A major Oxford employer is celebrating the 30th anniversary of its apprenticeship scheme. Amey, which provides a range of support services to road and rail networks across the UK, has seen nine apprentices graduate from the Logistics Apprenticeship Sceheme based at Sutton Courtenay in the last ten years.

The recruits are taken from Oxfordshire schools and colleges and undertake a three-year scheme, after which they are also given the opportunity to apply for a higher diploma to further improve their qualifications.

Steve Helliwell, managing director of the logistics business division, said: “The apprenticeship programme provides the opportunity for young people to gain experience and an understanding of the industry, as well as developing skills and gaining qualifications for future career development.

“It is important to support the local community by encouraging pupils from local schools and colleges to apply for the scheme.”

Amey also runs a special student project with St Birinus School in Didcot.

The scheme involves students from Year 12 visiting the Sutton Courtenay workshop six times a year and completing a project on one of the road or rail vehicles.

Mr Helliwell added: “In the current economic climate, engineering skills are a scarce resource. Attracting young people into the company not only supports the business, but provides a long-term future and career for young people.”

Amey recently launched a new technical apprenticeship programme that will be managed from the International Design Hub in Birmingham.

In conjunction with the Institute of Civil Engineers, Amey is looking to recruit new apprentices through working with local schools and colleges to identify 16-24-year-olds who would be interested in joining the programme.