Sheffield Forgemasters (www.sheffieldforgemasters.com) has announced that it will recruit 33 apprentices this summer — its largest single intake so far.

On offer will be fully paid four-year apprenticeships, and the company will adopt all new Government-approved training standards, funding and assessment plans.

Rick Frankeiss, group training manager, said: “The people we take on this year will be fundamental to the future of Sheffield Forgemasters, as we plan ahead and look at succession and retirements within our operations.

“It is a massive commitment by the company in terms of wages, training fees and mentoring time, but it is also an investment for the long term.

“The apprenticeships will require us to adopt entirely new systems for training, in line with guidelines and structures established by the Institute for Apprenticeships in London, including more-detailed mentoring and end-point assessment for the first time.

"We have to grow our own skills base because our work is unique, and we are looking for trainees in such jobs as pattern making, machining, foundry work, maintenance roles, welding, fitting and R&D.”

Sheffield Forgemasters has been a staunch champion of apprenticeships since a management buy-out in 2005, and chief executive Graham Honeyman is also chair of the Engineering and Manufacturing Route Panel at the Institute for Apprenticeships.

Mr Frankeiss added: “We expect any candidates to be prepared for a rigorous selection process, with shortlisting followed by an assessment centre and then a final interview.

"We look for people who demonstrate a positive attitude and are attentive and willing to learn.”