Henry Smith MP has joined Energy Minister Lord Bourne to visit EDF Energy in Crawley to meet with their smart metering apprentices on Monday 14th March, as part of National Apprenticeship Week (14th to 18th March).
 
Henry said;
 
“I was grateful for the opportunity to visit EDF Energy and learn more about their apprenticeship programme.
 
“It was insightful to speak with some of EDF Energy’s apprentices, based in Crawley, about the work they do and the experience they gain.
 
“It’s because of schemes like this that the number of people starting apprenticeships in Crawley has risen to almost 4,200 since 2010. While I hosted the Crawley Apprenticeship & Jobs Fair earlier in the month I’m well aware that there is more to be done.
 
“Apprenticeships provide vital opportunities for young people which is why I’m pleased to support the Government’s commitment to create three million apprenticeships by 2020.”
 
EDF Energy has 230 apprentices across the company. Their year-long smart metering apprenticeship scheme equips apprentices with the technical and customer service skills, confidence and qualifications required to join the energy industry’s next generation. Graduates enter EDF Energy as meter operatives.
 
The Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Climate Change, Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth, commented;
 
“It’s fantastic to meet young people here in Crawley who are so focused and committed to a future in the energy sector with EDF Energy.
 
“As we start Apprenticeship Week 2016 it’s becoming increasingly clear that many people now see apprenticeships as a route to a successful and rewarding career. It’s also great to see companies like EDF Energy continuing to offer apprenticeships so that the future workforce are equipped with the skills, confidence and qualifications required to join the energy industry’s next generation.”