talent in the sector and I’ve used the service offered through our trade association, the EDA, for a number of years. What Jonathan and Chloe are currently missing in product knowledge is made up through their effort and attitude to work. They are always polite, well-presented, and the customers – as well as the rest of the team – have really taken to them,” Dan continues.
“As part of their studies, Jonathan and Chloe are also currently studying one of the modules in the EDA product knowledge program, giving them more confidence when serving customers. I see great futures ahead for them both with the company if they continue to apply themselves in the manner that they are currently showing us,” he adds.
Account Manager for EDA Apprenticeships Plus, Louise Sugars, says “We are delighted to have recruited and placed the 2,000th apprentice with Edmundson Electrical Ltd. They are a long-term partner and supporter of the service, and we have been working together since 2011. The career opportunities they offer apprentices who are keen to learn and progress are fantastic.”
John Henry, Managing Director at EDA Apprenticeships Plus confirms, “The fact that this is the 2000th apprentice in such a short space of time is justification that the levy can work when used correctly.
“We have demystified the access to apprenticeships at all levels on behalf of members of the EDA,” he said. “This is merely a matter of addressing and understanding the emphasis on the employer taking control without fear of the entirely manageable means to accessing the considerable benefits under the reformed apprenticeship agenda. We are engaging apprentices in all areas of the businesses we work with, not only in core areas, but also accountancy, IT, marketing and management courses. This is another example of how to use the levy to the best effect and make the most of your company’s greatest investment – in its people,” he continues.
