EN:Able Futures CIC hails apprenticeship milestone

A construction and built environment-focused community interest company is celebrating an apprenticeship milestone.

EN:Able Futures CIC has made its first placement since launching its Flexi-Job Apprenticeship Service in the region.

Jack Gilbert, from Consett, has joined Northumberland-based Inside Contracting, as a level two floor laying apprentice.

The 18-year-old is spending one day a week at Derwentside College as part of his development.

A Flexi-Job apprenticeship is an alternative to the traditional model, with apprenticeships having been designed to ensure sectors and occupations, where short-term contracts or other non-standard employment models are the norm, can access the benefits of apprenticeships.

Jack said: “I was working as a labourer for a flooring company doing basic duties, and I saw this as a great opportunity to get a trade, be more qualified and earn more money.

“I’m learning how to fit flooring using the correct safety measures at college, and am really enjoying putting the theory into practice in my day-to-day role.”

Julie Deeley, EN:Able Futures’ director of operations, said: “We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Jack onto our scheme.

“Level two floor laying is also a completely new apprenticeship offering for us, which goes to show the growing demand and scope for Flexi-Job Apprenticeships.

“We are looking forward to developing further relationships with Derwentside College, and are currently busy recruiting for a further five apprentices in varying positions.”

Tom Johnson, Inside Contracting operations manager, added: “We welcome Jack on board as we look to the future, working with EN:Able Futures and Derwentside College to create a sustainable business that invests in the training of its people.”