Ongo is taking on four new apprentices as part of its commitment to invest in local employment and education, taking the total number of current roles to 20.
Since 2019, Ongo has supported over 70 people into apprenticeships within other organisation or other businesses in the region.
Of those who completed their qualification, 92% have gained full-time employment.
All four vacancies advertised will be within their maintenance team.
This includes two plumbers, one plasterer, and a works planner.
Alongside full on-the-job training and being paid above the average rate, each will complete a recognised qualification.
Of the 20 current apprentices within Ongo, roles range from business admin, digital marketing, recruitment, lettings, tenancy services, finance, security and compliance, health and safety, customer service, plumbing, and roofing.
Dan Vockins, apprenticeship support coach at Ongo, said: “We’re delighted to be offering even more opportunities for people to earn while they learn. It’s something that has been very successful over the years.
“Not only do the majority that come to work for us go on to have a great career, we have many in management roles that started as apprentices, people completing degrees and higher education, who are all advocates of the scheme.
“We’re very excited to welcome new talent into the organisation and hope to offer many more opportunities in the future.”
Max Bushell, manager at Ongo’s heating and plumbing business, Hales and Coultas, is passionate about offering apprenticeships to the next generation.
He said: “An apprenticeship in a trade opens so many doors in terms of development and opportunities.
“It has helped me because you learn so many skills and meet so many skilled contacts. Even if you start by doing more basic jobs, you need to learn these primary skills to get into all of the exciting job roles that are out there.”
Katie Walmsley started as an apprentice and has been with Ongo for 10 years.
She said: “My apprenticeship benefited me greatly as I was always fairly shy.
“This role pushed me to be more confident, to believe in myself and to challenge myself.
“Advice I would give to someone considering an apprenticeship is to just go for it.
“Personally for me, the aspect of learning whilst earning is another bonus. Who would want to miss out on an opportunity like that?”
Image: Dan and Max, Ongo apprentices support staff; and ex-apprentice Katie
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