Social landlord Adra has launched its new Academi to coincide with Apprenticeship Week in Wales with the aim of supporting more than 60 young people to develop new skills and access work opportunities across North Wales by 2022.
Academi Adra is focusing on enhancing skills and employability options through apprenticeships, work placements, graduate placements and trainee schemes.
The housing provider is starting its first two placements this month as part of the national Kickstart Scheme, creating work opportunities for 16 to 24 year-olds on Universal Credit who are at risk of long-term unemployment.
They also recently took on four new apprentices, one electrical, one plumber and two painter and decorators within its Repairs and Maintenance team, adding to the several other apprentices currently working on its asset management programme and new build construction sites.
Caleb Khan is studying for a City & Guilds Level 2, NVQ Diploma in Decorative Finishing and Industrial Painting Occupations (Construction) at Coleg Llandrillo Menai and as part of his course he is gaining practical, on-the-job training as an apprentice with Adra.
Caleb, of Caernarfon, said: “Adra has given me a fantastic opportunity to develop my skills as an apprentice, working with an experienced painter and decorator at Adra’s homes.
“I’m extremely grateful for this chance and would like to thank Adra for their support.”
One local SME working with Adra on its investment programme is construction company Williams Homes Bala, which also recently announced the launch of their Apprentice Academy providing up to 10 new apprentice opportunities in the region.
Owain Williams, Joint Managing Director of Williams Homes Bala, said: “We are pleased to be working in partnership with Adra with the aim of providing more opportunities for local people.”
■ Three former construction trainees, who have risen swiftly through the ranks at Anwyl Homes, are encouraging others to follow in their footsteps during National Apprenticeship Week (February 8 – 12).
Despite their relatively young ages, Jay Williams and Shane Crawford, both from Wrexham, and Jacob Hird, from Mold, have all recently been promoted to assistant site manager roles.
Jacob said: “I’d definitely recommend an apprenticeship. You have the benefit of working on site and earning a decent wage while also going to college.”
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