VAUXHALL will welcome new apprentices at its Ellesmere Port plant.
The apprentices will begin the scheme in September.
Plant director Tony Francavilla said: “Manufacturing is pivotal to the future of the UK’s economy.
“In recent years we have been determined to change the perceived image of manufacturing by focusing on raising the career opportunities within the automotive manufacturing sector.
“Recruiting and investing in apprentices is vital.”
The Vauxhall Motors Apprentice Scheme operates in conjunction with West Cheshire College, which delivers the Advanced Engineering Apprenticeship, and has been running for more than 40 years.
Typically the first year of the apprenticeship is full-time at West Cheshire College, then the remainder is spent at Vauxhall with day release to the college.
Sara Mogel, principal at West Cheshire College, said: “We have worked closely with Vauxhall for many years helping them to develop a multi-skilled flexible workforce through the apprenticeship scheme.
“As a vocational college we recognise that there is a skills shortage across the region in engineering and manufacturing.
“We have addressed this by investing millions into a state-of-the-art new campus in Chester that young people and employers can access and it’s fantastic news for the industry and for young people that Vauxhall are recruiting more apprentices.”
Curtis Stokes, a fourth year apprentice working in Vauxhall’s general assembly unit, said: “Getting hands on experience from such a large company has been a hugely beneficial and enjoyable experience.
“It has opened my eyes to the world of work, provided me with the skills required for furthering my career and definitely made the academic side of the programme easier.”
