Employers needed to update general welder apprenticeship

The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (@IFATEched) and the Welding Institute (@WeldingInst) are looking for employers to help shape future training.

They are needed to join an employer ‘trailblazer’ group that will review the level 2 general welder apprenticeship.

Welding is a way to make high strength joints between two or more parts. They for example produce components for cars, ships, trains, bridges and buildings. Skilled, qualified, and professionally certified general welders can work anywhere in the world and provide services in harshest of environments.

There is high demand for them across industry and Lois Appleyard, professional membership and accreditation manager at the Welding Institute, said:

“It’s vital that we ensure this apprenticeship continues to meet all the latest skills needs and regulations. As a trailblazer, you can play an important role with helping apprentices get the most from their training and supporting them onto long and successful careers.”

Jonathan Mitchell, deputy director for the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education, said:

“General welding is highly valued right across industry. It’s so important that apprentices learn all the right knowledge, skills and behaviours and we rely on our trailblazer employers to tell us what they should be. This is a wonderful opportunity to help shape future training.”

We’re looking for employers that:

• Will represent general welders and who are likely to use the apprenticeship
• are currently working in the occupation or have recent experience
• have the capacity to attend meetings and complete the work
• will provide a good mix of large and small employers that reflect the make-up of the occupation across England.

As part of the process, the trailblazer group will be expected to:

• seek advice and guidance from apprentices, training providers, end-point assessment organisations and professional bodies
• not have an admission or membership fee

Further details can be found under the trailblazer group guidance section of the Institute website.