Revving up to find apprentices

Motor-sport company Prodrive is looking for new apprentices. The Oxfordshire firm, which is set to move to larger premises, wants five apprentices to start in September. Competition for places will be tough, with the company receiving more than 1,500 applications in a typical year.

Apprentice supervisor Rob Alderman said: “We get interest from all over the country, but we would certainly like to see more applications from the local area. With the apprentices splitting their time between our headquarters in Banbury and Oxford & Cherwell Valley College (OCVC) in Bicester, it is more practical if they already live in the locality.”

Applicants who make the short-list will be invited for a day of assessment, covering theoretical and practical skills. Paul Hamlin of OCVC said: “Candidates may be asked to assemble part of a gearbox or work as a team to solve a particular problem. Prodrive is looking for people who can think on their feet and have not only the practical skills but, most importantly, the right attitude and a willingness to learn.” Prodrive employs more than 400 people in Banbury, and this figure could grow to 700 in the next two years, once its relocation to the former Hella lighting factory in Noral Way is complete. Anyone interested in the Prodrive scheme should contact Sue Young (syoung@ocvc.ac.uk).