Pickfords has been recognised in the prestigious Centrica Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer list, which is compiled annually by the National Apprenticeship Service and recognises excellence in businesses that employ apprentices.

The list was announced at the National Apprenticeship Awards, which took place on 20 January at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London.

After a tough selection process, the most exceptional apprenticeship employers from all the National Apprenticeship Awards employer categories went forward to feature in the list, which showcases the breadth of employers who now offer apprenticeships.

Pickfords began its apprentice scheme in 2015 with a view to filling a skills gap for both HGV drivers and office-based staff. Working with recruitment company People Plus Group Ltd, Mark Taylor developed the scheme to create opportunities for young people across the country. For many, it was a first job role which provided coaching and training and lead to a professional qualification.

Commenting on the company’s entry in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer list, Mark Taylor, Network Director at Pickfords said, “We are delighted to be recognised on the Centrica Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer list and to be voted ‘Highly Commended’ in the National Apprenticeship Awards. This is truly a testament to the hard work and dedication of our HR and management teams, our recruitment partner People Plus Group Ltd, and of course our wonderful apprentices themselves. My sincere thanks to all involved.”

Photo; From left to right: Sue Husband, Director of the National Apprentice Service; Samantha Lee, Head of Recruitment at Bond Dickinson LLP (winner), Mark Taylor, Network Director at Pickfords, Shelley Ferringo, Head of HR and Recruitment at Softcat (Highly Commended), Mike Percival, Global Head of Manufacturing and Engineering at Rolls Royce (award sponsor).