SCHOOL leavers wishing to avoid university debt are invited to consider applying for an industry-leading apprenticeship scheme in Chipping Sodbury.

Heavy building materials company Handon UK is seeking 11 apprentices for their Leadership, Education and Development (LEAD) programme, which offers the first steps towards a career in the minerals sector.

One of the vacancies will be in Chipping Sodbury, and the successful applicant will be able to secure valuable industry qualifications during their apprenticeship.

To apply for the three year programme, which combines practical hands on experience with a distance-learning Foundation degree in Minerals Extractive Technology from the University of Derby, would-be apprentices need a minimum of two A levels, five GCSEs and a full driving licence.  

In return the LEAD trainee supervisors will receive a salary as well as a fully-funded degree programme.   

Karen Wright, Hanson’s learning and development manager, said: “Our LEAD programme, first launched in 2012, has proved to be an ideal launching pad for a successful career.

“We now have former LEAD programme participants employed across the business in a diverse range of roles from cement process engineer and kiln production engineer to assistant quarry manager.

“Earning while you learn is a fast-track way of gaining experience and qualifications without accumulating the debt now associated with traditional university courses.

“Plus, on completion, you have a ready-made career with Hanson, on which you are already a few rungs up the ladder.”   

Fiona Bradshaw, who is in her first year of the LEAD programme, added: “I have really enjoyed the combination of site experience and self-development that forms the basis of the programme and value the support received from my mentor and from others across the business.

“It’s great to know that on finishing LEAD, not only will I have a  Foundation degree and no debt, but I will also have three years’ of work under my belt – plus the option to secure a BSc in Minerals Management, also funded by Hanson.”

The closing date for applications is noon on March, 17.

Shortlisted candidates will have the chance to visit Chipping Sodbury on a familiarisation insight day as part of the recruitment process.

For more details on the application process, visit the company website here.