A Staffordshire manufacturing firm is running a new competition to boost the quality of its apprentice intake.
KMF Precision Sheet Metal Manufacturing, based in Newcastle under Lyme, has tasked local schools to design, build and race Formula 24 cars to identify potential future engineers. It builds on the success of last year’s competition, when 1,700 pupils competed to design and create a prototype mechanical clock.
The prize is an opportunity for work experience at KMF with the option to apply for a rigorous advanced apprenticeship, supported by nationally recognised EAL qualifications.
KMF managing director, Gareth Higgins said, “It is vital that more young people consider a future in engineering and manufacturing. I am delighted that this competition has helped to engage students and parents, and helped them consider the subjects they wish to study in the future. We wanted the competition to be challenging and fun, but also to shine a light on the talented young people who could become apprentices and future top level engineers.”
Julia Chippendale, managing director of EAL, added, “Ensuring top quality learners apply for Apprenticeships is an issue that has been identified within the industry in the past. KMF’s innovative approach to recruitment has inspired young talent to consider engineering careers, helping them improve the pipeline of pupils applying to complete EAL qualifications, and ultimately an Apprenticeship, with the company.”
The first competition, to design a mechanical clock, involved 16 schools throughout Staffordshire, with pupils given a design brief and the mechanisms to carry out the project. In total 604 clocks were submitted and 14 finalists were invited to an awards ceremony hosted by The Gadget Show’s Jason Bradbury, held at Stoke City’s Britannia Stadium.
