The team at McCarrick Construction in Chester-le-Street is celebrating after winning the title of North East Apprentice Employer of the Year for the second time and then being Highly Commended at the National Apprenticeship Awards, beating off stiff competition in the SME category.
The company has consistently employed apprentices since its inception and over the years many have stayed and flourished there, moving on through the firm as they hone their skills and gain experience.
In recent years the apprentice programme has been formalised and McCarrick Construction was the first company in the North East to join the 5% Club, signifying their commitment to apprenticeships by employing apprentices in 5% or more of their workforce.
Matthew McCarrick, director of the family-owned firm said: “We’re delighted to receive these awards. We were up against some great companies, so to achieve Highly Commended at a national level is a great achievement.
“We’ve had apprentices with our company since 1953, and career progression opportunities are clear to see – we’ve got former apprentices who are managers, supervisors and even on the main board of directors. Supporting young people into apprenticeships is of great benefit to our community in North Durham and our tradition of doing this is one of the reasons we are such a respected employer locally.”
Proud of the tight-knit team at McCarrick Construction, Matthew cites the inclusion of a constant stream of apprentices as part of the reason staff turnover is so low:
“A diverse range of ages and life experiences helps make any workplace interesting and the company’s veteran craftsmen are keen to pass on their knowledge and good working practices directly to the up-and-coming generation of bricklayers, joiners, plumbers and construction professionals.”
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