In fact, its very first apprentice, Gordon Green, retires soon after 50 years with the company.
The new apprentices will study at North Dorset Technical College, part of Yeovil College, as they learn on the job with the Wessex Group at its HQ in Shaftesbury.
Three of the apprentices will be working for Wessex Electricals and the fourth with Wessex Fire & Security; two of the group’s six companies.
Wessex Group’s staff recruitment policy requires an annual increase in skilled workers through the apprenticeship scheme.
The family company offers apprenticeships in a variety of careers and works in conjunction with Yeovil College and Southampton City College.
Joint managing director Simon Morgan, said, ‘When my father set up Wessex Electricals in 1963 he quickly took on an apprentice, and that policy continues.
‘In 2004 we agreed a strategic alliance with Yeovil College which secured a skills centre adjacent to our main offices in Shaftesbury.
‘This provides a modern environment for our students to achieve recognised qualifications in electrical installation, security and emergency systems installations and plumbing.
‘In addition, heating and ventilating installation training is provided in association with Southampton College.
‘Students normally take three or four years of day release learning to achieve an NVQ level 3 qualification.
‘At present, college costs are fully funded if the apprentice is under 19 years of age when they start.
‘Upon successful completion of the scheme, apprentices receive an industry skills card and are offered employment in one of the Group’s companies.’
The Wessex Group employs 400 people and plans a turnover in excess of £45m by 2018.
