Trusted Energy Solutions Bucking the Apprenticeship Levy Trend

Last year the Department for Education revealed astonishing statistics that since the introduction of the apprenticeship levy in April 2017, the number of people starting apprenticeships in the UK dropped by a shocking 61%. The levy was labelled “controversial” by many, but there was one company willing to buck the trend.

Local energy company, Trusted Energy Solutions, is based at Sherwood Energy Park in Ollerton. As well as a professional, experienced and technical team of 7 people who have undergone extensive training and certifications, the company has recently employed 2 new apprentices from Mansfield’s West Nottinghamshire College.

Gina Patrick, 19, is studying Accountancy at West Nottinghamshire College, working towards her AAT Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting. She joined Trusted Energy Solutions as an Accountant Apprentice in April 2018. Her daily work includes processing invoices, management accounts and has quickly expanded into coordinating the business’ service and maintenance activities. Gina says, “Joining Trusted Energy Solutions has given me invaluable exposure to the world of work, and what I have learned at this company has given me experience I couldn’t have gained from the classroom alone.”

Jacob March, 17, joined the team in September as an Apprentice Heating Engineer. Jacob is completing Level 2 Plumbing at West Nottinghamshire College and explains he is already reaping the benefits of learning on the job. He explains, “It can be really tricky to leave school and fall into an apprenticeship. I’m so lucky to have been given this opportunity.” 

Mark Roper, CEO of Trusted Energy Solutions, comments, “Whilst many larger businesses grumbled at the introduction of the new apprenticeship levy and how it was ‘just another business tax’, we are experiencing a very positive business impact. Gina and Jacob are extremely fast learners and are both very efficient at what they do. We are enabling these bright students to embark on the next stage in their career. After seeing how well they have already developed in their roles, and not only the progression they have made, we certainly won’t be shying away from taking on more apprentices going forward. We are thrilled to provide such a great opportunity for local talent.”