In a bid to address the 10.8% unemployment rate in the North East region of the UK, the Port of Tyne plans to more than treble its apprenticeships in 2013.
In addition to the traditional engineering apprenticeships, the port will recruit 13 extra young people in roles in IT, security, warehousing, business administration, marketing, civil engineering, accountancy and cargo operations.
The port hopes the record number of apprentices will help improve young people’s chances of employment across the sector. A total of 18 apprentices will be with the port at any one time for between two and four years, during which time they will work towards qualifications and gain valuable on-the-job training.
Andrew Moffat, CEO, Port of Tyne, said: “Investing in our people and developing a highly skilled workforce is the key to future success. As a major employer we’re committed to helping more young people in the area get a foot on the ladder to work.”
He added: “Apprenticeships seem the best way to do this and we are very pleased that we will be able to take on 13 further apprentices this year who will be learning about the world of work and the opportunities there may be for them in the future whether with the port or elsewhere.”
The port has appointed South Tyneside College as its training provider.
