One of the biggest housing associations in the Midlands region, Midland Heart is now keen to recruit a further eight apprentices across a range of its range of business areas.

Glenn Harris, Executive Director of Corporate Resources, said: “Apprenticeships are a great introduction to a range of careers. Our graduating cohort has chosen various paths within the company and we are extremely proud of their achievements.

“As a business we have learned a lot from these individuals and have revised the apprenticeship programme significantly to align not just with the future needs of the business, but to also help apprentices pursue a lifelong career. The introduction of the Apprenticeship Levy has also enabled the organisation to upskill existing employees and open the apprenticeship programme to those looking for a career change as there is no upper age limit.”

The organisation is now recruiting for a total of eight apprentices in development, finance, human resources, customer services, multi-grade, care and support and ranger services.

Previously, apprentices with Midland Heart followed the traditional day release route to learning, but the new cohort will also participate in additional activities to help with the transition into full-time employment.

“Learning is a journey,” added Glenn. “So, we have reshaped the programme to provide additional pastoral care, including the support of a mentor and coach. It is important we ensure an individual still receives support once they have completed their apprenticeship. All of this year’s graduates have access to our Money Advice Team; it’s quite a jump from an apprenticeship salary to a full wage.”

Midland Heart is currently supporting almost fifty apprenticeships which include new recruits into the business and upskilling its existing workforce. Applications are being accepted for the apprenticeship programme – go to www.midlandheart.org.uk/opportunities for more details.