30th Nov 2023
We continue to invest in local people, as part of our commitment to training and employment of school leavers within the local area.
Since 1991, Atkinsons has employed more than 100 apprentices with most going on to achieve significant growth within the company, and more than half are still currently employed.
Tony Ripley was the first apprentice taken on by the company in 1991, and 32 years later, now our Commercial Manager, Tony is still a significant part of the team, having helped a number of apprentices kickstart their career with us.
This year, we celebrated a significant milestone, 41 years in business, which highlighted not only the company’s growth, but the growth of the dedicated team of employees which have helped the business grow and develop into what it is today.
Atkinsons Director, Steven Atkinson, believes it is important to invest in the local community, helping to boost employment in the local area and provide people living in Penrith the opportunity to develop their careers here.
Speaking to current apprentice Tim Halford, who is undertaking a degree in Quantity Surveying, he said “I have just completed the first year of the course and it has definitely guided me onto the right path to securing a future within the construction industry. Before taking on the qualification, I was aware that I lacked some knowledge and experience, particularly regarding legal elements and technologies behind the industry. However, I now not only have the knowledge I need, but I’ve also gained experience in the process too.”
Tim also expressed his gratitude towards Atkinson’s saying, “I am very appreciative of Atkinsons for supporting me throughout this qualification and making time to help me progress my career here. The support from my employers has been great and I feel a valued member of the team. Having people around me who have worked within the construction industry for many years has certainly helped boost my existing knowledge and overall confidence.”
The latest cohort of apprentices are ready to enhance or start their qualifications between September 2023 and January 2024, and having worked for the company for 4 years now, employee Connah Rutherford is taking on a new challenge and embarking on a Level 4 Construction Quantity Surveying Technician course with the backing of Atkinsons. “It’s great to have the support of my employer as I get ready to start my training. The knowledge from my peers and experience working on our current housing developments has enabled me to get a head start on the training, by building on my university degree with these additional skills, it will really help me throughout my development, and I am looking forward to expanding on this further”.
We offer a wide range of Apprenticeships, and are committed to investing in employees, providing them with the opportunity to excel to their full potential, whether that be apprenticeships or additional training.
