Conscious of the need to attract young people into the logistics industry and offer them careers with good long-term prospects, NFT Distribution introduced a structured Modern Apprenticeship programme in 2004.
Rather than just offering people a job, NFT aims to become an employer of choice by providing something different. Consequently we have developed several Apprenticeships that give young people the opportunity to learn about all aspects of our business. Taking the route of the Transport Apprenticeship will mean that by the age of 21, when young people are eligible to take their LGV Class C+E licence, our apprentices will have three different career pathways open to them - warehousing, working in the traffic office and driving - and a number of qualifications to support them.
Then first candidate recruited via the scheme was Jemma Smiddy, who proved to be quite a surprise. In a largely male-dominated environment, 21 year old Jemma didn't fit the expected profile, but she has proved to be a real asset to the company. "Jemma has the potential to develop within the company, and is personally motivated to achieve with us," said NFT's HR Manager. "Since she started with NFT at the Crick depot, she has progressed within the Traffic Office and now holds the role of Senior Traffic Assistant."
Jemma, whose entire family works in the logistics sector, is also keen to progress within the industry. She comments "I spotted this opportunity whilst working in a doctor's surgery. It appealed to me instantly as it will give me the chance to gain my LGV licence, which is something I have always wanted to do. I have enjoyed studying for a qualification that is linked to the job I do as it gave me a broader understanding and enabled me to put into practice what I learnt. I'm at the end of my apprenticeship now, and have a wide range of experience and two nationally recognised NVQ qualifications".
NFT also offers Modern Apprenticeships in Warehousing, Customer Services and Business Administration, working with local organisations to ensure employees are able to work through the NVQ qualification process in conjunction with their daily tasks.
Anyone who is interested in applying for a Modern Apprenticeship with NFT should register their CV via the Jobs and Careers section of the website.
