We have just launched a Senior Apprentice Scheme – at its most basic this sees our more experienced apprentices undertaking an NTET Competency Assessment (tested to the same level as adults) before being allowed to teach other apprentices more about driving on miniature engines. This is a big step forward and has taken lots of work behind the scenes.
Many thanks to Shaun Lenton from OneBroker who has worked tirelessly to secure insurance coverage for this type of activity.
Oliver Maunder passed his competency assessment last year; two more apprentices have joined his ranks – congratulations to Molly Davies and Jess Horsler for passing their NTET Competency Assessments at Eastnor Castle.
It’s really refreshing to have some young ladies as role models to other girls with an interest in steam. The SAC is open to everyone, and we’re really proud that of the first three apprentices to have passed their competency assessment, two are ladies. We also have several more apprentices working on their practical skills and steam theory to hopefully take the assessment soon.
We will be trialling the model this summer and, assuming it is successful, hope to take on another intake of recruits next year. I’d like to also give a huge shout out to the apprentices themselves, who have all been helping to shape the scheme over the winter. The team was out at the Hertfordshire Steam Rally and everyone worked together to share their experience with others.
