MARIA Seabright, finance and HR manager at Greendale Construction, based in Poole, explains how both apprentices and the company benefit.

“The training and apprenticeship schemes that Greendale adopts teach our trainees the philosophy and way in which Greendale operates, so the apprentices/trainees understand early on how the company operates and are encouraged to bring ideas and innovations to the table.

“We train them in the Greendale way – that’s why it helps the business.

“Over 40 per cent of our current workforce originally trained as apprentices with the company, with some having now reached Senior Site Management level.”

Maria said that the firm invested in a host of skills and qualifications, including NVQs, City and Guilds and a host of industry qualifications, and all had a value to the business.

She added: “Firstly, we have to meet statutory requirements. Secondly, investment in training is paramount for good business.

“Any successful company needs fully trained and qualified staff to add value and improve competitiveness.”