Middlesbrough-based engineering company, Intelect have once again been highlighted for their successful apprenticeship programme, after being crowned regional winner of the SME Employer of the Year category at the prestigious North East National Apprenticeship Awards.

Former apprentice and now Intelect Director, John Thompson was thrilled to accept the award on behalf of the company and said: “Intelect are extremely honored to have receive this award and to be recognised for the work we do when it comes to developing our apprentices. Our apprenticeship programme is the backbone of our recruitment strategy, and I would highly recommend apprenticeships to all employers.”

Entering their 16th year, the National Apprenticeship Awards celebrates the achievements of both apprentices, and employers with the aim of championing apprenticeships across England to inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT sponsors this category in the National Apprenticeship Awards because it recognises the significant role of SME’s within apprenticeships across all occupations and sectors. All businesses and individuals experience the impact of technology and the importance of digital skills are just as critical for SMEs as for any large organisation.

The success comes in the same week that Intelect welcomed its first intake of apprentices for 2019, following a victorious year of other prestigious award wins, including the Apprenticeship Award at the North East Business Awards.

For over 20 years, apprenticeships have been at the heart of Intelect’s work force, encouraging growth and productivity in an industry that has seen an increased skills shortage over the years.

The businesses continued commitment to apprenticeships is championed by its four founding Director’s, all of whom were apprentice electricians in their early careers. They understand the value apprenticeships bring to the business, as well as the apprentice as an individual, as it gives them the chance to learn advanced skills through specialised on-the-job training.

Intelect has always operated a ‘Train to Retain’ ethos, and in the last five years has seen a retention rate of 91% of its apprentices. This year they welcomed their largest intake of apprentices, employing a total of eight new recruits across a range of sectors within the business, including Accountancy, Health and Safety and numerous Engineering roles.

As well as their commitment internally, Intelect continue to be an ambassador for apprenticeships within the wider community too, working with local schools and organisations to promote the opportunities our region has to offer. Most recently, they became a Corporate Partner to the High Tide Foundation, a charity that provides life changing work experience opportunities to local aspiring students.

Director, John Thompson added:

“We have continuously invested in the young people of the North East over the last 21 years, and in turn, it has allowed us to expand and grow our business in very demanding times. We are very much looking forward to representing the North East in the upcoming national finals”, he continued.

Intelect will now go on to represent the North East at the National Apprenticeship Awards Final in London on Wednesday 27th November, where they will be up against eight other regions from across England.