Bradbury Group has partnered with Engineering University Technical College (UTC) Northern Lincolnshire to support a cohort of six new students. This unique arrangement provides sought after skills employers are looking for in their future workforce.
The new approach for Bradbury, enables young people from ages 13 to 18, often from disadvantaged backgrounds, to benefit greatly from a vocational education. By studying T levels (equivalent to A levels), a part of their education involves work placements and all students will be with Bradbury for 12 months when they sit their exams, after which there is an opportunity to apply for an apprenticeship.
Matthew Cooper, Head of Mathematics and Computer Science at the UTC said: “We’re very proud of our partnership with Bradbury Group who are an excellent local employer, ensuring they are growing their own workforce locally. I’m adamant there are few other schools that students leave with the level of employability skills they do with us. This is through meaningful partnership work to ensure placements and engagement is of great value.
Bradbury has a key understanding of our cohort, where over 40% of students receive free school meals, and actively advocate that no child’s future should depend on their circumstances. Their engagement through T Levels, placements and across the curriculum has been immeasurable. Outcomes in qualifications are incredibly important, but so are the skills students learn to navigate the next steps of success in their lives. A huge thank you for the development of the T level placement programme and engagement, which is proving highly effective”
Jennifer Vincent, Director of Business Development at Engineering UTC Northern Lincolnshire added: “What Bradbury is doing is truly outstanding. The programme is giving our students valuable insights into the world of work through personalised training and support from the whole team. I’m particularly impressed by the professionalism and attention to detail, from the thoughtfully prepared goodie bags with items like a tape measure and water bottle, to the personalised high-vis vests branded with ‘Youth Engineering,’ and the well organised programme materials.”
As well as learning about the door building manufacturing process the students will also be actively involved in an exciting project to transform a space within the factory into an operational training centre, They will be responsible for the design, the painting and overall development of the project, not only giving them practical hands on experience but also allowing them to gain valuable project management skills, with the added reward of seeing their work come to life in a tangible, lasting way.
Julia Turner, People Development and Wellbeing Lead, Bradbury Group explained: “This new approach means that when we potentially take engineering and manufacturing students on as apprentices, they come to us with a valuable level of maturity and importantly, a qualification in engineering. This not only supports the local community, but by combining technical, practical and academic learning, we are giving young people hands-on experience in a real working environment. This really sets them up for the world of work, potentially giving them an opportunity to be employed with a view to them being our Bradbury stars of the future.”
The students have been struck by the environment here. One student shared, “Everyone I’ve met at Bradbury Group has been kind and welcoming.” Another said, “The staff show a lot of passion, and I’m happy to be working among them.”
A comprehensive induction programme included a full understanding of the company, health and safety training, shopfloor safety sessions and tool handling. They also met and presented to our Senior Leadership Team, participated in a workplace values and work ethic workshop, and enjoyed lunch with our CEO, Tom Cornell.
With over 30 years of technical knowledge and experience in the industry, Bradbury are experts in developing innovative physical security solutions for global infrastructure and businesses.
Bradbury has been investing in youth engineering for over a decade, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to developing future talent. This dedication took a significant step forward in 2014 with the founding of Youth Engineering Scunthorpe, a charitable enterprise established by founder Tim Strawson, aimed at creating opportunities for young people through vocational pathways.
Today, that investment is bearing fruit. In addition to the six UTC students, two degree apprentices are currently pursuing their qualifications through Sheffield Hallam University; two apprentices are studying Level 3 engineering and design; and two employees in the procurement team are being supported by Bradbury as they work towards their CIPs Level 4 apprenticeship. This progression highlights Bradbury’s ongoing support for education, skills development, and long-term career growth.
Find out more about career opportunities at Bradbury Group: bradbury-group.com/whybradbury
