Robert Hope, an apprentice with Mitie, the FTSE 250 strategic outsourcer, has been honoured with the Scottish Decorators Federation (SDF) award for best second year apprentice. The award was presented to Robert at the 14th SDF annual convention on 22 March 2013.
Robert’s nomination by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) was down to his high level of commitment during college studies and his work at Mitie.
Following a six month period of unemployment, Robert gained help through a scheme called Training Opportunities in Lothian (TOiL) that supports disadvantaged young people into employment through paid work placements. With help from TOiL, Robert was placed with Mitie in late 2009.
Mitie has been involved in the TOiL programme since 2005 and currently has apprentices employed from the project in all four years of their apprenticeships.
Robert said: “I had seen a lot of my friends going for jobs but not getting them, so I was really pleased when I got the opportunity to learn a trade with Mitie through TOiL. I got the chance to learn skills in painting and decoration and gain qualifications whilst getting paid. Not every company offers apprenticeships like the one I’m on with Mitie.”
Contract manager Jamie Connolly saw the potential in Robert during his placement and recruited him as an apprentice painter & decorator as soon as his TOiL placement finished.
In September 2010, Robert enrolled at Edinburgh College through CITB Construction Skills and is currently undertaking his SVQ Level 3 in Painting and Decorating. Robert has shown commitment to his apprenticeship and has now enrolled on the optional third year of the Advanced Certificate.
Liz Hair, CITB apprenticeship officer, commented on the award:
“Robert has excelled throughout his apprenticeship, attending college and completing his first two years to a high standard.
“He is well liked by everyone he works with as they know he is reliable, respectful and is always willing to learn new skills.”
Kenny Robson, director at Mitie’s property services said:
“Congratulations to Robert for winning the award. It’s a credit to his positive attitude, hard work and determination.
“Mitie will work with TOiL again this year to find apprentices in the Edinburgh area. So far all the trainees we have had from the project, who completed their course, went on to full apprenticeships with Mitie.”
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For further information, contact:
Bell Pottinger
Rebecca Lloyd-Wright
D: +44 20 7861 2499
E: rlloydwright@bell-pottinger.co.uk
