Hounslow Highways invests in local young people

Hounslow Highways has recruited the first group of young apprentices who will be working on the London Borough of Hounslow Highways PFI contract, developing their career and contributing to their borough along the way.

Eight apprentices have joined the Environmental Services Team and are receiving formal academic training modules from a London college, in the processes and skills of street cleanliness and environmental management. A further two young people have joined Hounslow Highways training as apprentices in the highway maintenance and repair field. Their training is provided by a sister company to Hounslow Highways as part of the UK training approach.

Councillor Colin Ellar and Councillor Steve Curran met recently with the 18-24 year old team members at Jubilee House depot and heard about their training and the on the job experience they are receiving with their older colleagues.

The practical and academic experience they receive is being delivered through an accredited training programme and will result in them receiving NVQ Level 2 certificates. On completion of their training they will continue their careers in Hounslow Highways, hopefully developing their skills and further qualifications as they progress.

Hounslow Highways Service Director Rob Gillespie said, “Bringing new young people into our industry and our business is extremely important. In addition, it has been a goal for us from day one to ensure that there are new employment opportunities for young people in the borough. This programme gives experience and learning in a work environment and we welcome all our apprentices to the Hounslow Highways team.”

Cllr Ellar said: “This is a great opportunity for local youngsters to get on the career ladder with a progressive company like Hounslow Highways.  Hounslow Highways is setting a great example for other employers to recognise the potential of Hounslow youngsters.”

Hounslow Highways will continue to work with educational and career groups to develop apprenticeships and other opportunities within the borough.