Gestampt Tallent looks to local school for apprentices

A County Durham engineering company looking for new talent is giving local students the opportunity to compete for a job at the firm.

Gestampt Tallent Automotive in Newton Aycliffe is giving Year 11 pupils a series of challenges to complete, with the winners earning the chance of a job.

The students, from Woodhorn Academy, will have the opportunity to present their pitch to directors in the company’s boardroom.

Gestampt Tallent, who develop and produce parts for car-makers, are hoping to take on 18 new apprentices over the coming year.

The scheme is set up in association with Durham’s education and business partnership, is aimed at recruiting new apprentices to the company.

David Pearson, Gestamp Tallent’s training controller said: “We offer everyone in Year 11 the opportunity to apply, with tasks including purchase, design-based tasks and a presentation to directors in our boardroom.

“These young people are our future toolmakers, maintenance technicians and managers.

“This year we have 11 pupils taking part in the final stages and they will go through our full recruitment process.

“We have invested a lot of time and money in the scheme but it has been well worth it. We have recruited some very good young people as a result.”

Students will complete the work during National Apprentice week, working towards delivering a successful presentation on March 27.

The scheme is now in its fourth year and has seen eight students from Woodhorn Academy taken on during that time.

Woodhorn deputy headteacher Jonathan Lumb said: “The apprenticeship scheme we have developed with Gestamp Tallent is a fantastic opportunity for young people in Newton Aycliffe.

“I am delighted to see our students taking high quality apprenticeships within the local community.”

Skills body Semta will support the young apprentices in the business and has already helped the company put 400 employees through NVQ Level 2..

Semta chief executive Sarah Sillars said: “It is fantastic to see Woodham Academy working with Gestamp Tallent in such a proactive, meaningful way, leading to opportunities for employment.

“This initiative is exactly the sort of thing that should be showcased as best practice for other firms to consider.”

“It engages the youngsters, gives them, their teachers and parents a greater understanding of how exciting it is to work in the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering sector and gives the company the chance to find talent on their own doorstep.”

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