Every year, Rolls-Royce holds an apprenticeship scheme aimed at finding the best people to join the legendary brand’s facilities. This year, the British manufacturer announced that a record number of apprentices have joined in, 26 in total to be more precise. This is the highest intake since the program was launched back in 2006 and is a good sign, as production in Goodwood has been ramped up to satisfy the growing demand.
The new recruits will train with the company for between two and four years, working alongside experienced craftspeople in Assembly, Woodshop, Surface Finish, Leathershop, Parts Quality and Total Vehicle Quality Management to learn the unique skills and techniques employed by the world’s leading luxury manufacturer. They will also study for nationally-recognized vocational qualifications at Chichester College and other local further education establishments. For the first time, the program now includes Sir Ralph Robins Degree Apprenticeships, in which candidates will study for a BEng in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Chichester to complement their on-the-job practical training.
Johann Wolf, Director of Manufacturing, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars said, “Since its launch 13 years ago, our Apprenticeship Program has provided a unique opportunity for successful candidates to develop skills and careers with an iconic global brand. We remain absolutely committed to continuing our provision to maximize its reach and impact. We believe this combination of hands-on training, practical experience and vocational education is vitally important not only to our own future, but to that of UK manufacturing as a whole.
“That we were able to offer a record number of apprenticeship places this year is a testament to the sheer quality of the applications we’re now receiving. We’re very much looking forward to working with our new apprentices over the coming years, and helping them realize the enormous potential they’ve already demonstrated,” Wolf added. Since Rolls-Royce posted record sales figures last year and, with the launch of the Cullinan, are expecting to break those records this year, more hands on deck could prove vital.
