Manchester-based property developer Beech Holdings will take on six more apprentices this year as it continues with its ambitious growth plans.

The residential developer, which specialises in bringing old, unloved buildings back to life already has announced that six new apprentices are set to be hired within the next six months.

This will bring the company’s staff numbers to more than 85 and follows on from the Government commitment to have three million apprentices working for companies across the country by 2020.

Founder Stephen Beech, said: “It’s vital that we nurture the young talent across the region and embed them within what is a strong family orientated culture that provides both job security and rewarding careers.

“Joel Hughes was the first success story on our apprenticeship scheme. He’s 22 years old and setting a fantastic example to our other apprentices, having worked his way up in the maintenance team to become a full-time employee after two years of hands-on learning.”

Charlie Griesbach, 17, has recently embarked on a design apprenticeship and is involved in surveying, measuring and drawing up.

He said: “Beech Holdings is a great place to work, it’s very family orientated and everyone is so welcoming. Every day I learn something new.”

Also on the books are Luke Davidson, 17, also in the design department and Leon Chamberlain, 18, in the construction department.

Joel Hughs, said: “I felt part of the team straight away and we regularly sit down and talk about things.

“Through getting the apprenticeship I have also passed my electrical exams and started doing driving lessons, sponsored by the company.”

Maintenance manager and apprentice mentor Steve Gee said: “We can take someone on right from school and they aren’t just being taught about maintenance but get to work in all areas of the business.

“They also learn a few life skills as well along the way.”

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