3 things to expect from your apprenticeship at Zentia

By Nicky Gallagher, Head of HR

Here at Zentia, we believe that our people are our greatest asset. That belief underpins every decision we make in our business. It’s why we invest so heavily in people development, helping our people develop their skills and experience so that they can progress their careers and drive Zentia to new heights – a real win-win for our business.

It’s also why we’re so committed to apprenticeships.

 

We launched our Apprenticeship Scheme in 2021. We recruited five apprentices at that time, in functions ranging from mechanical engineering to health and safety – and it’s been a huge success!

So much so that we’re now committed to increasing the number of apprentices in our business year on year.

We’re partnering with Gateshead College and Gateshead Council to support and promote apprenticeships in the future. Not only is it great for Zentia, it’s also important for the North East to continue developing these critical manufacturing skills.

So, what can you expect when you accept an apprenticeship at Zentia? We’ve put together our top three things to expect – keep reading to learn more.

Three things to expect when you take an apprenticeship at Zentia

1. A supportive team

Here at Zentia, we’re first and foremost a team! We share our knowledge and experience with others, going above and beyond to help our colleagues and deliver projects on time.

When you join Zentia, you’ll work with generous and helpful people. In fact, some of them are former apprentices themselves, so they know exactly what you’re experiencing. Some of our engineers have been with us for over 30 years and they’re still going strong.

No matter what you’re working on, never be afraid to ask questions – somebody will always be happy to help.

2. Practical and classroom learning

As an apprentice at Zentia, you’ll spend the vast majority of your time in one of our two factories on Team Valley: our mineral tile factory on Kingsway South, known as TV2, or our ceiling grid factory on Dukesway, known as TV1.

No matter where you work, and no matter what kind of apprenticeship you take, you’ll get practical, hands-on training from your direct supervisor and your wider team.

You won’t miss out on classroom learning, either, with some apprentices requiring one day each week allocated to study at your college.

3. Exciting opportunities

Whether you spend your apprenticeship at Zentia on the factory floor or in an office, your apprenticeship will give you professional and personal opportunities you can’t even imagine.

You’ll make new friends, learn new skills, and get the kind of experience in the workplace that you just can’t get from a classroom alone.

And, even if you decide that your apprenticeship isn’t in the right field for you, you’ll still walk away with experiences and relationships that will help you find your next role.

You’re interested in an apprenticeship at Zentia. So, what’s next?

There are three apprenticeships up for grabs at Zentia – click here to learn more about the roles available and how you can apply.

If you’ve got a few questions, we’re always happy to help. Email ukhr@zentia.com and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

We hope to see you soon!