Bradford MP, David Ward, has visited air management expert Mansfield Pollard to help promote its successful apprenticeship programme, marking National Apprenticeship Week and the 2.1million

Mr Ward met managing director Joanna Robinson and the firm’s apprentices at its headquarters on Parry Lane to listen to their experiences and to learn more about how the company is helping to develop their careers with its in-house training scheme.

Mansfield Pollard runs formal apprenticeships through Building Engineering Services Training (BEST) in Refrigeration, Electrical Engineering and Fabrication & Welding and currently has six youngsters taking advantage of the scheme.

The company also invests heavily in its current workforce by promoting lifelong learning and has teamed up with Eden Training Solutions to provide further training opportunities such as NVQ levels 2 and 3 in a range of courses.

Eden Training Solutions works in partnership with employers in a variety of occupational sectors and deliver industry recognised training including work based QCF qualifications, apprenticeships and specialist training programmes.

MP David Ward said: 'I'm very supportive of Mansfield Pollard’s apprenticeship scheme as it provides training and mentoring in order to increase skills and knowledge in the manufacturing industry. Not only do the trainees have a brilliant opportunity to earn invaluable experience in the work place but they can enjoy a long and fulfilling career.'

Joanna Robinson said; 'Mansfield Pollard has invested significant efforts to establish itself as an employer of choice in Bradford but we need the help of other stakeholders such as local and national Government if we are to optimise the employment benefits which we can provide for the local community.'

Pictured L to R: MP David Ward, apprentice Kyle Lyman and Joanna Robinson